Celebrating Women in Spirits

We are welcoming spring with open arms, and what better way to celebrate than with a refreshing cocktail made with two of our favorite PNW women-owned bitters and spirits.

The Wild Card

Featuring Freeland Spirits and FreeWildShe bitters

This bold cocktail is an ode to the changing of the seasons, the transition from winter to spring. The fresh, botanical gin paired with bright pomegranate speaks to the spark of new life spring ushers in on the heels of winter, while the cardamom bitters add a familiar warmth reminiscent of not-so-distant cozy winter evenings. Top with bubbles and a splash of lime for a little zing.

Get the recipe here!

Q&A with Jill Kuehler and Shandrea Frew

Featuring Freeland Spirits and FreeWildShe bitters

How did the name of your business come to be?

Jill: Freeland is named after my Meemaw Freeland, my mom's mom. She never touched any booze but she taught me about strength, perseverance and to go for your dreams. She was the primary breadwinner in her family and became a beloved elementary school teacher. My mom and dad were actually in her 5th grade class together. On the front of our bottle there is a woman holding up a stalk of grain. I like to think of her as Meemaw, or any woman, having the privilege and empowerment to go for her dreams.

Shandrea: The name FreeWildShe came out of my journey of self-discovery and is a foundational value behind everything I create. We are free to create the life we desire and explore the wisdom of the wild. It’s an invitation to be curious and savor moments for yourself.

Best parts about being your own boss?

Shandrea: I love the ability to build my work schedule around my life. I’m able to attend my kids’ events and be involved in the community to advocate for causes I care about.

Jill: I don't have a boss?? :) While I may not report to a boss, I report to thousands of Freeland fans and customers who believe in our brand and our products. And I work with 20 people who I love and respect. We're building something together. I work harder than I ever did when I was an employee. And I carry way more responsibility. But I love that I had the honor of creating something beautiful that wouldn't have existed otherwise and for that, I'm incredibly grateful.

What is one piece of advice you’d give to other women who have their own business aspirations?

Jill: If you wake up and it's all you can think about, go for it. Surround yourself with friends, family and mentors who are only a phone call or a cocktail away, and allow yourself to lean on them. I was on the fence for about two years deciding whether or not to launch Freeland. My daughter was three at the time. I finally looked at her and realized that she deserved to see her mom go for her big thing. I wanted her to someday feel empowered to go for her big thing. I may fall on my ass. She may fall on her ass. In fact, it's guaranteed to happen at least 1,000 times if you're going for something meaningful. But we will never have to wonder what could have been. No matter what, we can look back and feel proud. And so can any gal who wants to launch her wildest aspirations.

Shandrea: Listen to your intuition and show yourself grace. Know why you’re starting a business and how it fits into the life you’re building. When you make decisions, do a gut check—how does it feel? Does it fit with what you want? Trust yourself and create a business on your terms. You don’t have to be like everyone else. And be kind to yourself when something doesn’t go as planned or imposter syndrome creeps in. We are all just figuring it out and a hefty dose of grace will help you keep moving forward.

Anything exciting on the horizon? Can be business or personal!

Shandrea: I recently moved into a new kitchen and 3x’ed my production space! Plus, I’m in the process of hiring a new assistant. I’m super excited to teach someone else my production & business knowledge.

Jill: We're distributed in 26 states now. Just 24 to go :)