Pour Your Passion into Something Greater. - Real Owners. Real Success Stories. -

What was your occupation prior to becoming a franchisee with The Brass Tap?
I previously served as the Director of IT operations in the healthcare IT industry, where I oversaw complex systems, teams, and large-scale operational initiatives.

What inspired you to become a franchisee?
I've always had a lifelong dream of owning an upscale bar, but beyond that personal passion, the franchise model offered a structured and supportive path for making a major career change. After stepping away from corporate leadership role, I was looking for something with more purpose and hands-on impact, and franchising provided a proven framework to transition smoothly while still allowing me to build something of my own.

What do you enjoy most about owning The Brass Tap?
Offering a thrill for those who enjoy working under pressure and constantly interacting with new people. Serving community and providing jobs to support as many families as we can. Unlike other franchises, The Brass Tap franchisor team has fantastic access to ongoing mentorship, marketing support, and operational guidance.

Does hosting events and serving as a local social gathering place play a role in your success? If so, how?
Absolutely, hosting events and serving as a local gathering place plays a major role in our business's success. This provides more foot traffic and awareness (more exposure, higher likelihood of repeat visits and word-of-mouth promotion) and stronger community connections (loyalty, trust and a sense of attachment to the business/brand).

How has your life changed since becoming a franchisee?
Becoming a franchisee has changed my life in several meaningful ways — both personally and professionally: Greater sense of ownership and pride, stronger connection with the community, increased responsibility and growth, more control over my time, financial potential and long-term stability, fulfillment in building and leading a dream team.

What was your occupation prior to becoming a franchisee with The Brass Tap?
Global Agribusiness Director.

What inspired you to become a franchisee?
After retiring early from a career in Supply Chain Management, I was looking for an opportunity to own a business. I had previous franchise experience and The Brass Tap model was the best fit for the opportunity that we had identified.

What do you enjoy most about owning The Brass Tap?
I enjoy hosting special events. We've hosted holiday parties, baby showers, graduation parties, and more. Guests trust us to deliver a great experience for their special occasions, and it's satisfying to see them enjoying those special moments.

Does hosting events and serving as a local social gathering place play a role in your success? If so, how?
Yes. Before opening our location, I established our vision as "Monterey Bay's destination for social gathering." I always wanted to be known as more than a craft beer or sports bar.

How has your life changed since becoming a franchisee?
We are well-established in the community, and people recognize us wherever we go.

What was your occupation prior to becoming a franchisee with The Brass Tap?
I am an adult and pediatric registered cardiac sonographer.

What inspired you to become a franchisee?
We were looking into a second business, and knew we wanted to open a bar/restaurant. After doing a bit of research, we found The Brass Tap was the perfect fit for us. We visited with the CEO and corporate staff and really felt we were a perfect match for each other.

What do you enjoy most about owning The Brass Tap?
I love the sense of community, the support and positivity, and the opportunity to be a place for friends and family to gather and enjoy themselves.

Does hosting events and serving as a local social gathering place play a role in your success? If so, how?
Yes, hosting events and social gatherings is part of our culture, and part of the root of who we are. Our community has given a lot of positive feedback and really enjoys participating and being a part of our events!

How has your life changed since becoming a franchisee?
I've definitely felt my confidence increase since becoming a franchisee. Coming from a different industry was a bit intimidating, but with the support of family, friends, our community, and FSC, I've grown comfortable and confident in this role.

What was your occupation prior to becoming a franchisee with The Brass Tap?
I retired from the Naval Criminal Investigative Service as The Deputy Director in Jun 2016 when Sharon and I began our journey with FSC and The Brass Tap brand. Sharon retired as The Executive Director of the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, Department of Veterans Affairs in 2024.

What inspired you to become a franchisee?
For years I was a home brewer and Sharon ventured into brewing wine. Upon Mark's retirement we looked for a new challenge, while Sharon continued to serve the government. We searched many franchise opportunities and settled on The Brass Tap. Studied many franchise concepts and models and Sharon and I agreed FSC/The Brass Tap was the right choice because of low royalty rates, low overhead and a well-designed business model that capitalizes on maximum growth.

What do you enjoy most about owning The Brass Tap?
As a military brat and a government employee who transferred frequently, we deeply enjoy being part of a community and delivering a service to a community new to our county. Our location is in Prince George's County, well known as one of the most affluent places for African Americans in the world. Craft beer hasn't generally been a thing in the Black community; it's refreshing to deliver a new concept and influence new experiences for our extremely diverse customer base. We have people from all cultures and walks of life and very much enjoy seeing them try new things and engage with each other in such a positive manner.

Does hosting events and serving as a local social gathering place play a role in your success? If so, how?
Yes, community involvement plays a significant role in our success. Recently, we hosted a Black History Month event that brought together a dynamic mix of community partners and experiences. The evening included hosting the National Contract Management Association conference, a tap takeover from a local Washington, D.C. brewery, and bourbon tastings from a Black-owned distiller whose product is featured by the Washington Commanders. We also welcomed a local Black-owned cigar vendor showcasing his own line.

The event created an engaging and interactive atmosphere, with Sharon and me personally connecting with guests alongside each of our partners. Experiences like this strengthen our ties to the community and highlight the meaningful impact of collaboration.

How has your life changed since becoming a franchisee?
The Brass Tap has been life changing for us. We have been extremely successful and have been able to increase our financial wealth markedly. More importantly, as the only Black Bar/Restaurant in the National Harbor, it enhances our worth in the community. We are immensely proud of being a part of a community after traveling so much in our government careers and upbringing. It feels remarkable to be a part of such a diverse community that enjoys the same type of environment that we've built at The Brass Tap National Harbor. FSC is a remarkable organization that practices what it preaches. The support from the parent company is unprecedented and provides the knowledge to develop, grow and sustain positive business opportunities. Again we looked at many concepts, but we settled on the best option for us and reaped the rewards accordingly.