Rock it with VAQIT - High Quality, Clean, Sugar & Sodium Free, Alternative Hard Seltzer
/Join us in welcoming VAQIT to Firefly Handmade! Owners Tuffli and Chris set out to create a high quality vodka-based seltzer that satisfied their standards and tickled their tastebuds. With flavor profiles like Clementine Pineapple, and White Peach Ginger, everyone is sure to find a flavor that they love. Sample them THIS WEEKEND at Firefly Handmade Denver Holiday Market, November 19 & 20, on Old South Gaylord Street in Denver.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
- Tuffli: I’m originally from Madison, WI, but during my professional journey has brought me through NYC, Westchester, Singapore, and currently in Houston, TX. I love to spend my free time outdoors (especially in the Colorado mountains) with my family and/or friends and you can find me running, biking, swimming, golfing, skiing or hiking. I also love to travel and experience different parts of the world with my family.
- Chris: I was born in the Sacramento but grew up in Oklahoma. My family moved to Tulsa when I was 5. I have lived in Colorado since I graduated from College. I have a great passion for the outdoors including mountaineering, camping, hiking and fishing. But my favorite thing in the world to do is boat. I love anything involving a boat. I wake boarded for many years but now my focus is learning to wake surf. I enjoy experiencing new adventures and seeing new parts of the world with my family and loved ones.
What inspired you to start your business?
- Both: We wanted to create a high quality, clean, no sugar & no sodium alternative to the seltzer market, which we believe had been lacking in the marketplace. More importantly, we wanted to create a product that fulfilled our gluten intolerance and a brand that is an extension of our lifestyle.
Can you tell us the story behind your business name?
- Both: It’s pronounced Vock-it. The idea was simple… in concept. We wanted to create a name that could become verb and personifies the VAQIT culture. VAQIT was a mash up from the “V” in vodka and “AQ” in aqua (Latin word for water). The “IT” was later added to emphasize what or how we do IT! Today, the word is used to VAQIT (“rock it”) or we express it as Rock the VAQ!
What makes VAQIT stand out?
- Both: Our simple but elegant brand appeal is deliberately designed to demonstrate that something high-quality doesn’t have to be overly complicated. As a local startup, based in Denver, we pride ourselves in developing long-term partnerships where we can help achieve success for the entire “team”. We really value our strategic approach in partnering with the right company for both sides versus a mass launch. We take the time to understand our partner’s goals and objectives and see where VAQIT can help make them come to fruition.
What inspires your flavors? Do you have a favorite?
- Both: We felt that many alternatives focused on one flavor note profiles, so we wanted to create a crisp and clean vodka canned cocktail with bold and dynamic flavor notes for consumers who enjoy a robust flavor experience. It took us two years to create these flavors that we’re proud to share with everyone. I really enjoy all three of our flavor offerings, but I’d say that our Clementine Pineapple has a hint of our childhood favorite summer treat, the orange creamsicle.
What excites you for the future?
- Both: Our Team and the partnerships!
The Team: We have been very thoughtful in bringing people into the VAQIT family with similar values, but with strengths from their own life experiences. I couldn’t be prouder of the team that we have and what each person has done to help shape the VAQIT brand. Chris and I may have started the journey, but it’s the entire team that moves it forward.
The Partnerships: It’s been wonderful to meet so many influential partners throughout this journey across our entire value chain. We believe this journey is a team sport and developing key teammates will lead to success for the entire team.
We are ecstatic with our growth velocity since launching in Denver last July and we look forward to forming more local partnerships in 2023 – The Year of RTD Cocktails!
What’s the best advice you ever received?
- Tuffli: Life has many ups and downs. You’re faced with challenges and various distractions but having true grit will lead to long-term success. The journey is a marathon, and you should appreciate the process not just the outcome.
- Chris: Simply put, Hard Work!! My father taught me the value of hard work every day of his life.
What do you like about being a Firefly Handmade artisan?
- Both: We LOVE to support and be a part of a community that brings together small businesses who are passionate about sharing their craft. The businesses and people who come to support this community aligns with the VAQIT values.
Is there anything else that you would like to share?
- Both: We love to hear from the market. Want a new flavor or a store/restaurant in your neighborhood? Let us know at letvaqit.com. We also love any support as we progress this amazing journey. Follow us on IG/FB @letsvaqit
Let’s VAQIT!
Connect with Let’s VAQ CO THIS WEEKEND at Firefly Handmade Denver Holiday Market, November 19 & 20, on Old South Gaylord Street, Wash Park, in Denver.
