Nina Dobrev and Julianne Hough, two Hollywood actresses, have debunked the old saying that you shouldn't mix friendship with business. They've maintained a strong friendship and become co-owners of Fresh Vine Wine, a company known for its premium, lower-carb, and lower-calorie wines produced in the heart of Napa, California.
Since its launch in 2019, Fresh Vine Wine has gained substantial recognition, trust, and a dedicated national customer base. Recently, the company reached a significant milestone by going public on the New York Stock Exchange, bearing the fitting ticker symbol VINE. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Nina and Julianne share their thoughts on their journey, friendship, and balance's importance.
Breaking Stereotypes: Celebrating a Female CEO
Fresh Vine Wine's achievement is remarkable because it went public; it's also a milestone in promoting women in leadership roles. The company is led by CEO Janelle Anderson, highlighting the rarity of female CEOs in the business world.
Only 6% of the New York Stock Exchange listed women lead companies. Nina and Julianne are determined to change this statistic by contributing to a more diverse corporate landscape.
From Wine Lovers to Wine Producers
The duo's journey into the wine business was fueled by their love for wine and a desire for a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. Having explored different corners of the world and tasted exquisite wines along the way, they decided it was time to craft their own.
Their vision was clear: create wines that allow people to indulge guilt-free. They noticed a growing trend towards health-conscious living and holistic approaches and realized that wine lovers shouldn't have to compromise on taste to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Fresh Vine Wine was born, offering a premium wine experience without the guilt.
A Decade of Friendship - and Counting
Nina and Julianne's friendship spans over a decade, and their decision to venture into business together was well-considered. While conventional wisdom often advises against mixing personal and professional relationships, their experience proves otherwise.
Effective communication, mutual respect, and the ability to challenge each other positively have been the pillars of their successful partnership. They complement each other's strengths, allowing them to divide and conquer in the business world, working smarter, not harder.
The Power of Friendship in Business
Nina admires Julianne's generosity, magnetic presence, and knack for making every moment special. Julianne, in turn, is inspired by Nina's fearlessness, determination, and ability to take risks. They've found a perfect balance in each other's company. Julianne's magnetic charm and Nina's go-getter attitude create a dynamic that encourages them to be their personal and professional best selves.
Lessons Learned Along the Way
Their journey together has been a learning experience. Nina mentions that she was surprised they hadn't embarked on this adventure sooner. Working together has been seamless, and sharing this journey with a dear friend has made it even more fulfilling.
Julianne reflects on the growth they've experienced together, celebrating career milestones and this shared success. They emphasize that creating something you love with someone you love is a rare and beautiful thing.
The Balancing Act: Premium Wines for Every Occasion
Fresh Vine Wine offers diverse wines, including Cabernet, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Rosé. These wines have received rave reviews from wine enthusiasts. Nina and Julianne often share their wines with friends, who are wine connoisseurs, without revealing their ownership. The response is consistently positive and reaffirms their commitment to delivering quality products to their customers.
Holidays With Fresh Vine Wine
As the holiday season approaches, Nina and Julianne plan to spend quality time with family, enjoying a winter wonderland, watching movies, sipping hot chocolate, and indulging in their wine. It's a time for reflection, gratitude, and focusing on the future.
The Approach to the New Year
Regarding New Year's resolutions, Julianne advises against a "having to" mindset and instead advocates for a mentality of "getting to." She emphasizes the importance of creating a balanced, sustainable version of happiness. Fresh Vine Wine, emphasizing guilt-free enjoyment, embodies this approach, allowing people to savor life's pleasures without compromising their well-being.
Empowering Women in Business
Before concluding, Nina and Julianne share an empowering message for women aspiring to follow their path. They emphasize that their journey proves that anything is possible with dedication and passion. They encourage women to trust in themselves, remember that there's room for everybody, and focus on contributing rather than competing.