The new girl on the block.

“I literally cried when I saw my product in a can for the first time.”

The launch of Crysteda’s all-natural vodka soda line has been a journey for founder and owner Danna Sheck. Her passion project began in her kitchen as she mixed up refreshing flavour combinations for an eager crowd of family and friends who were more than willing to taste test her creations. Fast forward a few years later, and her unique brand of ready-to-drink sparkling craft cocktails is hitting the shelves in BC and Alberta.

“The support I have received from the business community, and from women entrepreneurs and local moms has been truly heartwarming,” says Sheck. “People are so excited to support their neighbours, especially during this pandemic, which has had such an impact on small businesses.”

The Crysteda dream was born out of her home in Surrey, British Columbia (BC) and she initially focused on developing CBD-infused beverages. Cannabidiol (CBD) is non-psychoactive, but the current Canadian regulations have made it tough to enter the market. So, in 2020 she pivoted to vodka and began creating a line of natural flavour formulations that would appeal to even the most discerning vodka soda consumers.

“Taking an idea and bringing it to fruition has been the most fulfilling accomplishment,” says Sheck. “I’ve surrounded myself with an amazing team of women and we’ve built a company and a product that fits our healthy and active lifestyles.”

From Watermelon Kiwi, to Cucumber Lemon and Pineapple Hibiscus, Sheck says her beverages contain all-natural flavours, zero sugar, zero carbs, no preservatives, only 100 calories and are lightly carbonated and easy to drink.

“I wanted to create a drink that had delicious and unique flavours that people wanted to sip on their patio, by the campfire or out with friends. I’m proud to introduce the flavours I created and I’m delighted that people are now able to enjoy them. It’s an exciting time for the whole team.” She adds that while the drinks may have a female touch, they can be enjoyed by all.

The feedback she’s received so far has been overwhelming positive, as people seem ready to sip into a new state.

And, she’s not stopping here. She intends on taking her products Canada-wide in Spring 2022 and hasn’t given up on her plan to enter the CBD-infused beverage market. 

Her company is primarily lead by women and she intends on using the business knowledge she has gained to help support other women pursue their passion projects through mentorship, partnerships and other synergies.

“You definitely have to hustle and build connections, but with a lot of hard work and help from your community you really can build a great product from the ground up and make your dreams a reality.”