Hey there! I'm Candice Mathis, the proud founder of Collectively Candice, a lifestyle brand focused on providing valuable information to a fantastic community of wine enthusiasts and those interested in lifestyle, fashion, travel, and luxury. Created in 2013, Collectively Candice has grown thanks to the incredible support of our loyal audience across various social media platforms, inspiring us every day to share credible and creative content.

Before venturing into the world of lifestyle blogging, I had the privilege of being part of the marketing team at SoFi, which (at the time) was a financial technology start-up in San Francisco. While my career was fulfilling, my heart always gravitated towards the world of wine.

In the chaotic calm of 2020, amidst unexpected events, I discovered a chance to delve deeper into my profound passion for wine. What started as an enduring interest soon turned into an extraordinary journey of self-discovery. Enrolling in a discounted course at the prestigious Hotel School of Cornell University, I realized that wine wasn't merely a hobby for me; it was a calling, a way of life.

My quest for knowledge and dedication to the world of wine have been both humbling and inspiring. From pursuing qualifications like WSET 1, in-person training at Arizona Somm School for WSET 2, The Court of Master Sommelier L1, Wine of Argentina Master Course, Wines of the US Master Course, to culminating my journey with a WSET 3 Course at the renowned Napa Valley Wine Academy, I remain committed to continuous learning and growth.

But beyond all of those formal studies, there's something truly special that drives me in the world of wine. It's all about the experiences and connections I make along the way. There's nothing quite like savoring a well-aged vintage, sharing those unforgettable moments with fellow enthusiasts, and being a part of the vibrant wine community. It's what truly makes me tick.

But when I step away from the wine world, I find solace in the simple joys of life. My family means the world to me, and that includes my precious daughter, Nixon, and my amazing husband, Kevin. And let me tell you, our loyal Weimaraner, Hemingway, is more than just a pet – he's a beloved member of our household, bringing us so much love and laughter.

During my downtime, I immerse myself in various hobbies that feed my soul. Hiking lets me connect with nature, traveling broadens my horizons, cooking allows me to create and share delicious moments, snowboarding gives me that adrenaline rush, photography captures the essence of life, and reading takes me on incredible journeys.

These activities are more than just pastimes; they add depth and meaning to my life, making it truly fulfilling. And that's what it's all about – finding joy in both the wine world and the simple pleasures of everyday living.

I am genuinely passionate about guiding and inspiring others on their own wine journeys. Whether you're looking to explore wine vacations, collect remarkable bottles, enhance your palate, or simply immerse yourself in the wine culture, I am here to share my expertise and make the world of wine more accessible.

Collectively Candice is not just a brand; it's a close-knit community of individuals brought together by our shared love for attainable and affordable luxury. I am grateful every day for the opportunity to be part of this remarkable journey. Join me as we continue to discover and celebrate the captivating world of wine together – where every step is an opportunity to learn, grow, and savor life's delightful moments.

The most current information is now being shared at @collectivelycandice and @thevinereport.