FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
My pricing is designed to be transparent and flexible to meet the needs of various events, from small private tastings to large corporate gatherings. Each event is customized based on the number of guests, the selection of wines, and any additional services required, such as food pairings or educational components. For private wine tastings, I typically offer packages that include a selection of high-quality wines, with prices ranging based on the value of the wines chosen. For example, a standard package might include six wine selections, with pricing adjusted for the specific wines and the number of guests. I strive to provide competitive pricing that offers great value, ensuring that you get a memorable and enjoyable wine experience without breaking the bank. Additionally, I am always open to discussing your budget and tailoring the event to fit your financial needs. Feel free to reach out for a detailed quote based on your specific requirements. I believe in clear communication and will work with you to ensure there are no surprises when it comes to pricing.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
When working with a new customer, I start by understanding their unique needs and vision for the event. We have an initial conversation to discuss their goals, preferences, and any specific requirements. From there, I tailor a customized plan that aligns with their expectations, ensuring a memorable and engaging wine experience. Flexibility and creativity are key, so I adapt my approach to fit each client’s individual style and needs.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
My education and training in the wine industry include achieving the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) Level 1 certification, which provided me with a solid foundation in wine knowledge, tasting techniques, and service standards. While this certification is an important starting point, I view it as just the beginning of my wine education journey. I’m actively pursuing further knowledge and skills in preparation for the CMS Level 2 certification. This ongoing self-study involves extensive reading, regular tastings, and staying current with industry trends and developments. Additionally, my Master’s degree in Psychology has proven surprisingly relevant to my work in the wine industry. Wine appreciation is deeply connected to sensory perception, emotions, and social experiences. My background in psychology helps me understand and enhance the customer experience, from the psychology of wine selection to the impact of environment on taste perception. Perhaps most importantly, my hands-on experience interning under Sean Beck, a renowned sommelier in Houston, provided invaluable practical training. This mentorship exposed me to high-level wine service, food pairing, and event planning in a prestigious restaurant setting. I believe in lifelong learning in this field, so I continuously seek out opportunities to expand my knowledge through industry events, tastings, and networking with other wine professionals.