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Business Insider
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Business Insider
'Real Housewives' star Erin Lichy and her husband Abe are building a mezcal empire between diaper changes
Erin and Abe Lichy launched Mezcalum, a mezcal brand inspired by their love of Tulum, Mexico. The Lichys say their mezcal is a smooth, versatile product that will convert tequila drinkers. Their mezcal brand emphasizes sustainability and female empowerment in the spirits industry. It's a sunny Tuesday afternoon, and Erin Lichy is multitasking in the New York office she shares with her husband, Abe, in true modern-mom fashion. While simultaneously fielding interview questions, she's feeding her newborn, the couple's fourth child. "I'm pumping as we speak," the 37-year-old told Business Insider with a laugh, a candid glimpse into the chaos and joy of life as a new family of six after the addition of her baby boy in March. Erin, a real-estate agent and interior designer, and Abe, a lawyer, aren't just a professional New York power couple. As of two years ago, when Erin joined the rebooted cast of Bravo's "The Real Housewives of New York City," they're also reality TV personalities. But being on TV hasn't stopped them from continuing to multitask. Shortly after joining "RHONY," the Lichys launched another venture: their mezcal brand, Mezcalum. That hangover-free feeling The genesis of Mezcalum is rooted in their love affair with Tulum, the beachy Mexican travel destination they describe as their "happy place." "We had mezcal for the first time there and fell in love," Erin said. Unlike the smoky mezcals that dominate the US market, what they tasted in Tulum was smooth, versatile, and surprisingly easy to mix or drink straight. Erin was so enamored by the spirit that she was determined to spread the word. "Somebody needs to bring this to America," Erin quipped of mezcal on a "Real Housewives of New York City" cast trip to Mexico. Though the moment drew social media backlash given mezcal's centuries-long presence and growing popularity in the U.S., the couple said they are genuinely invested in the culture and craft behind their brand. Pure mezcal, by Mexican law, must be 100% agave — unlike tequila, which can be just 51% agave, leaving room for additives that often lead to hangovers. It was a lightbulb moment for Erin, who realized that the spirit's pure-agave requirement was a major selling point. "There's an agave spirit that has to be natural, has to be organic," Erin said. For her, drinking mezcal has been a smoother experience than drinking wine or other liquors — especially the morning after. "We had a wild night drinking it with friends, and the next day I took a yoga class on the beach, had a green juice, and felt great," she said. "Especially as a mom waking up early, it's really hard for me to drink anything else," she added. A sustainable sip The Lichys saw an opportunity to disrupt a category they felt was "masculine-dominated" in both marketing and flavor profile. They reached out to their longtime friend, Chris Roth, as a partner; their partnership with their distiller, Carlos Mendez Blas, came through Abe's legal work in Mexico. "I'd been working with the largest tequila and mezcal law firm, Malacara Corporativo, in Mexico for years," Abe explained. That network helped them bypass the usual trial and error of finding a scalable, reliable partner. "When we were introduced to Carlos, it was really clear — this is our guy," Abe said. Carlos even became a part investor, a testament to his belief in the Lichys' vision. Their mezcal is crafted from a blend of agave species — espadín, the most commonly used agave variety for making mezcal, particularly in Oaxaca, Mexico. This diversity, Abe noted, is what sets mezcal apart from tequila, which can only be made from blue weber agave. "With mezcal, you can create ensembles — these blends that are impossible with tequila." Erin's platform as a real estate mogul and Real Housewife with a strong female following inspired a brand that was "beachy, light, and smooth" — a mezcal that could replace high-quality tequila in any cocktail. "We're on a mission to convert all tequila drinkers," Erin said. For Erin, it's also about creating space for women in an industry where they're often sidelined. "I'm actually in this brand," she said, adding that she's proud of the example she's setting for her children and for the next generation of entrepreneurs. Erin's commitment to sustainability runs deep — she studied sustainable development at NYU, and it shows in every aspect of the business. "I won't even send out plastic cups to our vendors," she said. Mezcalum's partner distillery in Oaxaca re-plants two agave plants for every one harvested, and employs a workforce that is more than 50% women. "There are very few women in the spirits industry who are actually in the brand, not just putting their name on it," Erin said. Running a business across borders can present unique challenges, especially with the recent landscape of tariffs and trade policy. Even before the threat of U.S. tariffs on Mexican spirits loomed, Abe used his legal acumen to plan ahead. "We entered into forward purchasing contracts and worked with our importer to capture FPT relief," he explained. Their proactive approach meant that even if tariffs had been imposed, their margins would have been protected. Ultimately, mezcal was exempted from the tariffs, but the possibility underscored the importance of planning and adaptability. It's a lot to manage, especially when Mezcalum isn't the Lichys' only baby — they have multiple other businesses, not to mention four children, one being an actual baby. So how do they do it? "We've become very good at compartmentalizing," Abe said. Both he and Erin have worked for themselves for years, and they "live and die by the calendar." They've also learned the hard way that they can't be hands-on with absolutely everything. "We made that mistake with our first business, a handbag line, where we never learned how to delegate," Abe admitted. Now, they're quick to ask for help and trust their teams. As the interview winds down, Erin and Abe reflect on their new chapter. "It hasn't really set in yet," Erin admitted of life as a family of six. But with a supportive partnership and businesses that reflect their values, the Lichys are enjoying every moment. Their mezcal isn't just a drink — it's a celebration of culture, sustainability, and the power of partnership.
