February 21, 2025

Greenville Launches Six Nineteen of 1865 Spirit Brand

News Summary

Greenville, SC, celebrates the launch of Six Nineteen of 1865, the first Black-woman-owned spirit brand in the city founded by entrepreneur Babette Jones. The launch event at Hyatt Regency highlighted Babette’s journey marked by personal challenges, innovative vision, and community impact. With ambitions for national distribution and a commitment to education through the Six Nineteen Foundation, Babette aims to empower local communities and inspire future generations.

Greenville Celebrates Launch of Six Nineteen of 1865

Exciting times are brewing in Greenville, South Carolina, as local entrepreneur Babette Jones puts her mark on the spirits industry with the launch of the city’s first-ever Black-woman-owned spirit brand, Six Nineteen of 1865. This innovative venture is also making headlines as the third Black-owned spirit brand in the entire state! With a launch party at the Hyatt Regency in downtown Greenville on October 19, 2024, the excitement in the air was palpable as friends, family, and supporters gathered to toast to this momentous occasion.

Inspiration Born from Celebration

The inspiration for Six Nineteen of 1865 was born during a special trip to Hilton Head Island on June 19, 2022, where Babette and her friends tasted a delicious cocktail cleverly named “Juneteenth.” This joyful experience stirred Babette’s creative spirit, leading to the birth of her very own brand. Little did she know, it wouldn’t be long before that spark ignited a full-fledged entrepreneurial journey.

A Solid Foundation Rooted in Love and Loss

Throughout this journey, Babette endured personal trials, including the heartbreaking loss of her friend, Jimmie Flythe Jr., who passed away on February 13, 2023. His memory became a driving force behind Babette’s ambition, motivating her to push forward despite challenges. She aimed to create something meaningful and lasting, not just for herself but for the entire community.

Charting New Paths in Her Career

In April 2023, Babette made a significant career move by transitioning from her role as a major gift officer at Furman University to take on the senior director of development position at Greenville Technical College. Her time at Furman inspired her to explore further avenues of innovation and entrepreneurship, especially through the Hill Institute for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. It was here that she got involved with the GVL Starts program, a platform designed to nurture new ventures in the local community.

A Winning Pitch and Financial Boost

In a twist of fate, Babette participated in a pitch competition as part of the GVL Starts program, and her excitement was contagious when she won a $5,000 grant! This funding provided her the crucial kickstart she needed to bring her brand vision to life. Overall, she successfully raised a whopping $90,000 in funding, which is a remarkable achievement for any startup!

Giving Back Through the Six Nineteen Foundation

It’s not just about launching a spirit brand for Babette; she’s also committed to making an impact through charitable efforts. On the day of the launch, Babette established the Six Nineteen Foundation, aimed at supporting philanthropic endeavors and education. Her mission is clear: to leave a legacy for future generations and work towards creating generational wealth in minority communities.

Where to Find Your Favorite Spirits

If you’re eager to try the fruits of Babette’s labor, you can currently find Six Nineteen at 19 Wine and Spirits on Verdae Boulevard. With ambitious plans for national distribution within the next year, it seems there’s no stopping Babette’s journey to share her unique flavor with spirit enthusiasts everywhere!

A Bright Future Ahead

Babette Jones is a force to be reckoned with, and she brings to the table a long-term vision for her brand and her life, exuding determination and resilience. As she steps boldly forward, it’s clear that Six Nineteen of 1865 is not just a business; it’s a movement, one that champions representation and empowers communities.