Meet Kristen Carlson-Bye

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristen Carlson-Bye. 

Hi Kristen, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I wasn’t always in the wine industry. My background resided in Cyber Security, emerging Technologies for Tier 1 Fortune 500 companies, including HIPPA compliance, Blue Dot Technologies/Wayfinding – some pretty cool stuff! I also always had a second job modeling, promotions, being an ambassador for sports radio, and pouring wine/beer/spirits. BUT one day, I spoke with my husband and told him I wanted to pursue my passion for wine, and I gave ALL that up for a part-time position to train under Captain Ignazio Tatulli – who worked as a wine steward at my local Italian Grocer. (I also was working 4 additional jobs! – construction, selling Rodan+ Fields, promotional pouring, and other consulting/marketing work). I soon was discovered by a Napa Valley Winery right here in Metro Detroit, where I worked with them for 2 years pre & post Pandemic. That led me to creating my very own position for the best winery in Michigan – MAWBY Sparkling. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Oh, heck no! Hard Work DOES Pay off, though – I am a testament to that for sure! Always hustle BUT remember, and this took me years to realize into my late 30s – make time for yourself. Rest, relax, recover – vacation as often as possible. Take advantage of opportunities IMMEDIATELY – because you do not know when they will come again, if ever. One of my employers overworked me to the point of my health deteriorating, which is not like me because of my fitness and bodybuilding background. My husband has been so supportive of my newfound lifestyle that is much more relaxed. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a Consultant – It takes years to finesse knowledge sharing & I do not know everything, but what I do have is a hunger and thirst for knowledge in this industry I love. Creating, executing and sharing tasting events or educational events with my peers is one of my favorite accomplishments. I am currently partnered with one of Detroit’s Best Chefs providing intimate in home dining experiences.

I focus on wine – specifically, my background started in Italian which is my stronghold. I’m obsessed with sparkling: Charmat & traditional method. I also love Georgian wines & old world with a rich history. I am constantly learning and absorbing. With wine comes food! I am a Google Top Restaurant Reviewer with over 3.4 million viewers of my reviews from the Midwest! I am so blessed to have such a strong blog that I will be expanding! 

I also have been organic gardening for many years – another seasonal challenge which teaches many lessons – example, we had a mole infestation this year! First time my husband, dog & neighbors conquered this vermin! The Organic gardening is for my family & community – I have a roadside stand that I sell fresh, Organic produce. Which in these scary times is comforting to know I will be canning and helping others produce & preserve their own food. With gardening comes the plant healing; marijuana is a medicine that is utilized to create gluten-free & sugar-free goodies for healing & recovery. 

Fitness – this is what brought my husband and I together – alongside holistic healing and Ayurvedic Practices. I could go on and on here. We love fitness, bodybuilding shows & leading the healthiest lifestyle! My mother has done 19 shows and helped my little sister and I prep & show on the stage! What a challenge and great way to get to know your body! 

The most important focal point is working with friends & family who truly value my unique skills, dedication & perseverance. 

What was your favorite childhood memory?
My late Opa making me pancakes in the shape of a K, eating saltines with butter, liverwurst sausage & pickled herring – to say my grandpa was expanding my palate for my future foodie blogging and wine tasting is an understatement. We also would forage in Illinois for acorns & mulberries. 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/KristenCarlsonBye
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kris10tcarlson/