Meet the Maker: Julie Kovaleski of Craft Beer Babe

 
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Exploring the world of craft beverages one glass at a time.

 
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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!

 
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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.

 
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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.

 
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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!