Introducing Rachyl: A powerhouse mother of two dominating in diverse realms. An award-winning homebrewer, advocate for equality, inclusivity, and pioneering influencer, she's a cornerstone of Tacoma and the Craft Beer Community, known for her educational leadership and boundless creativity
- Rachyl Fojtik -
Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Washington state, Rachyl Fojtik's story is one of passion, perseverance, and a deep-rooted love for craft beer. A Washington State Native, Rachyl's journey from a local enthusiast to a prominent figure in the craft beer industry is nothing short of inspiring.
Growing up in the Tacoma/Puget Sound area, Rachyl's early years were marked by the stunning natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. As a student at Mount Tahoma High School, she already showed signs of determination and a thirst for adventure. Following her graduation, she made a bold move by joining the Army Reserves to pursue a career as a field medic. However, as she underwent rigorous training across various states, Rachyl found herself drawn to something unexpected: the vibrant world of craft beer.
While traversing different corners of the country for her training, Rachyl began to explore the local beer scenes, captivated by the creativity and passion that infused every brewery she visited. This newfound interest sparked her curiosity, leading her to delve into the art of homebrewing. With each batch she brewed, Rachyl not only honed her skills but also deepened her appreciation for the intricate science behind crafting the perfect brew. At one point in the podcast she had this to say about her feelings of getting into homebrewing, “That experience motivated me even more. It felt like it was all mine, and I realized I could start from scratch. Look at me—I brewed this beer. It was a huge confidence boost in my life. It felt empowering, truly empowering. Yeah, it felt incredible.”
Her journey into homebrewing marked the beginning of Rachyl's ascent in the craft beer community. Armed with her growing expertise and infectious enthusiasm, she quickly became a familiar face in Tacoma's craft beer scene. Whether she was serving customers or educating them about different beer styles, Rachyl's vibrant personality and unwavering dedication earned her widespread recognition and admiration.
But Rachyl didn't stop there. Fuelled by her passion for both beer and education, she embarked on a mission to share her knowledge with a wider audience. Thus, BeersandBedtime was born—a platform where Rachyl, as a single mother, shared her insights into craft beer after putting her children to bed. Through her social media presence, she not only reached thousands of followers but also established herself as a respected authority in the industry.
“That experience motivated me even more. It felt like it was all mine, and I realized I could start from scratch. Look at me—I brewed this beer. It was a huge confidence boost in my life. It felt empowering, truly empowering. Yeah, it felt incredible.”
As Rachyl's influence burgeoned, so did her opportunities. She took on the mantle of managing social media for two major production breweries in Washington state, further solidifying her status as a prominent creative force in the craft beer community. But, let’s start with the roots; 7 Seas Brewing Company in Gig Harbor, WA.
Having immersed herself in Tacoma's vibrant craft beer scene, Rachyl ventured behind the bar at 7 Seas Brewing just as they acquired the historic Heidelberg Brewing Company building. Serving pints to Tacoma locals, she showcased her expertise and flair, not only in bartending but also in the strategic realm of social media management. Rachyl's adeptness in both areas propelled her to curate and elevate the brewery's social content, amplifying engagement and solidifying 7 Seas Brewing's position within Tacoma's brewery network.
In her dual role at 7 Seas Brewing, Rachyl collaborated with both front-of-house staff and brewers to implement a tasting panel, fostering an educational bridge between brewery operations and customer service teams, enriching their understanding of the brewing process and the beers they served.
As years passed, Rachyl's thirst for knowledge and ambition burgeoned, leading her to pursue a Social Media Marketing role at Silver City Brewing, a prominent production brewery in the Puget Sound. This career move not only expanded her professional horizons but also provided access to a wealth of educational opportunities and experiences, from managing social media campaigns to engaging in sensory and quality control workshops.
Amidst her multifaceted growth, Rachyl felt a stirring within—a desire to achieve something greater, not just for herself but also to inspire her children and the wider community. Fueled by passion and creativity, she embarked on a new venture, founding the Social Karma Collective—a women-owned social media management and consulting business—where her entrepreneurial spirit continues to thrive, leaving an indelible mark on the industry and beyond.
Today, Rachyl remains as fervent and committed as ever. Whether she's nurturing her flourishing business endeavors or engrossed in lively discussions about craft beer at her favorite local haunt, her contagious enthusiasm and passion for the industry continues to make an enduring impression for those she encounters.
Amidst the dynamic tapestry of Washington's craft beer realm, Rachyl Fojtik emerges as a testament to the potency of passion, perseverance, and an authentic devotion to one's craft. Her odyssey serves as a beacon of inspiration for budding entrepreneurs and aficionados alike, underscoring the truth that with steadfast dedication and an insatiable thirst for knowledge, the realm of possibilities knows no bounds. So, should you find yourself in Tacoma, keep a keen eye out for Rachyl—her next expedition into the world of craft beer might just lead you to unexpected and delightful discoveries.
In the landscape of the Puget Sound's craft beer community, marked by its steadfast community, perpetual evolution, and upward trajectory, there's a sense of assurance knowing that individuals like Rachyl are actively contributing to its vitality. As this craft beer community continues to flourish, Rachyl and many others serve as stewards, shepherding it into uncharted territories with their innovation, passion, and commitment. Their collective efforts not only enrich the beer scene but also foster a sense of camaraderie and growth, propelling the industry towards a brighter and more promising future. We're eagerly anticipating Rachyl's next chapter and are stoked to watch her future endeavors unfold.
All images showcased in this article have been employed with explicit permission from Rachyl Fojtik (@beersandbedtime) who retains the copyrights for these images.
