For Danica Dias, gathering around a vibrant kitchen in Louisiana was more than a family ritual—it was the heartbeat of her Creole heritage. Growing up in a big Louisiana family, Dias learned early that food and drink are more than sustenance; they’re vehicles for tradition, community, and celebration. Inspired by memories of her grandmother’s soul food dishes and family gatherings filled with laughter, Danica envisioned Grown Folks as a brand that would bring these flavors to life in a way that resonates with generations to come.
Now, as the founder of Grown Folks, the first Black-owned, mom-owned, and female-owned hard seltzer brand, Dias blends her cultural legacy with over 20 years in the food and beverage industry to bring authentic, soul-food-inspired flavors to the shelves. Available in over 100 stores across California, including Whole Foods Market and Sam’s Club, Grown Folks is a celebration of Black culinary heritage and the joy of gathering. Home & Texture caught up with Dias to explore her journey and her vision for the brand.
Danica Dias: My heritage has influenced both the flavors and branding of Grown Folks. Growing up with my late Grandma’s soul food recipes, I was inspired to create a hard seltzer brand that reflects the rich, familiar flavors of Black cuisine. Our branding celebrates Black culture, family, and southern traditions with authentic Louisiana Creole vibes. Our products embody the comfort and joy of soul food dishes passed down through generations, something completely new in the alcohol market.
DD: Research and development was a creative and meticulous process, drawing from my family heritage and conceptualizing how the brand would look, taste, and feel. I had to source high-quality ingredients to capture the essence of each flavor, experimenting with test batches and refining dozens upon dozens of iterations. We conducted taste tests to get feedback, then adjusted sweetness, acidity, and flavor intensity to perfect each recipe.
DD: It’s important for me to be very present for my boys, so I juggle a lot of work responsibilities late at night when they’re sleeping. I’m lucky to have the support of my siblings, mother, and cousins—they help with both the business and the boys. That’s how we grew up, with our grandmothers always around to support my mom. I want my boys to see Grown Folks as more than just a drink business; it’s family. I also talk to them about our family history and traditions and involve them in small admin tasks. They’re incredibly proud of their mom and their ancestors. Yes, my household is very busy, but it’s worth it.
DD: Entertaining is a big part of Black culture. Big family gatherings center around food and drink, kitchens, barbecues, holidays, celebrations, happiness, and freedom. That’s what our can artwork demonstrates—the joy of gathering together. It’s also how the term “Grown Folks” emerged. I grew up learning everything about my culture in these gatherings, and the brand was born from those experiences.
DD: Grown Folks Hard Seltzers are fruit-forward and slightly sweet. They’re carbonated and best served very chilled. Salty flavors complement sweetness, so pairings like fried catfish, slow-cooked brisket, ribs, crispy chicken, or even a burger all work fabulously.
DD: My Granny always had something sweet cooking, filling the home with an inviting aroma. A simple trick for hosting is to have a pie baking in the oven or fruit like peaches simmering on the stovetop with cinnamon—the smell sets a welcoming tone. She also loved placing name cards on the table, which was a small but elegant touch. And don’t forget the music—put on a Sam Cooke record, and you’re good to go!
Experience Louisiana Creole flavors with the Grown Folks Hard Seltzer Variety Pack, featuring three soul food-inspired tastes: Peach Cobbler, Ambrosia, and Key Lime. Each 6% ABV seltzer blends real fruit with unapologetically sweet, fruit-forward notes that evoke cherished family recipes. This pack celebrates heritage with a California-crafted twist.
This article has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.
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