Cocktails with a Side of Heritage? Argelia Martinez Is Making It Happen
If you’ve ever wondered if there was a way to celebrate Mexican-American heritage through a cocktail, Argelia Martinez has the answer. As the founder of Vida Mia Cocktails, Argelia creates guided cocktail experiences. They blend education, cultural pride, and the art of slow drinking.
But her journey is about much more than just a drink—it’s about reconnecting with her roots.
A Business Born from Heritage and Love
Argelia Martinez launched Vida Mia Cocktails in 2018 as a tribute to her parents and their Mexican heritage.
“There was a lot of national negative rhetoric coming from the Trump administration at the time. And I wanted to create a platform that allowed us, kids of immigrants, to learn our history, appreciate and share our culture, and to treat agave spirits like a fine wine,” Argelia shared with FIERCE.
Her classes teach participants about the maguey or agave plant. They explore its pre-Hispanic roots, mythology, and the craftsmanship that gives mezcal its name.
A Leap into the Spirits Industry
Argelia’s journey into the spirits industry began with a test. To validate her business idea, she hosted a food and beverage pairing class at a local restaurant in Chicago. The overwhelmingly positive feedback pushed her to officially launch Vida Mia Cocktails.
“I designed the experience and published a survey to help validate my business idea,” she recalls. After receiving positive feedback and referrals from attendees, Argelia then began to be booked by Employee Resource Groups at companies and coworking spaces.
In just three months, Argelia created an LLC, secured credentials, and became a trusted name in the spirits industry. She credits much of her success to her lifelong passion for learning. She regularly dives into books and resources like Agave Spirits: The Past, Present, and Future of Mezcals and the Mezcalistas newsletter.
The Power of Slow Drinking and Cultural Pride
However, Argelia’s classes go beyond cocktails—they foster connection and cultural pride. Her slow-drinking philosophy, for example, encourages participants to savor every sip, paired with fruit slices and artisanal salt, while discussing the cultural significance of mezcal.
“There is so much richness to uncover in the slow drinking movement that reminds us of our heritage, rituals, and the beauty of slowing down to sip while enjoying the company of loved ones,” Argelia explained.
But it’s not just about drinking. It’s about sharing stories, connecting with the past, and appreciating the craftsmanship of agave spirits. She wants the community to know that mezcal was used in sacred rituals in ancient history, and this legacy deserves respect.
Argelia Martinez and The Importance of Latina Empowerment in the Spirits Industry
Similarly, being a Latina in the spirits industry has shaped Argelia’s approach to her work. Her lived experiences in Chicago and Mexico give her a unique perspective. They allow her to educate her guests in a way that feels genuine.
“I love to throw in facts about Chicago in my classes, like the fact that agave spirits first appeared in the city during the World Columbian Exposition in 1893,” she said.
Furthermore, Argelia has found acceptance and opportunities in Chicago, a city where Mexicans make up 21.5% of the population. She credits her success to her working relationships in advertising and marketing, where former clients and partners have supported her journey as an entrepreneur.
Argelia Martinez’s Advice for Aspiring Latina Entrepreneurs
Finally, for Latinas and women of color looking to turn their passions into businesses, Argelia offers some valuable advice: “Find digital hacks when you can to save you time, money, and energy.”
She encourages others to use tools like Eventbrite to automate efforts and scale businesses more efficiently. This way, entrepreneurs can focus on creativity and building lasting relationships with customers.
Argelia Martinez is proving that heritage and passion can come together to create something truly special. With Vida Mia Cocktails, she is building a bridge between the past and present—one slow sip at a time.
