OEN Member Spotlight - Diane Paulson of Cascade Peak Spirits

Q. Name/Name of company
A. Cascade Peak Spirits – Organic Nation

Q. How long has your product/service/company been in the market?
A. Since January 2008

Q. How did you determine need for product/service (or why do anticipate a need)?

A. Currently there are very few Organic spirits in the world-only about 6 organic vodka’s and 2-3 organic gins. We felt that people wanted a choice between a spirit that is created by a company based on the concept & practices of sustainability and other mass-produced corporate liquors.

Q. Why did you choose the Ashland area to start your business?
A. We are based in Ashland because we live here

Q. What are your impressions of the entrepreneurial community in Portland and Ashland? How would you like to see it grow/change?
A. I believe Portland is so vibrant & dynamic. Ashland is a micro-cosem because of brisk tourist industry connected to Oregon Shakespeare Festival.

Q. How are you involved in the community and how has it helped shape your business?
A. We have lived in Ashland since the early 1980’s so we know tons of people and have a great network and community here. It is easier to get the word out because of our small size.

Q. How does OEN assist you/how are you specifically benefiting from the organization?
A. I enjoy reading about all the entrepreneurial enterprises classes, networks etc. I hope to benefit from women investors.

Q. What are your favorite websites/magazines/events that you read/attend to keep yourself informed about the business community/your specific market?
A. Malt Advocate, Imbibe, American Distillers Institute, Organic News, Oregon Tilth, THRIVE, Green Drinks, Portland Bites, Local’s Guide

Q. Any advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
A. Believe in your idea. Be willing to take risks, as one elder friend told me: "Go out on a limb and saw the limb off after you!"