Samara Rivers, Founder

My love for bourbon began on a family trip to New Orleans upon taking the suggestion of a salesman who introduced me to his favorite spirit. I became an instant fan of the spirit and spent every Friday for an entire year creating and mixing new cocktails with bourbon. It was something I shared within my network locally in Oakland and across the country via social media.

After realizing that there was very little direct consumer marketing geared towards people of color in the spirits industry; I began to brainstorm how to raise awareness of an emerging trend and demographic of upscale African American professionals who have high disposable incomes, enjoy luxury products and premium spirits. And thus, Black Bourbon Society was created…

Samara Rivers, Chief Bourbon Enthusiast, Founder - is a seasoned event planner and experiential marketing producer. She has a flair for all things fabulous and is meticulous with details and event execution.

As an influencer within the African American Community, Samara consults and advocates for diversity and inclusion in direct consumer marketing standards and the importance of having ‘a seat at the table’ within the spirits industry.  She is a certified Executive Bourbon Steward, co-hosts a weekly podcast with her life partner, Armond Davis, Bonded In Bourbon, and writes a monthly column for The Bourbon Zeppelin. Samara also speaks and moderates panel discussions at festivals across the country and hosts private educational whiskey tasting seminars and events upon request.

Samara lives in Los Angeles and Atlanta, is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and Jack & Jill of America, Incorporated. Albeit ‘Bourbon Famous’ within the spirits industry and extremely active in her local community; she is simply known as ‘mommy’ to two amazing children, Alva & Rex.