Exploring the world of craft beverages one glass at a time.
Learn more about Julie!
Hello. My name is Julie Kovaleski and I am the owner of Craft Beer Babe, LLC. I am a Certified Cicerone and crafter of handmade gifts. You can find my various candle and yarn collections here in my online store. I also work with other organizations and lead beer, cider & wine pairing parties & dinners.
Taking my passion of beer + candles and combining them, CBB was born after I made candles for Weyerbacher Brewing Co. in PA! I'm a candle lady on a mission to make safer candles in elements of packaging we may otherwise throw away.
I love making custom orders for parties, weddings, graduations and more.
How did your business come to exist?
I started my business when my sister started getting headaches when I burned candles at home. I started doing research and found out there are a lot of toxic chemicals in candles in general. I knew I could make a better product. After experimenting and giving my candles out as gifts, friends and family encouraged me to start selling them. Then my candles business, Craft Beer Babe was born!
What are your thoughts about Colorado’s creative scene for artists, designers, crafters, makers, and/or small businesses?
The scene in Colorado for local and handmade products is great. I think there is a lot of support from customers and businesses who host pop up markets alike. I just wish some large vendor events charged less or structured their fees a little differently. Some do not favor small businesses at all. But overall, I've had a handful of great experiences in Colorado, networking with other small business owners and talented artists.
What do you like to do outside of work?
When I am not working, I like to travel, hike and indulge in the amazing outdoor activities Colorado has to offer and I like being around animals. I am hoping to start volunteering at my local humane society soon. I also like trying new restaurants and breweries.
What is your biggest challenge?
My biggest challenge is making an affordable candle others will choose over a big box retailer. My candles are a much higher quality but it's a very saturated market and a lot of candles on the current market are not made well. I continue to educate others about this and am extremely passionate about it.
Where do you find inspiration?
I look for inspiration in nature, the art in mixology & cooking and the traditions in other cultures. I think my favorite memories have been sipping a cocktail or having a meal with family or friends and since scent is very much tied to memory, I try to tap into these emotions many of us share.
Get in Touch with Julie
Website: https://www.craftbeer-babe.com
Facebook: Craft Beer Babe
Instagram: @craftbeer_babe
Email: cheers@craftbeer-babe.com
If you are a local artist/crafter/maker/indie business owner and would like to be featured on our blog, please fill out this form or contact Ashley at ashley@westandmainhomes.com with questions...we can't wait to learn all about you!