Community Spotlight Interview: Meet Toni – The Founder of Toni’s Wine Club
Discover the story behind Toni’s Wine Club, founded by Toni, who brings inclusivity, fun, and fresh energy to the wine industry. Learn about her journey, passion, and vision for the future of hospitality.
Tell me a bit about yourself…
I’m Toni, founder of Toni’s Wine Club. My passion lies in making wine inclusive and memorable. Before entering the wine world, I spent 11 years in management consulting. This experience sharpened my problem-solving skills and adaptability across industries.
My love for wine started after trips to Cape Town and Bordeaux. Back then, I knew little about wine. But I quickly developed an appreciation for the craftsmanship behind every bottle. This curiosity led me to complete WSET Levels 1 and 2, deepening my knowledge and ultimately turning my passion into a career.
I created Toni’s Wine Club to make wine more accessible, engaging, and diverse. My goal is to connect people through shared experiences and exceptional wines.
.
Can you tell me about your career in hospitality and what you do?
As the founder of Toni’s Wine Club, I curate unique wine-tasting events. These range from intimate gatherings to large-scale corporate functions. My role involves sourcing outstanding wines, particularly from Black-owned and underrepresented producers. I design creative, interactive tastings that bring people together.
Beyond events, I help wine businesses refine their market positioning and expand their reach. I combine my event expertise, wine knowledge, and consulting background to help brands grow and foster inclusivity in the industry.
.
What drives your passion and keeps you motivated in the hospitality industry?
I love creating welcoming spaces. Wine is more than a drink—it sparks conversations and connections. Helping people discover wine, whether they’re beginners or enthusiasts, energises me.
I’m also passionate about amplifying diverse voices in the wine industry. Many incredible wines come from underrepresented producers. Sharing their stories and celebrating their craftsmanship keeps me motivated.
Is there a particular moment or achievement you are most proud of in your career?
Two standout moments in my career so far include:
- Hosting a Black History Month wine-tasting series. We showcased Black-owned wines, introducing guests to new flavours and inspiring producer stories. Seeing their excitement was incredibly rewarding.
- Organising a corporate wine tasting for over 200 people required meticulous planning. From selecting wines suited to the audience to managing logistics, it was a major achievement. The feedback confirmed that wine events can be both educational and fun.
.
Have you encountered any career challenges to date?
Transitioning from a corporate career into the wine industry was challenging. The wine world can feel exclusive. However, I remained focused on my mission. By continuously learning and building authentic relationships, I carved my space. Collaboration has been key to my success.
.
The future of hospitality is…
The future of hospitality revolves around meaningful experiences and inclusivity. People seek more than just good food and drink. They want authenticity, cultural connections, and engaging stories.
I envision a wine industry where diverse voices and producers are recognised. Their excellence deserves attention. It’s an exciting time, and I’m proud to be part of this evolution.
Read more community spotlight interviews here.