The Pink Girls Run The World (PGRW) movement is all about using our platform to reinforce the voices of women around the globe in a way that not only supports, but empowers all women. In a world where
women are still striving towards gender equality, we can’t afford to lose our energy working against each other. As a part of our ongoing celebration of women who create changes in the world that inspire and empower other women, I had a virtual chat with Stuyvesant Champagne founder, Marvina Robinson (Named after the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood in Brooklyn where she grew up). With notes of raspberry and redcurrant, the label’s berry-licious Brut Rosé, priced at $68, is one of my favs.
PGRW: Turning your passion for French champagne into a trailblazing business; how did visiting different vineyards in France influence
your decision to launch Stuyvesant Champagne Brut Rose and Grand Reserve?
Robinson: I would say that it was actually the reverse, I knew I wanted to launch a private label champagne and in order to do so I needed to venture out to France to visit vineyards. It was a great experience, touring the vineyards, being immersed in the champagne culture and just learning (and still learning).
PGRW: The Global Dreams Index Survey recently reported that more than half of the world’s population of women give up on their dreams, being told to be realistic, play it safe and avoid taking chances. Are there any complications that come with being a black woman that is new to a white male dominated industry?
Robinson: There are always complications when being a minority (double minority in this case, #1 Black and #2 Woman) in a new field. There is no direct answer, I just tackle issues as they arise, one after the other, after the other, after the other. I am no stranger to hard work and will continue to do what is necessary to introduce the world to my brand.
Photo Credit: Stuyvesant Champagne Instagram
PGRW: What's your #1 tip for women who are thinking about ditching the security of a traditional 9-5 job to become an entrepreneur and don’t know where to start?
Robinson: Everyone has to decide when the time is right for them. I did not have the perfect timing and was not ready to leave the stability of finances, I still yearn for that check, lol. HOWEVER, it forever feels right to know the work that I have put in is becoming a product that consumers love. My advice would be you will have good days and bad day, but keep pushing because nothing is perfect and it is not uncommon for issues to arrive just when you think everything is going right.
PGRW: You have traveled to France several times in the last 18 months to bring your dream to fruition. Describe the most interesting person that you met when you 1st traveled to France’s Champagne region?
Robinson: The first time that I traveled to France, I met a guy named Chris and he changed my life by introducing me to the first vineyard that I toured.
PGRW: What has been your favorite place that you have traveled to and what made it so special?
Robinson: I've done a lot of traveling in my time and I would say my favorite place is Tulum. The very first time that I visited Tulum, I was so stressed out. It was during the first year I owned a café and I needed a break. It was heaven and every time that I go I have an amazing experience.
PGRW: What is the best piece of travel advice that you have received?
Robinson: Always enjoy wherever you travel regardless of the circumstances.
“Among the whispering and the champagne and the stars.” - F. Scott Fitzgerald
Photo Credit: Stuyvesant Champagne Instagram