In the heart of Cape Coral, a new type of brewery opened its doors, they are Botanical Brewing Co.. What makes them unique is that they specialize in drinks that they describe as better than booze. These drinks are plant-powered, infused sparkling teas on tap. They have different types of elixirs and kava -an extract made from a Pacific Ocean plant-, and each of these drinks bring a different benefit to you, the benefits are described anywhere from focus to euphoric.

The tap room and the Kava Culture bars they supply, spread across Southwest Florida, are a place where artists, families, and the community come together to share a bula. What is bula? It’s a word from Fiji and its literal meaning is “life,” but the word is used to greet others, wish good health, and -at Botanical Brewing- to welcome others into the Kava Culture family.

10 Questions With Jessica Sanford from Botanical Brewing Co.

1. What is your background and how did you end up at Botanical Brewing? 

Jessica: I moved to Florida to work in my family's business. It was a 10 year paid apprenticeship in Sales, Advertising, and office management. I studied different forms of holistic medicine and worked for holistic practices, Events managenment in hospitality. I was furloughed due to Covid, and I decided that I wanted to pursue a career that is in line with both my passions, and that my skill sets are transferable so I applied to Botanical Brewing Co/Kava Culture.

2. What is Botanical Brewing? 

J: Botanical Brewing Company is the first plant based non alcoholic Brewery in the United States that is currently supplying Kava Bars and Restaurants across Florida with plant based style taps and kegs. Also , has recently opened to the public as its own non alcoholic venue that specializes in alternative entertainment.

3. What are the different types of beverages offered here? 

J: We offer plant based tea elixers, plant based tap, fresh brewed coffee. All drinks served are vegan friendly

4. What are the effects of Kava?

J: I can only speak from personal experience. Personally Kava makes me feel relaxed and mildly euphoric

5. Who can drink Kava?

J: Anyone can drink Kava. We serve adults 18+ and have a range of organic juices for the kids.

6. What is bula? 

J: A Bula is an island tradition that is typically done in celebration of a milestone event such as a birth, union, or to honor your guest. We honor each new guest by raising a Bula to them wishing them prosperity, good health , and welcoming them to The Kava Culture/ Botanical Brewing Family.

7. How is Botanical Brewing creating a sense of community in SWFL? 

J: We work hand in hand with our neighboring business owners and showcase independent business owners at our events. Our company is about seeing everyone thrive and succeed. We also have a Department headed by Stevie Stocker that specializes in working in the community along side many non-profit organizations.

8. What type of events are you offering? 

J: We recently had our grand opening to the public, and since that time we have opened up mornings to independent business owners as a mobile office space. We created a Self Care event on Saturdays, which offers affordable facials, massages , and other Holistic modalities.

A weekly Spiritual showcase on Thursdays, of the best and brightest in the spiritual community that provide spiritual guidance and products.

Mondays and Tuesdays are geared towards parents and children. We welcome pets and children and encourage bringing back "family time" with a few fun added bonuses.

Parents join us Tuesdays Nights for Parent's night out. We typically have massages, yoga, and will be adding other services to help parents relax while the kids are taking part in after school activities.

Coming soon.. a Sundays Farmers market, Freestyle and Open Mic Poetry Nights that will be accompanied by interactive fun activities.

9. Which one is your favorite brew? 

J: I love Bulas with flavored vegan creamers, they taste like Chai Tea. I also love our Tahitian Red vein Tap as well as our Sour Apple green vein Tap. Oh, and Fresh brewed espresso every morning!

10. Jessica, what inspires you daily?

J: I get to meet and work with truly amazing and talented people everyday. I'm inspired by their passion for better health, spiritual development, and creating a safe space where all are welcome.

You can listen to the full interview below or follow us on our Gulfshore Local The Podcast on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts from.