GLASGOW, Ky. (LEX NEWS) — Melanie Lopez doesn't back down from a challenge.
The Glasgow native served in the Army and spent nearly three decades in healthcare administration before taking a chance on herself — launching Bluegrass Bourbon Tours, the only woman veteran-owned bourbon tour company on the official Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
Just five years ago, the business was simply a dream.
"I had a website, that's all I had. and then I was renting from a limo company that would supply the vehicles for my bourbon tours and then after a couple of months I took out my 401k. I know financial advisors would advise against that, but when you have a dream you want to pursue that dream," Lopez said.
Now, that dream has turned into a successful business, with hundreds of tours each year and visitors traveling from across the country to experience Kentucky bourbon culture through her eyes.
Lopez says it's about more than bourbon — it's about creating unforgettable experiences and showcasing everything the Commonwealth has to offer.
Building her business in a traditionally male-dominated industry hasn't always been easy. Kentucky's bourbon industry is a more than $10 billion powerhouse — and that includes bourbon tourism.
"There are ones who have been welcoming in this male dominated space, ones that have not been so welcoming," Lopez said. "That's OK because I can make my own way. It just means I'll do things a little bit different and a little bit better."
Lopez sees her company as more than a business — she sees it as a gateway to Kentucky.
"My job is to help them to put together the perfect day and we incorporate bourbon, maybe it's a local attraction, a winery, a horse farm, or something like that," Lopez said.
This February, Lopez will celebrate five years in business, and she's focusing on giving back and inspiring other women to take a chance and chase their dreams.
"Don't be afraid and go for it. There's space for you," Lopez said.
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