Maker’s Mark, the iconic handmade Kentucky bourbon, today announced its support of Vital Voices, a leading nonprofit investing in female leaders taking on the world’s greatest challenges, with a limited-edition label designed by renowned artist Gayle Kabaker. In honor of Women’s History Month, consumers are invited to order the complimentary Maker’s Mark label at makersmarkpersonalize.com and personalize it with the name of an inspirational woman in their lives.
“Vital Voices is thrilled to join Maker’s Mark in this collaboration to amplify the power of women,” said Alyse Nelson, President and CEO of Vital Voices. “We deeply appreciate their support in our mission to advance women leaders and our world.”
Gayle Kabaker, a longstanding partner of Vital Voices, has a history of creating art that showcases women “who use their power to empower others” and was inspired to illuminate the organization with Maker’s Mark. Kabaker’s limited-edition label depicts her interpretation of a spirited woman in acrylic gouache, inspired by the wildflowers of Kentucky and the colors of the Maker’s Mark palette.
“As a brand co-founded by my grandmother Margie Samuels more than 70 years ago, Maker’s Mark continues to be guided and grown by incredible women defining what’s next in the industry,” said Rob Samuels, Managing Director of Maker’s Mark and 8th generation whisky maker. “We are privileged to continue our commitment to women making an impact in their communities and support the meaningful causes that drive Vital Voices.”
While Bill Samuels, Sr. was focused on creating the highest-quality bourbon, he celebrated and empowered Margie to build the brand and brand experience – forever changing the spirits branding industry. The shape of the bottle, the look of the label, the signature red wax topper, and even the name itself are all thanks to Margie. Among the first women to be inducted into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame, Margie also championed the importance of the Kentucky distillery’s aesthetic and emphasis on tourism, planting a seed for what is now the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
The ongoing contributions of women at Maker’s Mark can be seen in all aspects of the brand, from the product development and leadership of Star Hill Farm, the home of the Maker’s Mark Distillery, as well as the brand’s sustainability initiatives and global brand representation. The Maker’s Mark team of female leaders are helping to shape the brand’s future through purposeful, flavor-driven innovation driven by the founders’ vision set forth by Margie and Bill Samuels, Sr. in 1953.
