How one entrepreneur grew her business from 1 to millions of bottles of wine.

For every successful entrepreneur, there’s a moment that takes their small business from good to great. It’s a risk taken, a decision made, an idea executed. In this series, we ask small business owners about that fork in the road and the decision to take a big leap.

Chrishon Lampley

Founder & Negociant, Love Cork Screw

Winemaker and Distributor

Chicago, IL

From overcoming a devastating flood to transforming her passion into a powerhouse brand, Chrishon Lampley's Love Cork Screw journey is a testament to her resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. This Chicago-based dynamo has built a business that resonates with wine lovers across the nation.

A Resilient Beginning

Love Cork Screw began as a leap of faith during a challenging period when Chrishon was pivoting from the loss of her art and wine bar due to catastrophic flooding. Turning adversity into opportunity, she launched Love Cork Screw in 2013 as a lifestyle brand centered on wine, entertainment and community. In just a few years her venture sold over one million bottles and expanded its product line to include wine-scented candles and self-care products.

Pandemic Challenges and Triumphs

During the pandemic, while many businesses struggled, Chrishon's strategic focus on e-commerce paid off with a 300% surge in website sales, even as in-store purchases declined due to lockdowns. This coincided with a societal shift toward supporting Black-owned businesses, further accelerating her brand's growth.

"I went from three states of distribution to 18 in just months," Chrishon said, reflecting on her digital and in-store expansion. "It was clear that we had something special, and the pandemic solidified Love Cork Screw's place in the market."

The Role of Venture Capital

After frustrating experiences with the banking industry, Chrishon turned to venture capitalists who were eager to support her and understand the nuances of consumer product goods. This partnership allowed her to dramatically increase the visibility of Love Cork Screw, further driving success.

"Venture capital was crucial for us, especially for marketing and promotions," Chrishon explained. "It wasn’t just about funding; it was about having partners who were committed to your growth and who understand the industry."

Defining Success

For Chrishon, success is multi-faceted: It’s about “running a well-oiled machine,” ensuring product movement, and breaking new ground as a Black woman in a competitive industry.

"Success to me is inclusivity and proving that we can excel in spaces where we are less than 1% represented, such as the wine and spirits business," she said.

As Love Cork Screw continues to thrive, Chrishon is focused on national expansion and deeper market penetration. Her goals for the future are clear: "2024 is going to be fire. I’m ready to take Love Cork Screw to another level, ensure its legacy, and eventually, retire knowing I've built something lasting."

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