Community Highlights: Meet Emily Tanski of Fleurish

Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Tanski

Hi Emily, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Fleurish was born from a desire to expand the availability of zero-proof drink and event options in Cleveland. About a year ago, I began exploring sober curiosity and quickly realized how limited the choices for creative alcohol-free drinks were. The options in the private event space were even more disappointing—mostly flavored waters or sodas that didn’t make me feel great about choosing not to drink. In 2024, I launched Fleurish to bring more zero-proof events to Cleveland and make hosting these gatherings easier. Our “Sober in the City” series introduces innovative non-alcoholic drinks in an elevated dining experience, aiming to normalize the choice not to drink. Fleurish’s mission is to offer thoughtful and creative alcohol-free options to our community, no matter where they stand on their personal journey with alcohol.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Hosting events with Fleurish has been such a rewarding experience! The Cleveland community has been incredibly open to exploring new options and is eager to try the cocktails we serve. The biggest challenge we’ve encountered so far has been educating people and addressing the stigma around choosing not to drink. Many consumers aren’t aware of what’s possible in the non-alcoholic space, as these options are only now gaining wider acceptance. We love being able to introduce people to new and exciting alternatives. Although we still get questions about why we focus on non-alcoholic options, our goal is simple: to provide more choices. It’s always amazing to see the enthusiasm on our customers’ faces when they discover that alcohol-free drinks can be fun, delicious, and creative!

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Fleurish is a zero-proof bartending and event service based in Cleveland, OH, specializing in creating intentional and alcohol-free experiences. Our mission is to redefine the social drinking experience by offering thoughtfully crafted, alcohol-free beverages that are just as complex, flavorful, and satisfying as their spirited counterparts. We believe everyone deserves to raise a glass in style, and we ensure no one feels left out.

Founded by Emily Tanski, Fleurish was born from the need for more alcohol-free options at restaurants and events. Our goal is to make not drinking the new norm, and we’re doing it in the most fun and engaging way possible. With a packed schedule of events, we’re constantly developing new and exciting alcohol-free experiences in Cleveland and beyond. One of our signature events is *Sober in the City*, an unforgettable evening of exceptional food, alcohol-free wines, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. This series showcases talented local chefs and highlights the joy of not drinking through carefully curated non-alcoholic pairings, each event hosted at a unique venue.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I’ve been fortunate to have incredible mentors and supporters who encouraged me to take the leap and start my business, and who continue to support me along the way. Before launching Fleurish, I worked in a corporate setting where I was mentored by a coworker and dear friend. He pushed me to follow my passion and believed in my vision when it was still just a distant dream. I couldn’t run my business without the unwavering support of my family—my partner Anthony, my brother Blake, and my dad. Each of them has had faith in me, even when I struggled to believe in myself, and has continued to show up at almost every single event. Anthony, in particular, encouraged me to take that first leap and has been by my side every step of the way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.drinkfleurish.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinkfleurish/