Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Goulette.
Hi Melissa, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
For over three decades, I’ve built my career on a simple belief: the most powerful marketing doesn’t just sell products, it creates connections that matter. My journey from regional marketing executive to entrepreneur has been defined by this philosophy, weaving together brand strategy, community impact, and the pursuit of experiences that bring people together.
My career began in consumer engagement and regional strategy, where I had the privilege of working with iconic global brands including McDonald’s and Dunkin’. At Dunkin’, I managed marketing across the Southeast, a dynamic ten-state territory spanning Virginia to Florida, encompassing thousands of locations and diverse communities. This role taught me that successful marketing isn’t one-size-fits-all; it’s about understanding local nuances while maintaining brand consistency.
Leading integrated marketing campaigns in this capacity, I developed everything from professional and collegiate sports partnerships that connected Dunkin’ with local communities, to breakthrough national activations. One of my proudest achievements was spearheading Dunkin’s partnership with the Savannah Bananas, a collaboration that began as a regional idea and evolved into a nationally celebrated campaign, generating excitement that extended far beyond the ballpark and became a brand-defining moment.
Throughout my corporate career, I’ve maintained an unwavering commitment to community impact. While working on McDonald’s marketing initiatives, I supported Ronald McDonald House Charities by leveraging marketing and media relationships to drive visibility and support for families in need. At Dunkin’, I spearheaded initiatives across the Southeast that raised significant funds for children’s hospitals, converting those contributions into local grants that directly improved patient care.
The work went beyond fundraising. I organized the Dunkin’ coffee truck for medical professionals, created craft sessions where children could decorate donuts and pumpkins, and arranged visits from mascots and NIL partners to lift spirits in children’s hospitals. I coordinated coffee and donuts during hurricane relief efforts for the amazing frontline workers: linemen, first responders, Red Cross volunteers, and community helpers. I regularly volunteered at food banks, stuffing backpacks, sorting produce, ensuring families had access to essential resources. These experiences reinforced my belief that while business drives growth, community drives purpose.
Today, as Founder of The Exquisite Pour, I’ve channeled three decades of brand expertise and community dedication into creating elevated beverage experiences for life’s most meaningful moments. Whether it’s a wedding, corporate gathering, or milestone celebration, my focus remains unchanged: crafting experiences that create connection and lasting memories.
At the heart of The Exquisite Pour is a mission that reflects everything I’ve learned: to turn every event into a celebration worth remembering, where hosts feel confident and guests feel delighted. My commitment to philanthropy continues to inspire this work, a constant reminder that true success isn’t just about building a brand, but about creating impact, spreading joy, and lifting others in the process.
The thread connecting my corporate marketing days to entrepreneurship is simple: whether I’m launching a national campaign or perfecting a signature beverage for a couple’s wedding day, it’s about understanding what matters most to people and creating experiences that honor those moments.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The journey hasn’t always been smooth. After three decades in marketing for global brands, stepping into entrepreneurship was both exhilarating and humbling. In corporate environments, you’re supported by entire teams, established systems, and proven processes. As an entrepreneur, you’re suddenly the strategist, operations manager, accountant, and everything in between. That transition challenged me in ways I hadn’t anticipated, but it also reignited my passion for building something meaningful from the ground up.
Establishing credibility in a competitive industry presented another significant hurdle. Venues and clients often maintain long-standing relationships with trusted vendors, so breaking through means showing up consistently, delivering excellence, and proving our worth one event at a time.
Now, as we continue to grow, our biggest challenge is scaling while maintaining the quality and personal touch that define The Exquisite Pour. Every interaction must reflect the care and professionalism our clients expect, which means investing deeply in training and developing our team. It’s essential that clients experience the same elevated service whether they’re working directly with me or any member of our team.
Yes, there have been obstacles, but I’ve learned to view them as valuable lessons rather than roadblocks. Each challenge has made us stronger, more intentional, and more deeply connected to our mission of creating unforgettable experiences.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
The Exquisite Pour is a mobile bartending company dedicated to elevating celebrations of every kind. From intimate weddings and corporate gatherings to milestone birthdays, bridal showers, and private events, we specialize in crafting signature beverages and curated seasonal menus that strike the perfect balance between upscale sophistication and approachable warmth.
What we’re truly known for is creating a completely stress-free experience for our clients. Our professionally trained team doesn’t simply pour drinks, we help set the tone, engage guests with genuine hospitality, and ensure the entire atmosphere feels effortless and refined. We become an extension of your celebration, anticipating needs before they arise.
What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to personalization and meticulous attention to detail. As a women-owned business, we bring a unique blend of creativity, professionalism, and authentic warmth to every event. We take time to understand each client’s vision, preferences, and guest experience goals, then craft a beverage program that reflects their personality and enhances their celebration.
What I’m most proud of is hearing clients say they could truly relax and enjoy their own event, knowing we had thoughtfully handled every detail. That trust is invaluable, and it’s what drives everything we do.
Ultimately, The Exquisite Pour is about far more than exceptional drinks, we’re in the business of creating memorable moments and lasting connections that guests will treasure long after the final toast.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Growing up, I was driven and endlessly curious, the type of kid who took pride in earning straight A’s while staying actively involved in everything from soccer (where I eventually made varsity) to jazz and tap dancing, which gave me both discipline and a creative outlet. I even did some child modeling, which was a unique and fun experience that built my confidence early on. Family has always been central to who I am, and our traditions, especially our annual 4th of July celebrations in Newport, RI were the highlights of my childhood. I loved traveling with my family, which sparked an early appreciation for new places, cultures, and the stories people share. Looking back, those formative experiences cultivated my deep love for connection, creativity, and the art of bringing people together, values that continue to drive everything I do today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://theexquisitepour.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theexquisitepour/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theexquisitepour
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@theexquisitepour
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-exquisite-pour-columbia
