Celeste Beatty

Background

About Celeste Beatty

Ever thought a humble soup pot could spark a brewing revolution? That’s exactly how my journey began – a dash of curiosity, a deep connection to culture, and a love for crafting something people can share and enjoy. I’m Celeste Beatty, founder and brewer at Harlem Brewing Company, where our mission is simple: brew with heart, honor history, and bring communities together.I’m a proud North Carolina native who made Harlem home in the early ‘90s, after graduating from Shaw University. What started as a plan for a master’s degree transformed into a passion for brewing – turning weekends into experiments with hops, malt, and new flavors. In 2001, Harlem Brewing Company was born with the release of our Sugar Hill Golden Ale®, making history as the first African-American woman-owned craft beer brand on a commercial scale in the US.Our beers are more than just drinks – they’re a tribute to Harlem’s legacy of art, music, and resilience. Today, we’ve grown from local bars to international shelves, with our brews reaching New York, the UK, Japan, and beyond. Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of partnering with cultural giants like the Apollo Theater, Whole Foods, and Jazz at Lincoln Center, showcasing what a community-driven brand can achieve.But for me, it’s not just about brewing; it’s about "brewing it forward." Whether I’m sharing knowledge through free brewing classes, supporting local causes, or simply pouring pints at neighborhood events, the spirit of giving back is at the heart of everything I do.Recognitions like being named an Emerging Entrepreneur by the Clinton Foundation and twice honored as Entrepreneur of the Year by the Harlem Business Alliance are humbling. However, nothing compares to the joy of seeing people connect over a beer brewed with history and heart. In 2016, one of our proudest moments came when Harlem Brew was featured at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture's grand opening alongside President Obama. Led the development and launch of unique, award-winning products like Harlem Renaissance Wit and Sugar Hill Strawberry Hard Cider. Expanded distribution along the east coast and internationally, solidifying Harlem Brew’s presence in key markets.At its core, Harlem Brewing Company stands for craft, community, and culture. Whether it’s tending hops in the spring or collaborating with local artists, I’m driven by the belief that beer can be a vessel for stories, heritage, and human connection.Let’s raise a glass to community, culture, and great beer!