USA Today
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Bethenny Frankel pokes fun at Jeff Bezos, Lauren Sánchez's wedding invitation
Bethenny Frankel is taking aim at the star-studded wedding of Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez with a hot take. Frankel, responsible for the viral "supermodel snack" trend on TikTok, took to her favorite social media platform to mock the invitations of Amazon founder Bezos and his now-wife Sánchez, who recently added her married name. "Ok, I've been diplomatic about the wedding, and I happen to love Lauren Sánchez, and I also adore Amazon, so I am treading lightly," the Skinnygirl founder said in the June 30 video. The billionaire Amazon founder and former award-winning TV journalist tied the knot Friday, June 27, in an extraordinarily lavish Venice wedding. Their walk down the aisle came after multiple days of star-studded nuptial events, but not everyone has been a fan. Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez tie the knot in controversial wedding ceremony "You know me, and you know I have a difficult time holding back when I have an opinion," Frankel added. Then, the former "Real Housewives of New York City" star slammed the couple's viral invitation, which allegedly leaked online. "The invitation, you lost me and as a result, for the people, I'm going to start dating so I can eventually get married and have a wedding and make up for that invitation because that invitation — I could not stay silent," Frankel quipped. Frankel jokingly said she was doing "the lord's work" by addressing the invitations, which feature nontraditional cartoonish illustrations and added that "it means I take a couple of hits, I get dinged up and bruised and I get into trouble, but the invitation is where you lost me." Celebrities tell all about aging, marriage and Beyoncé in these 10 bingeable memoirs Frankel then jokingly said she's on the market again, so she could eventually show fans what a wedding invitation is supposed to look like. "So, I am open for business after seven months. I am starting to date for the people, and I will be having a wedding at some point," she said. "I just don't know when or where, but I can't wait for you to see my invitation." Bethenny Frankel: Jeff Bezos was 'dork' before meeting Lauren Sánchez Frankel also took to TikTok days earlier, telling fans that the Bezoses "both became famous when they came together." The A-list coupling has long fueled tabloid fodder from those interested in the intersection of wealth and fame. "He was a dork before he met Lauren. He had money, but Lauren was like, 'Honey, I'll show you how to spend that money.' She bagged the elephant; she is the Meghan Markle with no rules," Frankel continued. Those comments were made about Duchess Meghan and Prince Harry's January 2020 step back from their roles as working British royals and the "With Love" star's struggles to leave behind her regular life to pursue the job.
New York Post
23-06-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Post
Luann de Lesseps is renting her Hamptons home for $150K
'Life is a cabaret,' says Bravo star Luann de Lesseps, an original cast member of Bravo's 'Real Housewives of New York City' franchise. After performing in Canada, England and Scotland — her last 'Countess Cabaret' show is at the Visalia Fox Theatre in California on June 27 — de Lesseps will head to the Hamptons, where she has a home in Sag Harbor, 'just minutes' from the village. But only for a bit. In August, de Lesseps will be renting out her stylish Sag Harbor dwelling — $150,000 for the month — while she spends time in Europe visiting Tilda Swinton in Scotland, and other friends in Monaco, France and Ibiza. Then she'll be in Brooklyn on Aug. 21 to host Countess Luann's Block Party at the Yard at 3 Dollar Bill in East Williamsburg. 13 For the month of August, a fan can live the fabulous at-home life of de Lesseps. Brian Zak/NY Post 13 The residence enjoys a gracious layout. Michael Rundberg/VHT Studios 13 A fireplace adds a dash of coziness to the interiors. Michael Rundberg/VHT Studios 13 There's more than just one fireplace — this one complements built-in shelving in a home office space. Michael Rundberg/VHT Studios 13 The roomy kitchen. Michael Rundberg/VHT Studios 13 The kitchen/dining area opens to the expansive outdoor deck. Michael Rundberg/VHT Studios Who says August is for relaxing? This summer, de Lesseps told Gimme Shelter, she's also working on a new book 'about dating and finding love again.' 'You have to know what you want,' she told Vogue earlier this year. 'We write our own story, nobody writes it for us. You have to make it happen and use the moment. Don't be afraid. Take a chance; if you're not scared, you're not living.' Her charming, renovated house — a 19th-century Greek Revival — is at 30 John St. in Upper Sag Harbor Cove. The property features a recently renovated four-bedroom, four-bath main house with modern interiors, water views and its own private dock that can accommodate a 30-foot boat. It sits on 3 acres surrounded by a white picket fence. Inside, there's a chef's kitchen, three fireplaces, an open living and dining room, and French doors that lead to a large outdoor deck with a motorized awning. There is also a saltwater pool and a one-bedroom, one-bath studio/cottage. 13 A view inside a grand bedroom. Michael Rundberg/VHT Studios 13 There's plenty of room for outdoor entertaining. Michael Rundberg/VHT Studios 13 This being the Hamptons, there's also a pool. Michael Rundberg/VHT Studios 13 A view of the backyard space. Michael Rundberg/VHT Studios 13 The listing also includes a private dock. Michael Rundberg/VHT Studios 13 With summer here, there's time to lounge outdoors. Michael Rundberg/VHT Studios 13 There's the supreme perk of water views from the property. Michael Rundberg/VHT Studios De Lesseps told Gimme she has been having a blast touring her latest Live Nation cabaret tour, under the direction of Richard Jay-Alexander, who has directed the likes of Barbra Streisand, Bette Midler and Kristin Chenoweth. She has also enjoyed starring in Bravo's 'Love Hotel,' now streaming on Peacock. 'I'm having so much fun touring the world for my show, showing clips and singing songs. I love it,' de Lesseps told Gimme. De Lesseps may also be finding love again — with James Quine, who was also on 'Love Hotel' with her. They're enjoying each other's company, she said, albeit with challenging logistics. 'He lives in Hawaii,' she said. The listing broker is Michael Riemerschmid, of William Raveis.
