BC Business
North Vancouver native Maddy Amisano studied journalism and communications at BCIT yet wound up in the food and beverage industry. In 2015, she turned her passion for baking into a business. Two years later, Amisano became the first person hired by Nude Vodka Soda shortly after it launched. Impressed by...
North Vancouver native Maddy Amisano studied journalism and communications at BCIT yet wound up in the food and beverage industry. In 2015, she turned her passion for baking into a business. Two years later, Amisano became the first person hired by Nude Vodka Soda shortly after it launched. Impressed by the company’s mission to create canned sugar-free vodka sodas, she was also drawn to Nude’s commitment to animal welfare and rescue. Soon after starting, she was promoted to head of operations.
Now called Nude Beverages, the firm has sold more than 35 million cans worth over $70 million in B.C. and Alberta, and as of October its products are available at select LCBOs in Ontario. On November 15, the first Nude advent calendar launches at BCL and select private retail liquor stores.
When Amisano isn’t operating Nude, she still finds time to bake—plus a few other things.
What is your favourite spot in B.C.?
Naramata in the summer. I love sitting on the dock with a Nude.
Where did you go on your last vacation?
My last non-work vacation was in Palm Springs, California. I loved the California sun and relaxed vibe. With Nude growing so fast within the last two years, most travel is for work. If I could transport myself somewhere right now and log off, I would be in Maui, Hawaii.
Favourite restaurant/bar?
Via Tevere—their pizzas are delicious, especially the classic margherita.
What is your most memorable podcast, film or book?
Shoe Dog written by Phil Knight, the creator of Nike, and The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment by Eckhart Tolle are tied for favourite/most memorable books.
What is your morning routine?
I start my day by checking and catching up on emails, organizing my calendar and then touching base with our executive team. There’s always so many things to get done in the day that my morning is spent prioritizing the most critical tasks. Sometimes I squeeze in a quick Yyoga class if I’m lucky.
Hobby?
When there is free time, baking is my go-to hobby to wind down from a stressful day. A few years ago, I started posting my baking photos on Instagram, and it caught the attention of my family and friends. Somehow my hobby turned into a career, and I started running my own baking business, called Amidolci. I don’t operate my baking business anymore, but I still bake cakes on special occasions for family and friends! I’m currently baking a cake for our event and brand manager, Malik.
Best advice ever received?
Treat others how you would like to be treated. It may be corny, but it is true.
Your worst job ever?
I’ve honestly never had a job that I would refer to as the “worst ever.” I’ve had roles that I didn’t enjoy all that much, but looking back, I learned a lot from every one of them. I’ve also been fortunate to work for great companies like Nude where I get to work with amazing people.
What is your favourite quote?
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” —Maya Angelou
If you could be an animal, what would you be and why?
A dog, because in general they have the best outlook on life, and they find joy in the smallest things. Also, our office dogs seem to have it pretty good!