Meet The Founder
Briana Pope-Pettis
Founder & Chief Education Officer, The Epicure
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I created The Epicure because I believe in democratizing access to exceptional beverage education. Whether you're beginning your journey or building toward mastery, you deserve a platform that challenges you, supports you, and elevates your craft. Everyone deserves a seat at the table—and the right tools to succeed when they get there. My own goal—to become a Master of Wine—fuels the standards I hold for myself and for the community we’re building.
WHO IS BRIANA?
Briana Pope-Pettis is a Certified Sommelier, accomplished food and beverage educator, and the visionary force behind The Epicure. With over a decade of experience across hospitality, wine education, and beverage program development, she launched The Epicure to transform how the next generation learns about wine, spirits, and mixology—through structured, high-quality education that meets today’s standards and tomorrow’s demands.
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Briana holds a Bachelor of Science in Culinary, Sustainability, and Hospitality, and has earned multiple beverage certifications across wine, spirits, and cocktails. Her academic background, paired with hands-on industry leadership, allows her to bridge the gap between theory and practice—creating educational experiences that are both rigorous and accessible.
Driven by a deep passion for continuous learning, Briana is currently on a path to become a Master of Wine, one of the most prestigious titles in the global wine industry. Her commitment to academic excellence and professional development is embedded into every aspect of The Epicure’s programming.
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As Founder and Chief Education Officer, Briana leads curriculum design, faculty development, and strategic partnerships. She believes that food and beverage education should be inclusive, forward-thinking, and rooted in real-world application. Her goal is to empower students, educators, and professionals with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to excel.