Help Me Become a Master Blender & Build a Legacy in Bourbon

Have you ever had a dream so strong that it shaped the way you see the world?

Mine is to become a Master Blender in the bourbon industry — to craft whiskey that tells a story, connects people, and leaves behind a legacy in every glass. Bourbon is more than a spirit to me. It’s an art, a science, and a deep-rooted tradition I’ve grown to love through every step of my career.

My journey began behind the bar at Maker’s Mark, where I discovered the joy of creating innovative cocktails and sharing them with people from all walks of life. Since then, I’ve represented Green River Whiskey at major events, proudly became the first storyteller for True Story Whiskeys, and worked side by side with some of the greatest names in the industry.

I’ve been fortunate to learn from bourbon legends — from working under Bourbon Hall of Famer Wes Henderson, to being mentored by the first female Master Taster, Peggy Noe Stevens. I’ve met trailblazers like Marianne Eaves and worked at the International Whisky Competition with Sebastian Gavillet. Each experience confirmed something I already felt deep inside: I belong in this industry — not just working in it, but helping shape its future through innovation and storytelling.

That’s why I’ve been encouraged by many of these icons to enroll in the Whiskey Masters Program, a rigorous and prestigious path that would give me the education, mentorship, and hands-on apprenticeship needed to become a Master Blender and Master Taster. This is the next step — the most critical one — toward turning my dream into a lifelong career.

But here’s the truth: I can’t do it alone.

The financial burden of this program is beyond my current means, and I’m reaching out to my community — my bourbon family — for help. Every dollar you contribute brings me closer to making this dream a reality. You're not just funding my education; you're investing in a future Master Blender who will dedicate her life to preserving and innovating the spirit we all love.

I hope to follow in the footsteps of greats like Marianne Eaves, Jane Bowie, and Stephanie Macleod — women who’ve paved the way in this historically male-dominated industry. I want to continue that work, not only by creating extraordinary whiskey, but by inspiring the next generation of dreamers like me.

If my story moved you, if you believe in the power of community and craftsmanship, I ask humbly: please consider supporting my journey.

Thank you for reading. Thank you for believing.

With love and spirit,

Savannah Elizabeth Crawford