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In this episode of Greetings From the Garden State, host Mike Ham visits Varitage Brew Works in Bloomfield, NJ, to chat with Mark Costa, the owner and head brewer. Mark shares the story behind the brewery, its unique soccer-inspired theme, and the journey that led him from his roots in Nutley to becoming a key player in Bloomfield's local business landscape. He also dives into the trials of launching the brewery, collaborating with local partners, and creating a community-centric space.

Key Topics:

• Introduction & Setting the Scene: Mike kicks off from Varitage Brew Works with Mark Costa, marking the podcast’s first-ever Bloomfield episode.
• Varitage’s Origin Story: Mark reflects on Varitage Brew Works’ recent one-year anniversary, blending his passion for soccer with a European-industrial vibe that welcomes both soccer enthusiasts and casual visitors.
• Regulatory Hurdles: The challenges of navigating NJ's brewery regulations, from limited TV usage to licensing delays.
• The Bloomfield Connection: Why Mark chose Bloomfield as the home for Varitage, highlighting his deep-rooted ties to the town and its evolving community landscape.
• Mark’s Journey: From playing college soccer at Caldwell University and coaching at Belleville to touring as a musician and working in advertising.
• From Home Brewing to Entrepreneurship: How Mark’s homebrewing experiments, supported by honest feedback from family and competitive accolades, paved the way for Varitage.
• The Build-Out Struggles: The unexpected obstacles faced during construction, including landlord changes, delays, and the eventual triumph of opening day.
• Creating Signature Beers: Insight into flagship brews and rotating selections, along with popular collaborations like the holiday-themed peppermint bark porter using Holston’s chocolate.
• Community Engagement: Upcoming plans for Varitage’s Christmas market and outdoor beer garden events, fostering a stronger community connection.
• Honoring Heritage: The importance of Mark’s Portuguese-Italian heritage and family’s immigrant story in shaping Varitage’s identity.
• Looking Forward: Mark’s ambitions for future events, expanding distribution, and enhancing the brewery’s role as a local gathering place.

Connect with Varitage Brew Works:

• Website: VaritageBeer.com
• Instagram: @VaritageBeer
• Visit: 58 Washington Street, Bloomfield, NJ (next to the train station)
• App: Available on Google Play and Apple Store for exclusive updates and deals.

Closing Thoughts: Mark’s journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and community support. Tune in to hear more about how Varitage Brew Works is brewing not just beer but a sense of belonging in Bloomfield.

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
jacksonpines.com

Thank you to our sponsors:
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Meghan Carroll Realtor: MCSellsbytheSea.com

Albert & Whitney CPAs:  awcpasllc.com

Mayo Performing Arts Center: mayoarts.org/events-calendar

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