Maeve Smith is the general manager of Coursey Graves Winery in Sonoma County. “Coursey Graves is a special place. From the site to the wines and the people, there’s always something thrilling going on up here.” Learn more about Maeve Smith…
Follow at: @courseygraves
Hometown: Half Moon Bay, California
First job: Working for my dad’s wholesale produce brokerage in San Francisco.
Favorite ways to spend your free time in CA: Spending time with friends and family drinking wine, talking about wine, listening to music on our record player and making delicious food. I also enjoy going to the theater on any given weekend.
Your biggest accomplishment and why: Showing up as a mom and wife every day. Sometimes, it is hard, but my two girls and husband are worth every ounce I have to give.
The biggest obstacle you overcame: Postpartum depression. Luckily, professional help and medicine made a big difference for me. If you are also struggling with postpartum depression, don’t try and be a hero and endure it. Get the help you deserve.
Someone who inspires you and why: The people in my daily life. The friend who takes the time to text you; my parents who come to visit on the weekends; my husband putting on a record with our daughters and having a dance party; my husband giving me the biggest hug and telling me he’s proud of me—can you tell I’m madly in love with my husband?
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: Do it! The best people in the wine business are dynamic. Play to your strengths and show what you bring to the table.
Favorite quote: “Be silly. Be honest. Be kind.” ––Ralph Waldo Emerson
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: I hold an MFA in Musical Theatre and spent the first part of my career working out of New York City as a musical theatre performer traveling the world!
What makes someone fabulous: Empathy.