From Bartender to Brand Builder: April Wachtel’s Cheeky Pivot

What happens when a cocktail educator, brand strategist, and former Bacardi ambassador decides to launch her own product line—in the middle of a global crisis? You get Cheeky Cocktails…and one seriously inspiring journey.

April Wachtel didn’t just stumble into entrepreneurship. She tested, pivoted, and reimagined her way into it—learning from failure, navigating trolls, and bottling mixers by hand to meet demand. In this candid conversation, April gets real about what it takes to build a brand from scratch, and why separating your ego from your business is one of the most liberating things you can do.

In this episode, April shares:

• Why her first business wasn’t “it”—and how she knew when to walk away
• How launching during COVID actually worked in her favor
• What it really looks like to bootstrap and scale (she’s still her only full-time employee!)
• The mindset shift that changed everything: market feedback > perfection
• How one 30-second lime-cutting video exploded to 150K views—and why she’s doubling down on digital

Whether you’re pivoting, planning, or just craving a better way to build, this convo will light a fire under you (and maybe your next happy hour).

Key Topics:

• Entrepreneurship during a pandemic
• Pivots, product testing, and growth mindset
• Overcoming imposter syndrome and perfectionism
• Visibility fears, trolls, and social media strategy
• Building brand credibility with limited resources

For 15% off your order from Cheeky Cocktails, use this link: cheekycocktails.co/PENNY15
The discount will apply and show in your cart. Cheers!

FREE 3-day workshop—Stop Selling, Start Serving—where I’ll show you how to swap sleazy scripts for service, crush limiting beliefs, and finally have fun showing up for your business.

📅 September 16–18, 2025
 👉 Grab your free spot here: https://pennyforyourshots.com/workshop

This workshop is designed for female entrepreneurs who want more impact without feeling salesy. Let’s get you unstuck!

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Register for my FREE Workshop: Stop Selling, Start Serving
https://www.pennyforyourshots.com/workshop

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Wanna sip with us? Join my Sipper Club here: https://pennyforyourshots.com/sip

Learn More, get on the list, or Register for Wine Camp 2026:
https://www.pennyforyourshots.com/winecamp

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- Or Facebook: Penny (Kuhlers) Fitzgerald