What’s your name? What do people call you? What do you call yourself?
Rachel Payne. People call me, R-Payne, RP, Rach, or Bringin Da’. I introduce myself as Rachel.
How long have you been with Short’s and in what roles?
My Short’s first anniversary is this March. I moved to Bellaire be a part of the Short’s family last March and started as a Pubtender. During my time at the pub, I immersed myself in the Short’s culture and learned about the company’s history and beer philosophy. Over the last couple months, I have transitioned into the exciting role of being the Northern Michigan Beer Liberator.
Give us the short story of your life before your Short’s story began.
Much of my life before Short’s led me to the Short’s position I have now. I currently think of Bellaire as my home, but Grand Rapids is the home where I was raised and where much of my family resides. I attended Grand Valley State University and earned a degree in Hospitality Management, with an emphasis in Food & Beverage. For many years I have worked in restaurants to polish my customer service skills and appreciation for flavor. I fell in love with craft beer after visiting local Grand Rapids breweries and I have loved this fermented art ever since.
Favorite thing about living in Northern Michigan?
Just the fact that I get to say, “I live in beautiful Northern Michigan” is awesome. There are many aspects of Northern Michigan that make it a special place to live: the rolling hills, welcoming faces, the brightness of the stars, and the great local food and farms.
Which beer style best describes your personality?
I see myself as an India Pale Lager. This is a non-traditional style and I see myself as having a non-traditional personality. With the initial appearance being pale (I really don’t tan well), the aroma and flavors lead to something deep and flavorful. Like the beer, I have a hoppy spunk that is not too overwhelming, and much like the finish, my jokes will be dry and are not going away!
Where is your favorite place to drink a Short’s beer, and what beer would you be drinking?
My favorite drinking place, and beer, changes daily and seasonally. Cerveza de Julie is great while playing on Torch Lake, Huma Lupa Licious is best at The Short’s Pub, and a Publican Porter in the snowy Michigan hills.
Who or what inspires you and why?
My inspiration comes from all the unbelievable people I get to interact with at Short’s. Their inspiration pushes me to continue pursuing new challenges at Short’s and have helped define myself as a Short’s team member.
What’s your favorite thing or idea right now?
Thing: My dog, Zoe. Idea: A ski trip out west in the next year.
