When we stepped inside Arthur Wheeler Spirits Co. in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, it was immediately clear that this was more than just a distillery—it was a vision brought to life. From the elegant design of the bottles to the hidden speakeasy-style lounge, the space radiates creativity, culture, and community. I’m so appreciative that we were able to tour the distillery, see firsthand how things work behind the scenes, and experience the atmosphere that Kimberly Wheeler has helped cultivate. The location is beautiful, the lounge is truly a vibe, and Kimberly’s bubbly spirit shines through in every corner of the brand.
A Bold Woman in Whiskey
Kimberly Wheeler, Chief Partnership Officer at Arthur Wheeler Spirits Co., is making waves in an industry not historically built with Black women in mind. She embraces this role with courage and intention, proudly describing her presence in whiskey as “bold.” For Kimberly, it’s not only about creating a seat at the table but also about opening doors for others. “We humbly believe there’s enough space for everyone,” she shared, underscoring her mission to bring more diverse voices into the premium spirits world
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Creativity Meets Strategy
At the core of Kimberly’s work is her ability to merge creativity with business acumen. She doesn’t view partnerships as transactions but as conversations rooted in authenticity. Her approach has already led to impressive wins, including collaborations with the Washington Commanders and standout activations, such as the VIP Arthur Wheeler Spirits Lounge at Pro Con. These initiatives highlight how she seamlessly integrates artistry, storytelling, and community into every campaign.
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Her leadership style is grounded in grace, humility, and clarity—qualities she calls her “swagher.” By balancing creativity with operational precision, Kimberly ensures every partnership reflects the brand’s ethos while also driving measurable impact.
Building With Intention
During our conversation, Kimberly emphasized how important education is to the whiskey experience. She believes consumers should not only enjoy the taste but also understand the craftsmanship behind each spirit. From the buttery cinnamon toast notes to the rich vanilla finishes, her passion for guiding others through the experience is contagious.
Arthur Wheeler Spirits has also become a hub for culture, collaboration, and artistry. The speakeasy-style lounge feels like a place where stories are shared, trends are set, and community thrives. Kimberly and her husband, Arthur “Bo” Wheeler, have built not just a business but a lifestyle brand rooted in creativity and intention.
Advice for Black Women in Spirits
When asked what advice she would give to other Black women pursuing leadership roles in the spirits industry, Kimberly stressed the importance of self-awareness, mentorship, and community. “Don’t shrink yourself. Show up, take up space, and know your craft,” she said.
Her words are a reminder that success comes not just from innovation and strategy but also from staying grounded in who you are.
Tune In
This feature only scratches the surface of our inspiring conversation with Kimberly Wheeler. To hear the full discussion, listen to the complete CEO Chatter LIVE podcast episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
We also live-streamed the first two parts of the distillery tour—you can watch them now on YouTube to experience more of the behind-the-scenes look at Arthur Wheeler Spirits Co.
Closing Reflections
As I wrapped up my time at Arthur Wheeler Spirits Co., I couldn’t help but feel inspired by Kimberly’s journey. She embodies creativity, resilience, and intentional leadership. From the beautifully designed bottles to the warm hospitality of the distillery, every detail reflects her touch.
Kimberly Wheeler is not only redefining what it looks like to be a Black woman in whiskey but also setting a new standard for authentic partnerships and community-centered growth in the premium spirits industry.
Follow Arthur Wheeler Spirits Co. on Instagram at @awsco_co and visit their distillery at 1001 Prince George’s Boulevard, Suite 200, Upper Marlboro, MD to experience the artistry for yourself.
