Cover Story: Christina Milian


By Louis Garbarini

Christina Milian, the multi-talented actress, singer, song writer and former contestant of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ adds wine brand owner to her career.  In June of 2012, Specialty Marketing Group owner and Viva Diva Wines creator, Anthony Yebba partnered with Christina Milian to grow the brand.  Their vision was to make their naturally infused Moscato one of the top selling in the United States. Quickly after adding Christina as brand partner, the brand became just that.  In participation with award show gifting suites, New York Fashion Week, store tastings and a bottle signing tour, Viva Diva Wines has seen quite a growth.  Viva Diva Wines is now available in over 15 states through the US and ships to more than 23 states online.

MM: Christina, it has been such a pleasure watching your success over the years.  Millennium Magazine readers would love to know how the opportunity came up to be a part of Viva Diva Wines:

Christina:  I was invited to a gifting suite in Los Angeles that I wasn’t planning on attending until last minute.  Viva Diva Wines was there and I met Robyn from Illumination PR who is the publicist for the brand.  She thought I would be a perfect fit for the brand.  Once I tasted it, I knew not only the name but that taste was a perfect fit for me.

MM:  What is your role in Viva Diva Wines?

Christina:  I am a brand owner and also the face of the brand as well. I have been involved in the label design, the flavor selection, the branding, the website and I assist in the retailer and distribution end too. I want to know everything that is happening and what I can do to make it even better in any business that I am in.  If my name is on it, I want it to represent who I am and Viva Diva Wines does just that.

MM:  Where can we find Viva Diva Wines?

Christina:  We are available in 15 states throughout the US and we ship to 22 states.  We just got picked up by Walmart and Sedano’s in Florida.  We are opening up New Jersey this month you should be able to find Viva in all the Home Liquor stores soon. Of course I am pretty excited that Vallarta’s in California will soon be our first retailer to open up my home state of California. It’s been a very successful start to my partnership with Viva Diva Wines.

MM: What else are you working on right now?

Christina:  In addition to Viva Diva Wines, I am partners in Platinum E Hookah.  It’s a high end hookah line that comes in a variety of flavors. Each hookah has no nicotine and no tar and the platinum collection have diamond tips. Everyone from Drake to Big Ang has enjoyed them!  They are definitely a celebrity favorite as well as a consumer favorite.

MM: You know we have to ask, when can we expect to hear some music?

Christina: This year! I have been working with incredible producers for my next album. I can’t wait for everyone to hear it.

MM: We have heard that you are engaged, what can you tell us about your love life right now?

Christina: I am in a great place right now and feel very fortunate to have so much good in my life. I am happy my daughter is happy and at the end of the day that is what is most important. We are truly enjoying the moment.

MM: What was one of the most intriguing parts of doing ‘Dancing with the Stars’?

Christina: You know DWTS wasn’t just about what a great opportunity it was it was also about conquering a fear for me.  It was an incredible opportunity for me and a little scary at the same time. I believe if anything scares you, you need to face it head on and conquer it. Dancing with the Stars was such a great experience for me and I am honored to have had the opportunity to dance with such a talented partner.

MM: Thank you for taking the time to speak to us, we wish you much continued success in 2014 and beyond!

Christina: Thank you so much!

Viva Diva Wines

 

 

 

 

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