Our Staff
Our knowledgeable wine and beer enthusiasts look forward to assisting you with the personal attention you deserve. Whether you're a frequent-shopper oenophile, or it's your first exciting foray into the world of craft beer and wine buying, our welcoming staff is ready and willing to assist.
Sebastian & Holly
Co‑Owners
Formative Fitness co-founder Sebastian Garbsch and his wife Holly are the new sole owners of Blue Goat. They have added good local wine and hidden gems from around the world so that, no matter what you are looking for, you'll find something to love. They are committed to creating a fun, welcoming and insightful store.
Coty
General Manager
A few years ago, I worked at Blue Goat as a Sales Associate, and loved the educational journey that went along with working at this iconic shop. So much so, that I was very excited to be hired back! I have lived in Traverse City for nearly all of my life, and have been working in customer service and hospitality for over 10 years. Most recently, I worked at The Workshop Brewing Company in Downtown TC, where I honed in on my craft beer knowledge, as well as gained experience in marketing and event management. In my free time I enjoy spending time outdoors hiking in the forest and camping with my dogs. You can also find me in my garden, or out fishing at one of the local, inland lakes. When spending time indoors I am usually relaxing with a science fiction novel, or experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. And of course, enjoying a fine libation from time to time! I look forward to serving you all, setting up some fun events, and learning more about fine wines. Cheers everyone!
Rick
Craft Beer Enthusiast
Rick Jaissle is a long-time beer adventurer with over 45 years of beer-drinking experience. Wherever his travels take him, he's always looking for a great new beer to share with fellow beer enthusiasts, be it craft, import or a new take on an old favorite. Prost!
Amy
Sales Associate
My name is Amy Edwardson and have loved the past few months working at the Blue Goat. Having some consumer knowledge of wine and the love of learning brought me to my part time job here. My knowledge of wine will never be fully accomplished but the learning process brings me much joy. The culture comes out of each bottle whether it is a cabernet from California or Chile. My education continues with the other experts at the Blue Goat. When I am not working at the Blue Goat you will find me gardening, reading and enjoying excellent food and culture found in Northern Michigan. You may also find me teaching high school English at Charlevoix Montessori Academy of Arts. I look forward to serving you and becoming more educated on the beer and wine at the Blue Goat.
Julie
Sales Associate
I'm Julie Kelly and I'm the newest addition to the Blue Goat Wine & Provisions staff. I'm so excited to be a part of this stellar team! I retired in 2020 after 30 years in the library sector, and wanted to be a part of a local business and the community. Blue Goat has such a loyal following, and the staff has such a rich depth of knowledge. I look forward to "drinking up" that knowledge while getting to know the Blue Goat community! In my own time, I love to run, hike, bike, spend time with family, cook, and practice with wine pairings. I also have a voracious love of traveling! I recently returned from Southern Italy, and plan to revisit Portugal in the Spring. Cheers!
Candace
Sales Associate
Hello! My name is Candace and I have been in the wine industry for half of my life. I started working in restaurants as a hostess and server when I was 14 years old. Being in the industry created a passion for wine, and since then I have obtained a Sommelier certification through the Guild of Sommeliers and am currently working towards my WSET 3. I have spent some time working in the cellar as well, to help deepen my wine knowledge. I currently live in Traverse City with my husband, stepsons, 2 dogs and a cat. When I'm not "wining" you can find me deep in a book, or spending time outside. I love complex sparkling wines, high acidic whites and reds when it's time to relax.