Meet Chavonne White | Wine Enthusiast & Personal Development Coach

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chavonne White and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chavonne, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting Mahogany + Merlot was driven by my love for wine and the desire to share that passion with others. I wanted to create a space where people could connect, learn, and experience wine in a fun, engaging way. Over time, I learned the difference between simply drinking wine and truly tasting it, and I wanted to provide others with that same educational and sensory experience. My goal is to teach my community about wines beyond the mass-produced options and create a memorable, enriching experience for all.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
In 2021, during the height of the pandemic, I was inspired to explore a new chapter in my life by venturing into the wine tasting business. For nearly 20 years, I’ve worked as a licensed cosmetologist, but I felt it was time to make a meaningful change in my career. That decision led me back to school, where I began studying psychology—a passion I’ve pursued wholeheartedly. I earned my associate degree last May and am now on track to complete my bachelor’s program.

I named my business Mahogany + Merlot because mahogany represents strength and resilience, qualities that define my journey, while merlot symbolizes richness, connection, and transformation—a nod to the depth I hope to bring to others through this endeavor.

What started as a wine-tasting business has evolved into something much more profound. Today, Mahogany + Merlot is a platform that curates events designed to spark meaningful conversations—particularly around the challenging topics that often go unspoken. My goal is to create a space that not only shares my love for wine but also fosters connection, growth, and positive change within the community.

The road to this point hasn’t been without its challenges. Some who were with me at the start of this journey are no longer part of this season, but through it all, I’ve grown stronger—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I am more educated, resilient, and eager for the opportunities that lie ahead.

At the heart of my work is the desire to inspire others. I want people to feel renewed when they encounter me—filled with joy, empowerment, and a contagious sense of purpose. Mahogany + Merlot is more than a business; it’s a reflection of my story, my passion, and my commitment to creating spaces where connection and transformation thrive.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m a big believer in supporting my community, especially small businesses, and nothing beats a well-planned Girls’ Day Out! The perfect day kicks off with brunch, and Breakfast Boys in College Park is always a solid choice. After indulging in great food, we’d stroll over to The Wellness Spa for some much-needed pampering—facials, massages, and a chance to “relax, relate, and release.”

Next, we’d head to Black Art in America in East Point to soak in some incredible culture and creativity. For lunch, Paper Plane in Hapeville is a must—their Thai cuisine is both delicious and budget-friendly.

Of course, no Girls’ Day is complete without happy hour, so Café Belli, also in Hapeville is the perfect spot for drinks and laughter before we wind down with popcorn and movies or games at home. My besties know our vibe: we party during the day and chill out at night, creating memories filled with joy and connection.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Since 2019, I’ve been on a transformative journey of self-discovery, with my therapist playing a pivotal role in offering support and guidance along the way. I’ve embraced self-accountability, personal growth, and living an unapologetically authentic life. Through this process, I’ve learned to advocate for myself and surround myself with people and environments that nurture ongoing growth and inspiration. This journey has not only deepened my relationships but also led to career changes that have fueled my passion for life. The Hue Society Atlanta Chapter has also been impactful in my wine journey. I’ve learned so much being in this organization as they’ve exposed me to opportunities that have leveled up my career and education in wine.

Website: https://Linktr.ee/mahoganyandmerlot

Instagram: _mahoganyandmerlot

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mahogany8merlot

Image Credits
https://www.instagram.com/antjohnsphotos?igsh=bHRoNmtzZ2VlYnpn