Founder: Helena Price Hambrecht
Before founding Haus, Helena worked in Silicon Valley for 10 years helping tech companies with their branding, marketing, and PR. She found herself drinking often - whether it was for work, catching up with her friends, or going on dates. Helena often wondered why there wasn't a better way to drink. She then met her now husband, Woody, who was thinking about the same problem. At the time, Woody was making aperitifs, which he became passionate about after spending time in Germany. Helena did some research and realized that the alcohol industry was missing a brand that aligned with modern consumer values - health, image, transparency, authenticity, and convenience. She decided to partner with Woody on the idea and after only one year they launched Haus.
Haus offers aperitifs made from all natural ingredients, sans the artificial flavors and refined sugars typical of large corporate brands. With the help of roots, herbs, and botanicals, Haus has a complex flavor, but is lighter in alcohol content than the liquor that Americans traditionally use in cocktails (~18% vs. ~40% ABV), so that customers can enjoy the social ritual of drinking without the undesired consequences. You can order via the company website, after which Haus ships directly from its farm in Sonoma, CA to your door.
"I’ve been underestimated my whole life, but that’s not unique. I had someone interview me once and at the end he said, 'You’re smarter than I thought you’d be.' I’ve seen criticism online [in comment sections] that I’m just a mom, and how could I be that impressive [in business]. Over the years I’ve found you can just channel it as motivation: don’t get too down about it, don’t lose sleep over getting pissed at all the people who made you feel that way. I’ve also learned it’s not actually about me—it’s whatever I represent to that person." - Helena
Sources: Domino, The Helm, Fast Company, Haus website