What’s your current position at your brewery, and how did you get started in the craft brewing industry?

I am currently in sales and marketing at Shanty Shack Brewing [in Santa Cruz, Calif.]. I was introduced to good beer by my older brother, Bryan, who is a manager at Out of Bounds Brewery. I got my first job bartending at Santa Cruz Ale Works. Sales for a brewery has always been my dream job. My boyfriend, Brandon, opened Shanty Shack in 2016 with his business partner, Nathan, and I was able to make my dream a reality.

What’s new at Shanty Shack?

The beer! We never brew the same beer twice. It’s a lot of work but has been a great way for us to experiment with different techniques, market trends, consumer opinions, hops, etc. After a year and a half in business and more than 150 different beers brewed, we’re finally starting to talk about flagships.

What’s the best part of being a part of the craft brewing community?

The craft beer community is truly one of a kind. Beer is a very versatile and living, breathing thing. Sharing different emotions with the community over a craft beer is why I love this industry so much.

Name a favorite food and beer pairing.

Witbier and oysters.

What’s your biggest accomplishment unrelated to your job?

Owning and operating my own business, Sun’s Out Buns Out, a hotdog cart in Santa Cruz. It’s no longer in operation but just that I was able to do it was a big accomplishment.

What’s the most memorable travel destination at which you’ve had a chance to sample the local beer?

Belgium! I was 20 and living abroad in Paris. My brother had sent me a wish list of beers to bring back to the States. I went to Brussels for the weekend and had done some research on where to find Westvleteren XII. My brother was more than thrilled that I actually found it!

What do you like to do in your time away from the brewery?

Ride bikes along the coast, camp, dance, and of course check out other breweries.