We’re back at it with another edition of our Women-Owned Brewery Spotlight series! Today, we are thrilled to shine the spotlight on Sedona Beer Company, owned and operated by the remarkable Kali Gajewski.

Situated amidst the stunning landscapes of Sedona, AZ, Sedona Beer Company isn’t just a brewery — it’s a testament to resilience, community, and the unwavering passion of women in the brewing industry.

Read on to learn more about this incredible women-owned brewery!

BEING A WOMAN IN THE BREWING INDUSTRY

Work For Your Beer (WFYB): What challenges have you faced as a woman in the craft beer industry, and how have you overcome them?

Kali Gajewski (KG): When we first opened, I often received a lot of disbelief, and inappropriate questions about my qualifications and if I was “really the owner”. However after 6 years, and a small community people now celebrate SBC being woman owned, and I have been able to support other female entrepreneurs in the community.

WFYB: What is your proudest moment as a woman in craft beer?

KG: I don’t think I have one single proudest moment. Watching my staff be excited about the beer we make and sharing that excitement with customers, and building something the community loves has brought me a lot of pride.

WFYB: What is your favorite beer your brewery has ever brewed?

KG: Oh that is tough, we brew a lot of variety. Probably the first time we did a 100% local malt lager, where we could really taste what the grain in our valley tasted like. Now all our beer is made with that grain!

WFYB: That’s so cool! I love that you went hyper-local to make that happen!

LET’S TALK COMMUNITY & INCLUSIVITY

WFYB: Speaking of supporting local… How does your brewery support the local community?

KG: We raise money for local non-profits each month, host mixers, and do our best to support local producers and be as sustainable as possible.

WFYB: How do you foster a supportive and inclusive work culture within your brewery team?

KG: Well there is probably to much to write to encompass it all, but we make sure to have open lines of communication, have a no-tolerance policy for hate or discrimination, and in general treat all our staff and visitors with respect and kindness.

WFYB: Is there anything else you’d like to share with the Work For Your Beer audience?

KG: Sedona is a beautiful place, if you come and visit us remember to leave no trace, and enjoy the view.

WFYB: Noted, and we hope we can visit y’all soon!

A huge thank you to Kali Gajewski for sharing her journey, passion, and commitment to fostering a vibrant community around great beer. We encourage the Work For Your Beer audience to visit Sedona Beer Company, experience the magic of their craft brews, and immerse themselves in the beauty of Sedona. 

Let’s raise a glass to Sedona Beer Company and to all women-owned breweries making their mark in the world of craft beer — here’s to community, inclusivity, and enjoying exceptional beer together! Cheers!