A.LISTER EXCLUSIVE: DR. NICOLA NICE
SHE IS ON A MISSION TO BRING SPIRITS TO FEMALE CONSUMERS
How many spirits can you name that are targeted towards men or named after men?
Let's face it, women have been left out of the consumer culture of spirits. You’ll probably recognize brands that advertise ‘skinny’, ‘zero calories’ and ‘flavored. Yet, good spirits are delightful to taste and appreciate. They are wonderful to savor, fun to mix, and as a host rewarding to share. That is why seeing a female-founder making a timeless spirit crafted to be savored is thrilling!
That is exactly what Nicola Nice, Ph.D., founder, and CEO of Pomp & Whimsy is doing. “I am trying to bring respect to women as consumers of spirits.” She says, “I feel like we have been left out of the cultural conversation on liquor and I'm here to change that.”
This is more than just good cocktails. Dr. Nice has an essential mission. “It's important for all industries to be equitable from an agenda point of view.”
Her vision is good for business. Women consumers are savvy. When Jim Beam launched their ads with Actress Mila Kunis verses almost any male-driven ad campaign ever… sales have grown 43 percent. However, only 2% of venture capital funding went to female-led companies in 2017.
This hasn't stopped the standout gin from being adopted by bartenders and connoisseurs alike. Nicola has never let any barrier get in her way. "No is just an opportunity to reflect and reassess and get back up and go," she says. It is that determination that has grown Pomp & Whimsy's success, from an idea to a mixology staple.
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STYLE Q&A
A.TEAM: What is your favorite type of shoe to dress up a pair of jeans and A.Lynn top?
NICOLA: In Spring/Summer it's LK Bennet Pumps and in Fall/Winter it is Vince suede booties.
A:TEAM: Where is your ideal place to sip on a Pomp and Whimsy cocktail this summer? And what A.Lynn piece would you wear to that occasion? And what Pomp and Whimsy recipe would you be drinking?
NICOLA: A) My backyard; B) EZ Dress in sheer jersey/black; C) Whippet (P&W, grapefruit juice, tonic, lime).
A:TEAM: As a mother of 2 + solo-founder, time is scarce and laundry is hefty…Is it important for you to have machine-washable clothes? How have your A.Lynn pieces held up in the wash?
NICOLA: A) 100% It’s not just about machine washing, it’s also clothes that don’t require ironing! B) They’ve held up great! No shrinkage, no piling, just wash and good to go – they’ve been a lifesaver when I have a short turnaround to pack between trips!
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THE BEST HOST
The A.Team loves a good savory holiday cocktail, so we picked our Pomp & Whimsy mixer to share with you!
This holiday host with confidence, knowing your guest will love your cocktail selection. The Pomp 75 is light, bubbly, and easy to sip at brunch or happy hour.
Check out Pomp & Whimsy and follow her on Instagram for all her incredible work.