Joyful, bold, and visionary: these are apt descriptors for Lexx and Livv Mills, the sister duo who founded zero-proof cocktail company Revvl, and for their products, which are set to become available in early 2025. “More than a mocktail, it's a whole damn mood,” they say about their three canned “sips” that deliver the flavor and experience of an alcoholic cocktail in non-alcoholic formulas.
Inspired to experiment with mocktail mixology after cutting alcohol due to stomach pains, Livv (who is a Certified Specialist of Spirits) discovered a new passion and skill that she immediately brought to Lexx so they could start building a business together, a longtime dream of the two sisters.
Read on for more information about how these entrepreneurs are building a personality-driven brand, developing products in a red-hot category, and cultivating a celebratory community along the way.
Your story of Livv’s health turnaround after quitting alcohol is likely something that many others can relate to. Do you think health is the main driver behind the growth in “zero-proof” cocktails?
Absolutely. Throughout our journey, we've connected with many individuals who are choosing to moderate or cut out alcohol. Some folks are like my sister and have discovered that alcohol makes them physically sick. Others have realized that they just don’t feel their best the next day. They want to be healthier, yet they still crave sophisticated, adult beverages that allow them to feel included and celebrate without compromise.
Who or what inspires you, besides one another?
Revvl is inspired by an ethos of joy, celebration, and rebellion. More than a beverage, it’s about boldly honoring the person you feel called to be. This is what we mean when we say, “More than a mocktail, it’s a whole damn mood.” We’re motivated by our sisterhood, our shared experiences, and how we see the best in each other.
How did you develop the flavor profiles and combinations for your three “sips”?
My sister, Livv, is an incredible mixologist with over 10 years of experience. This girl is literally a Certified Specialist of Spirits so she understands the science of flavor. Our goal was to crack the code on crafting mocktails that taste like real cocktails, not juice. We wanted bold, delicious flavors and complexity that offered a genuine cocktail experience.
What are your short- and long-term goals for Revvl?
In the short term, we’re focused on doing everything we can to create a strong launch pad for Revvl in our home of the DMV (D.C., Maryland, and Virginia). We’re building relationships with awesome partners who believe in what we’re building. In the long term, we aspire to be the go-to choice for every cocktail occasion so that we can all toast to the moments that matter.
As you prepare to launch your products in early 2025, what marketing channels are you using to grow awareness and engagement with the Revvl brand?
We’re focused on telling our story and building our community through a mix of digital and offline marketing channels to grow awareness and engagement with Revvl. Digitally, you can find us on Instagram and TikTok (@siprevvl). Offline, we’re serving up our fabulous cocktails at sampling events. We love sharing our passion with people in person and allowing them to taste the Revvl difference.
Have you been able to apply any learnings from the SFA Maker Prep Course to your business? Are your fellow Maker Prep participants supporting you in any way?
The Maker Prep Course has been an awesome resource for us as we build the foundation for our business. We’ve been able to refine our understanding of product development, food safety, co-packing, and so much more. My sister and I are brand spanking new to this industry, and we are so thankful that the SFA has created this comprehensive program to support emerging brands.
Will we see you at a future Fancy Food Show? :)
You better believe it! I had so much fun attending the Summer Fancy Food Show this year, and I’m excited for us to exhibit in the future. Keep an eye out for us at upcoming shows!
What advice or recommendations do you have for food and beverage entrepreneurs who are just starting out?
Trust the process and find your community. Being an entrepreneur is the BIGGEST faith walk I’ve ever taken. It challenges me and calls me to stretch and evolve every day. Often, things take longer than you think they will, and when you start out, there is so much that you don’t know so you have to be flexible. I’ve found that food and beverage is an incredibly supportive industry despite how competitive it is. Find more experienced folks who can guide you when you have questions and who will encourage you to keep going.
Learn more about Revvl on their website, Instagram, or TikTok.
How the Founders and Sisters Behind Revvl Are Preparing to Roll Out their Zero-Proof Cocktails in 2025
