melanie masarin & ghia
From Glossier to Botanical Beverages
we're creating space for the brains behind the brands we love, and asking good questions along the way. the result is a deep dive into the how and why of brand-building, from blueprints to launch day, customers as community and the detours in between. big lessons, easy listening.
In this episode of Read Receipt, we are excited to welcome Melanie Masarin, the founder and CEO of Ghia. Melanie's journey began with a career in investment banking, followed by significant roles at Dig Inn and Glossier. Her frustration with the lack of sophisticated non-alcoholic options in social settings inspired her to create Ghia, a brand offering aperitivo-inspired beverages made entirely from botanical extracts. Join us as Melanie shares the inspiration behind Ghia, the challenges of product development, and how she launched her brand during a global pandemic.
Tune in to discover how Melanie's vision for a social drink without alcohol has reshaped the beverage industry.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy the conversation!
the Show Notes
Summary:
Melanie Masarin, founder and CEO of Ghia, shares her inspiring journey from a career in investment banking and roles at Dig Inn and Glossier to creating a botanical beverage brand. Ghia offers aperitivo-inspired drinks made entirely from botanical extracts, designed to provide a sophisticated alternative to alcohol. Melanie discusses the evolution of Ghia, the importance of creating a non-alcoholic beverage that doesn't compromise on taste, and the challenges of launching a brand during the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation explores her entrepreneurial experiences, the development of Ghia's products, and her vision for the future.
Keywords:
non-alcoholic beverages, entrepreneurship, brand building, botanical extracts, Ghia, Melanie Masarin
Takeaways:
- Melanie Masarin’s journey from banking and Glossier to founding Ghia is driven by a passion for creating sophisticated, non-alcoholic beverages.
- Ghia focuses on providing high-quality, botanical-based aperitifs that promote socializing without alcohol.
- Building a brand involves understanding market needs, listening to customer feedback, and maintaining a clear vision.
- The COVID-19 pandemic presented unique challenges but also opportunities for brands like Ghia to adapt and thrive.
- Melanie’s dedication to innovative beverage formulations and sophisticated experiences drives the success of Ghia.
Sound Bites:
- "Ghia started as a way to create sophisticated, non-alcoholic beverages that combine botanical extracts and a rich social experience."
- "Our goal is to provide high-quality, non-alcoholic aperitifs that people can trust and enjoy."
- "Building a brand requires understanding market needs and staying true to your vision."
- "The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of adaptability and innovation in business."
- "Ghia is about providing sophisticated, non-alcoholic beverage solutions that people can trust and feel confident using."
Chapters:
00:00 - Melanie’s Background and Journey-
Melanie introduces herself and shares her journey from investment banking and Glossier to founding Ghia.
08:01 - The Inspiration Behind Ghia-
Melanie discusses the personal and professional experiences that inspired her to create Ghia and the early days of the brand.
12:30 - Transitioning from Investment Banking to Beverage Entrepreneurship-
Melanie explains her transition from banking and Glossier to starting a non-alcoholic beverage brand and the lessons learned.
23:17 - The Importance of Botanical Extracts and Non-Alcoholic Options-
The conversation delves into how Ghia emphasizes botanical extracts and sophisticated non-alcoholic options in its products.
25:30 - Challenges and Opportunities During the Pandemic-
Melanie talks about the challenges of pivoting during the COVID-19 pandemic and the opportunities it presented.
27:26 - Commitment to Quality and Innovation-
Melanie highlights Ghia’s dedication to creating high-quality, sophisticated non-alcoholic beverages.
31:23 - Building a Strong Brand Identity-
The discussion explores the importance of a strong brand identity and connecting with consumers authentically.
36:02 - The Vision for Ghia-
Melanie shares her vision for the future of Ghia and her goals for the brand.
47:37 - Patience and Persistence in Entrepreneurship-
Melanie emphasizes the need for patience and persistence in achieving long-term success.
51:43 - Final Thoughts and Insights-
Melanie wraps up the conversation with final thoughts and valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.