We’re looking forward to introducing you to Autumn Chapman. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Autumn, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
I’m being called to host social events that are alcohol free. In the past, I hosted high attendance events, but alcohol was a huge component because my demographic was predominantly college students.
I never really liked all the chaos and liability that came from alcoholic events, but I was afraid that if I took the alcohol away, people would not want to show up.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Autumn, the creator of R&B and Friends, an alcohol-free nightlife experience built for people who want social experiences without alcohol.
I’ve always loved curating moments that bring people together, and after years of watching nightlife revolve around alcohol, I wanted to create a space where community, connection, and good energy come first.
My events blend nostalgic R&B, premium craft mocktails, and a wellness-minded atmosphere that lets people actually remember the night and the people they meet. I’m currently building this into a full movement in Houston; one that proves you don’t need a drink in your hand to have an unforgettable time.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
I would say my husband. My husband has been my biggest cheerleader since we met back in 10th grade. He knows me better than anyone and often sees things about me before I see them.
He is very intentional about making me see myself through his eyes, and showing me that I can do anything I put my mind to, with the help of Jesus Christ.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
I would say the fear of not being liked. That often defined everything about my life, including my thoughts, actions, and choices. It prompted me to be a very big people pleaser and often times put myself at a disadvantage just to make sure others would like and appreciate me.
But there eventually came a point in time where I had to face the music and realize that not everyone was going to like me; and that’s okay. I still strive to help and support others, but I make sure to balance it with taking care of myself as well, and not being so upset when someone doesn’t appreciate me for the person that I am.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The biggest lies that my industry tells itself is that people can’t have fun without alcohol, and they are “boring” for not drinking.
There have been so many times when I’ve gone out, and I’ve had more fun being sober than I would have with a ton of alcohol in my system. And the funny thing is, I meet more and more people who tell me that they don’t need alcohol to have a good time. In fact, some of them PREFER to not be in environments with alcohol.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope that people talk about how I tried to put out kindness in a world that has become so dark and isolating. I have often times considered my kindness for weakness, but I’m slowly realizing that it’s not a weakness at all; it’s one of my biggest strengths.
I have gone through a lot over the course of my life, and some of the things I’ve gone through really could have changed me for the worse. But I have consistently maintained trying to put good out into the world, and I am very proud of that.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rnbandfriends
