Grown Folks, a unique hard seltzer drink, is a testament to the power of community and cultural heritage. Its founder, Danica Dias, gathered inspiration for her creation from her childhood and family.
“When we were kids,” Dias reminisces, “There was a grown folks table and kids’ table. The adults were so happy and free when drinking, eating, and gathering. This cultural tradition of togetherness and freedom is the essence of Grown Folks.”
The culture is present in every sip of Grown Folks. The hard seltzer is made with natural fruit juices and comes in key lime, ambrosia, and peach cobbler flavors, all reminiscent of soul food recipes of the Dias family.
“My maternal grandmother is my Louisiana family, and my dad’s side is Portuguese, from Cape Verde.”
It Truly Takes A Village
Dias talks about her village, which consisted of maternal grandmothers who helped raise the entrepreneur and her sisters while their parents worked.
“One grandma lived with us full-time for many years, and our other grandma cared for us during the summer and weekends. They did not have careers like you and I do, but they were trailblazers, creators, and cooks. They taught me a great deal about family, life, and business. Both of my grandmothers have passed away, but my mom, sisters, niece, and cousin all continue to help me with this business every day. That was taught to us by our grandmothers: Lean on family.”
Dias planned to study law after graduating from UCLA but decided to go into hospitality instead. “I’ve worked in the food and beverage industry since I was 15.”
Starting as a hostess, the Grown Folks founder worked in restaurants, bars, nightclubs and everything in the food and beverage industry, including the front and back of the house. She became a top sales performer for large and small CPG brands.
Then, the pandemic hit, and she decided to start her own business.
By Stephanie Teasley
