Today we’d like to introduce you to Marsha Chamberlain.
Marsha, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Raised in Broward County, Florida, I am an educator, a philanthropist, and now a businesswoman. I spend my professional life as an educator working with at-risk youth, and as a philanthropist organizing community events voluntarily in and out of schools. I motivate my students and my community to get involved in our youths’ lives by having guest speakers to our school and events. I create field trips and get sponsors from well-known organizations in Broward to identify support within the community. Because of this, on more than one occasion my previous students have waved me down excitedly to say thank you and that they would not have come as far as they did without me pushing them and caring so much. I’m all about utilizing a dream so that it can become a goal and one day a plan.
That is why my brand Flight33 which is a Jamaican rum punch is so endearing to me. The name Flight33 incorporates my love of taking chances, loving to travel, and of the number 3 symbolizes increase, discipline, and success. I branded my business in November 2019 to commemorate turning 33 and symbolically have my aspirations take flight.
During the holidays, Jamaicans are known for making tasty treats and drinks. Being that I am of Jamaican descent, a friend of mine asked me to make some rum punch and some other Jamaican tasty treats for an upcoming holiday in 2018. I asked some of my relatives to make the tasty treats and I decided to make the rum punch for her.
At the time, I never made rum punch before, so I researched different recipes and came up with my own. I bottled it up and gave it to her. Word spread about my rum punch in our social circle. A friend of ours who enjoys hosting poolside events asked me to make the rum punch for her bring your own bottle event. After I made it for her that one time, every time she had a gathering, she asked me to make my rum punch. From there, I named my rum punch Flight33. I want to serve as an example to my students and community that visions can come true.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
As far as starting and operating my business, it has not been a smooth road. I have had many learning curves. I had to find proper bottles with tampered seals, learn about Florida State laws and county laws when selling my cocktail. I had to learn how to track everything. Currently, my biggest hurdle is self-promoting and marketing while working a full-time job. Once people try my cocktail, they like it and want to buy it. Getting Flight33 exposed and onto people’s taste pallets is the challenge, which is why I am appreciative of my customer base. My customers, also known as my passengers, are so creative, and they help me with my marketing. I receive videos, pictures, and messages from my passengers, exclaiming how much they enjoyed taking flight with Flight33. Although I have obstacles in front of me, my customers are the ones that keep me motivated when operating my business.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I sell Flight33, which is a rum punch. I specialize in making and bottling the rum punch. Flight33 is known for its authentic Jamaican rum punch flavor. Many customers describe Flight33 as, “Something that tastes good! It is strong, yet smooth.” I am most excited about having a product that people have good things to say about. I feel proud when I receive positive feedback from my passengers. My slogan is Take a Drink! & Take Flight! My drink provides the opportunity for people to enhance sociability, enjoy the moment, and escape social restraints with a fruity flavor. What sets Flight33 apart from other rum punches is that you get the authentic Jamaican experience in a bottle. Rum punch is commonly made in someone’s kitchen and served at gatherings in a drink dispenser. However, my rum punch is bottled and can be bought at a consumer’s convenience. There are other bottled rum punches that you can purchase, but they are either harsh or they are difficult to find. As of right now, people can place an order by direct messaging me on Instagram or Facebook, or by calling me to place an order. Flight33 is its own vibe!
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was spunky, risky, sweet, and a child that just wanted to have a good time. I was a playful kid that was full of energy and curiosity. I wanted to understand everything around me, and anything that looked fun I wanted to do. I was risky in ways that I liked riding my bike down steep hills and stepping out on faith to following my desires and hoping for positive outcomes. As a young girl, I liked to write, dance, and talk. By the time I was nine, I knew all my neighbors in my community. I could be the spokesmodel for the saying, “it takes a village to raise a child.” I grew up in a quiet community with not many children around.
Most of my neighbors would hold a conversation with me and share their wisdom. I had a very vivid imagination and would describe how I viewed things to be to my neighbors, family, and friends. I would speak my mind and always stepped up to a challenge. I was a leader in my own right because I was not easily swayed by the opinions of others. Those conversations I had with my community made me feel like anything was possible. My childhood experience has taught me the importance of embracing my voice while respecting the voices of others. As an adult, I speak to be understood and not necessarily to be right. Those childhood experiences reared me to have compassion and provided me with confidence to be my most authentic self.
Pricing:
- 1/2 Gallon Bottle $65
- 750 ml $30
- 2 oz. $5 or 3 for $12
Contact Info:
- Phone: 786-505-3046
- Email: Flight33rumpunch@gmail.com
- Instagram: Flight33__
- Facebook: Marsha Slim
Image Credit:
Jlaw_inspired, Lisa “_young_mo_lisa” Piper, Kidd Micc, Jenell Clare, and Marsha_Slim
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