Mocktail Expert | Flavor Innovator | Wellness Enthusiast | Age 38
Northeast New England, Maine–based mocktail specialist who believes a great drink doesn’t need alcohol to be unforgettable.
My Story
I didn’t grow up thinking I’d be a recognized mocktail expert. For years, I worked in hospitality, where elaborate cocktails got the spotlight while those avoiding alcohol were offered nothing more than soda or water. That never felt right — every celebration should have delicious non-alcoholic drinks worth toasting.
My passion for flavor and inclusivity grew when I began creating mocktail recipes at home, using seasonal Maine produce, garden herbs, and spices from my travels. Soon, friends and family were asking for “Maraia specials” at every gathering, sparking my mission to make alcohol-free cocktails as exciting as any drink on the menu.
The Turning Point
Everything changed at a wedding in Bar Harbor. Guests with no-alcohol preferences — including a pregnant woman and a teenager — were sipping plain water while others enjoyed vibrant cocktails. That was my “aha” moment.
The next week, I launched a pop-up event mocktail bar at a local festival. People lined up not because they couldn’t drink alcohol, but because my seasonal mocktails looked and tasted incredible. That’s when I realized: mocktails aren’t a compromise — they’re a choice.
What I Learned the Hard Way
Early on, I learned that creating alcohol-free cocktails with real depth takes skill. Too sweet, and they felt juvenile; too bland, and they were forgettable. I spent months perfecting balance — acidity, sweetness, aroma — while convincing some venues that mocktail catering deserved the same respect as cocktails.
My Approach Now
Today, I treat every mocktail like a chef treats a signature dish. I start with a theme — maybe a coastal-inspired blueberry thyme fizz or a winter pear and cinnamon spritz — then build layers of flavor, color, and aroma.
I believe mocktail recipes should be accessible, so I share seasonal guides and pairing tips on mocktaila.com to inspire people to create their own non-alcoholic drinks at home.
What I Believe
- Non-alcoholic drinks should be just as creative and complex as cocktails.
- Celebrations deserve inclusive beverage options for everyone.
- Seasonal, fresh ingredients create the best mocktail recipes.
- A well-crafted drink can tell a story and evoke emotion.
- Alcohol-free cocktails can be both sophisticated and fun.
How I Can Help You
If you’re planning a wedding, corporate event, or private party, I can design a customized mocktail menu that will impress every guest. I offer mocktail catering services, hands-on mixology workshops, and live event mocktail bars.
On mocktaila.com, you’ll also find free mocktail recipes, seasonal inspiration, and my signature flavor-pairing charts to help you master your own non-alcoholic cocktails. My mission is to make mocktails an unforgettable part of any occasion.
A Little More About Me
When I’m not crafting seasonal mocktails, I’m hiking Maine’s coastal trails, tending my herb garden, or exploring global flavors like Moroccan mint tea and Japanese yuzu. I’m passionate about hospitality, nature, and turning everyday moments into celebrations.
Let’s Connect
Whether you’re curious about creating non-alcoholic cocktails for your next event or looking for expert mocktail recipes, I’d love to collaborate. Let’s raise a glass — no alcohol required.
Get In Touch
Visit mocktaila.com or email contact@mocktaila.com to start planning your perfect mocktail experience.