UPI
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- UPI
Watch: Luann de Lesseps says ring is gift from admirer, not James Quine
1 of 3 | Luann de Lesseps discussed her new ring and her relationship with James Quine on Sunday's episode of "Watch What Happens Live." File Photo by John Angelillo/UPI | License Photo June 16 (UPI) -- The Real Housewives of New York City alum Luann De Lesseps says the large aquamarine ring she wears on her left hand did not come from her Love Hotel co-star James Quine. De Lesseps, 60, discussed the ring and her relationship with Quine on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen Sunday. "It was a gift from one of my admirers. That's all I'm gonna say," she told Cohen. She said she wears the gift on her left hand because it wouldn't fit her right ring finger. "You know what I love about James is James is -- he says to me, 'You know, Lu. I live in Hawaii, right? I can't be there with you all the time. It is totally okay if you date, and when we see each other, we see each other, because I love you, Lu,'" she said. The pair starred in Season 1 of Love Hotel, which premiered in April and Quine recently said their relationship is still "hot and heavy." "I fell in love with her as a human being, and then I started to recognize some other feelings happening. Not just like, 'I love who you are as a human being, but I'm sort of, kind of falling in that other love thing, like, the romantic thing," he said.
Daily Record
14-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Real Housewives TV boss dies in childbirth and leaves behind baby boy and 3-year-old girl
Lauren Miller passed away just minutes after giving birth to her son. A TV executive behind the Real Housewives TV franchises has died during childbirth. Lauren Miller passed away just minutes after giving birth to her son, Jackson. The telly boss worked on the Real Housewives of Salt Lake City and the Real Housewives of New York City, and her tragic death was announced by production company Shed Media in an emotional statement. They said: "It is with devastated hearts that we share that our beloved colleague, Lauren, died unexpectedly just moments after giving birth to her baby boy. Lauren leaves behind her husband, Kevin, three-year-old daughter Emma and newborn son Jackson." Her husband Kevin left a heartbreaking comment that read: "Lauren is the love of my life and I was blessed by God that she chose to spend her life with me and give me two beautiful children to remember her every minute of everyday." He added: "Please pray for our family and thank you all for the prayers, kind words and thoughts. God bless." Real Housewives stars have also shared their own tributes to Lauren. Orange County's Tamra Judge wrote: "Prayers for her family & friends. This is absolutely heartbreaking." Salt Lake City star Heather Gay added a broken heart emoji. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. New York City's Sai de Silva posted several crying emojis. A GoFundMe page has been set up for Lauren's family by her co-workers, which has already raised over $131,000. The fundraising page said: "This unimaginable loss is impossible to comprehend and the hole that Lauren has left in this world and in her own family, is an impossible one to ever fill. "We are devastated for her beloved husband, Kevin, who must now unexpectedly take on the sole role of parenting their two children … Emma (3) and newborn Jackson, who is still in the NICU. "That the day Lauren was so eagerly awaiting should end in tragedy is truly unfathomable." Anyone that knew Lauren was affected by her warm smile, kind heart and thoughtful, intuitive nature. "She was the kind of person who could comfort you with a just a few words, because she always spoke from the heart. She was sincere, intentional and compassionate. "But among her greatest qualities was the love she had for her family. It was no secret how close she was to her entire family or how excited she was when she got to start her own. "From getting engaged to Kevin and then getting married to becoming a mother with Emma and next with Jackson, Lauren beamed whenever she talked about all that she had with her beautiful family." The post concluded: "The devastating loss of Lauren is far-reaching and we all feel helpless in the wake of the grief. But we can come together now to help take care of the thing Lauren cherish beyond all else: her family." In an update on Friday, Lauren's co-workers revealed baby Jackson has left the NICU and is at home with his dad Kevin and sister Emma, The Mirror reports.
