Today we’d like to introduce you to Trevor Whitehead.
Hi Trevor, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
For a few years, I personally was a small home brewer, brewing out of my garage. When the Covid pandemic hit in 2019, most people were stuck at home and during this time my neighbors started coming over to my garage and trying some of the beers I had made. During this time but neighbor Joel Steinmetz (Co-Owner South O Brewing) starting brewing with me, and we were able to create a bunch of new recipes with our neighbors able to try and judge for us. One thing led to another, and we decided to open brewery.
After making this decision and looking around for a location, it was clear that starting a venture like this in our own backyard of South Oceanside made complete sense. Living in South Oceanside area, we were able to pay homage to the local community by naming our beers after local streets and landmarks. On our opening day on Dec 4th, 2021, we had nearly 2000 people come through our doors. Since then, we have held events for the local school and Oceanside Firefighters Charity, in naming a beer “Station 2” Red Ale. This station is local to South Oceanside. The building we are in with our cotenant Vigilante Coffee was the Oceanside College of Beauty for 40 Plus years and was part of the fabric of Oceanside. We recently held an Alumni Night for people who were Teachers, Students, and for the kids who had the $3 student haircuts.
Recently we have expanded our footprint into around 70 locations around San Diego and have collaborated with some local restaurants, Home Brewers, and coffee stores in the community. Recently we were voted “Best New Brewery” in San Diego Magazine by the people’s vote. Currently, we have events planned with Yoga, Food Vendors, Trivia, and Car Shows.
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?
I believe starting any new business has its ups and downs and this was the same with South O Brewing. Our business opened up during the pandemic and this affected Supply Chain, Staffing, etc.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Ownership at South O Brewing comes from the wine industry and Cruise Ship industry.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Lean on people who understand the industry you want to go into but be always be ready to help other people who want the same advice. This creates community within the industry.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.southobrewingco.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/southobrewingco/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/South-O-Brewing-Company-106088741666664/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/southobrewco
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/south-o-brewing-company-oceanside-2
