In the heart of Denver, North Carolina, a brewery emerged not from a master brewer’s dream, but from the collaborative vision of two experienced entrepreneurs with a shared love for craft beer.
Ginger and Larry Griffin didn’t set out to join the booming craft beer movement. Yet today, Royal Bliss Brewing Company stands as one of the area’s most beloved breweries—offering not just flavorful, drinkable beer, but an atmosphere of warmth, creativity, and connection.
Their journey shows what’s possible when professional expertise meets personal passion—and how blending past success with fresh ambition can build something truly remarkable.
From Tire Shops to Tap Handles
Before craft beer, Ginger Griffin ran her own marketing agency for 23 years, having previously worked in corporate marketing after graduating from Appalachian State University. She’s a Cornelius native whose creative skills laid the foundation for the brewery’s brand, website, and visual identity.
Larry Griffin, meanwhile, spent decades in the family business—Griffin Brothers Tire Sales—growing it to 10 stores and managing 150 employees before selling it just a few years ago. With a background in business administration from UNCC, Larry brought deep operational knowledge and a service-first mindset.
After stepping away from their previous careers, they were ready to do something fun and fulfilling. Craft beer, it turned out, would become their shared path forward.
Photo credit: Royal Bliss Brewing Co.
Falling in Love with Craft Beer—and Each Other’s Skills
The Griffins’ love for breweries began as a shared hobby—weekend dates spent visiting taprooms with great beer, inviting spaces, and preferably, food menus. That experience shaped their vision early on.
They noticed something important: if a brewery didn’t serve food, they rarely stayed beyond two drinks. That insight stuck with them.
As they explored the idea of starting their own brewery, it became clear their skill sets were complementary. Ginger would lead branding and marketing. Larry would handle operations and build the business around exceptional customer service.
They weren’t brewers—but they didn’t need to be. They were builders. And they knew how to find the right people.
Photo credit: Royal Bliss Brewing Co. (Instagram)
Building the Right Team to Fill in the Gaps
Their first key hire was brewmaster Chris Workman. A seasoned brewer from Charlotte’s Unknown Brewing, Chris brought a depth of expertise that perfectly matched the Griffins’ vision.
Chris didn’t just join the team—he helped shape its identity. From the flagship citrus beer to the full lineup of drinkable, approachable brews, his work struck a balance between craft and consistency.
Another vital contributor was Gianni Nassio Pinto, Ginger’s former art director. He had previously worked at her agency and returned to help design the Royal Bliss brand, logo, and marketing assets. Gianni wore many hats at Royal Bliss before moving on, from social media to event coordination.
Their executive chef also had ties to their early brewery visits—he ran their favorite food truck. Now, he crafts a fresh, thoughtful menu from a compact kitchen, proving great food doesn’t require a massive footprint.
Photo credit: Royal Bliss Brewing Co. (Instagram)
Designing a Space That Reflects Vision, Not Just Function
Royal Bliss Brewing sits at the intersection of Highway 73 and Business 16, in the Waterside Crossing commercial development. Just minutes from Cornelius and Huntersville, it offers an easy and scenic destination for locals and visitors alike.
The space is designed to enhance both comfort and community. With multiple outdoor areas—including a beer garden, upper terrace, and patio—the brewery can seat more guests outside than inside. That became especially valuable during the pandemic.
Inside, the brewery offers full table service. While guests are welcome to order at the bar, most prefer the personalized experience delivered by handheld-equipped servers—a unique twist for a brewery and a testament to the Griffins’ service-driven approach.
Photo credit: Royal Bliss Brewing Co. (Instagram)
Turning a Pandemic Setback into a Soft Launch Advantage
Royal Bliss Brewing opened on March 26, 2020—just two weeks into the COVID-19 pandemic. It wasn’t ideal timing, but it forced a soft launch that ultimately helped shape their success.
Because their beer was ready, they launched with takeout-only, serving food and growlers directly to the community. The response was overwhelmingly positive.
That quiet opening gave them time to refine operations, train staff, and prepare for in-person guests. When Phase Two regulations arrived, Royal Bliss was ready to welcome customers safely and confidently.
With expansive outdoor seating and strong demand, the brewery adapted quickly—serving the community when it needed connection most.
Photo credit: Royal Bliss Brewing Co. (Instagram)
“In Life & Beer, Balance is Bliss.”
Royal Bliss Brewing wasn’t born from a lifelong dream to make beer. It was built by two professionals who saw an opportunity to create something meaningful together.
By combining their complementary skills, surrounding themselves with a talented team, and listening closely to their community, Ginger and Larry Griffin created more than just a brewery—they created a gathering place.
Royal Bliss Brewing is proof that passion, when paired with purpose and experience, can create something that lasts.
Royal Bliss Brewing Co.
7532 Royal Bliss Ct
Denver, NC 28037
(704) 951-8388
About the Author:
Jeff Hamm is the creator and producer of The Best of LKN podcast, blog, YouTube channel, and email newsletter.
When he isn’t working, you can usually find him boating, cycling local greenways & trails, and taking walks with his dogs Sam and Maisy.
Jeff Hamm
Allen Tate Realtors®
Charlotte & Lake Norman, NC
www.LKNreal.com
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