Samantha Dockery: The Power of Reinvention
Episode Summary
Samantha Dockery joins She Thrives with Rhonda Coleman Wandel to share how she pivoted from a 13-year career in wedding planning into founding her own sparkling wine brand. Samantha Dockery opens up about career reinvention, trusting your vision, and building a purpose-driven business rooted in impact. This episode explores entrepreneurship, personal growth, and the courage it takes to pivot into something bigger.
Key Takeaways:
You can pivot your career without starting from scratch—skills transfer
Starting before you feel ready is often the key to growth
Your network and visibility (even Instagram) can unlock real opportunities
Profit and purpose can coexist in a meaningful business
Comparison slows growth—focus on your own path
Authenticity matters more than audience size in business
Meet Samantha Dockery
Samantha Dockery is the founder of LoveLuvv Sparkling Wines, a luxury sparkling wine brand rooted in culture, celebration, and storytelling. A hospitality entrepreneur and champagne educator, she’s been featured on local Chicago TV and partners with hotels, wedding professionals, and lifestyle brands to reimagine how people experience bubbles. From pop-ups to premium pours, Samantha blends business, joy, and intention—always with a glass raised.
How She Pivoted
After 13 years in wedding planning, Samantha Dockery realized she no longer wanted a business that required her constant physical presence. She began exploring how to stay connected to celebration while creating more freedom and long-term impact. That vision led her to launch a sparkling wine brand sourced from France and Italy.
“If you really believe in your vision, the provision will come.”
Instead of waiting for perfect conditions, she leveraged what already existed—partnering with winemakers and securing exclusive blends. Her pivot was both strategic and intuitive, proving that reinvention doesn’t require starting over—just thinking differently.
Insights for Ambitious Women
Samantha Dockery reminds women that growth often requires action before certainty. Whether in business or life, waiting until you feel fully ready can keep you stuck. Her journey highlights the importance of trusting yourself and moving forward—even when it feels uncomfortable.
“Do it afraid… but do it smart.”
She also emphasizes that success isn’t about doing everything alone. Building support, seeking guidance, and staying grounded in your own vision are what sustain long-term growth—especially during career transitions and reinvention.
Listen Now
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