Riley Flanagan of Riley’s Rows on starting her own international wine company

Describe your business in a few words:

When I was four years old, Dad and I had our first harvest. I came home and knew I wanted to be a winemaker. I have loved growing up in this industry and I started Riley’s Rows as a way to share wines with people. My mission is to offer well made and intentional wines at an accessible price point.

What was your background prior to starting your own business?

I grew up following my dad around all aspects of the wine business. Before starting Riley’s Rows I worked as a cellar rat helping with production, shadowed Dad on sales trips, and took over our website and tech.

Did you always know you wanted to be an entrepreneur?

Yes, I saw how my dad has always worked for himself and knew I wanted to do my own thing. I love being able to make my own hours and set my own directions for Riley’s Rows. It lets me focus my brand and really create what I love.

Take us back to when you first launched your business, what was your marketing strategy to get the word out, and did it go as planned?

I was fortunate to have made so many friends and connections throughout my travels with my dad. We reached out and they were so excited to work with me and try my wines. I was really grateful for everyone’s support.

What is the accomplishment you are the most proud of to date?

I love when I go into a restaurant and see my wine by the glass. I especially love when I get to meet people trying my wines or when people reach out to tell me they’ve tried them and share their experiences with me.

Do you believe in work/life balance? What are some of your best tips?

I try to! It’s hard in the wine business because there is so much of an overlap between personal and professional. I think just being clear about boundaries and making a little bit of time for yourself everyday are really important.

What have you achieved recently that you’d like to celebrate with our community?

I recently completed two of my longest sales trips yet and had amazing connections and events that are being set up. It was really exciting getting to go to new markets and share my wines.

What’s next for your business? What can we expect to see over the next few years?

I really am just focusing on opening new states and extending my outreach. So hopefully you’ll see Riley’s Rows wines at your favorite restaurants and wine shops.

What excites you about being an Entreprenista League member?

I just can’t wait to connect with the amazing women on this platform. I think it is so cool to just have a space to share and encourage and love that I’ll get to be a part of it.

Learn more about the Entreprenista League and join today!