Ask the Collective
The questions independent drinks founders ask most — answered. Distilled from years of community knowledge so the good stuff never disappears in the feed again.
What customer service management platforms work best for aggregating social media and email communications?
**Gorgias** is the platform members recommend for consolidating social media and email customer service communications into one inbox. One member described it as "the best" and offered referrals. **Limitations:** Gorgias does not currently support TikTok, so if TikTok customer engagement is a priority, you may need a separate workflow for that channel.
Who would you recommend as a freelance social media manager with experience handling multiple drinks brands?
Finding a great freelance social media manager who can handle multiple brands without excessive cost is challenging. Members shared mixed experiences and one concrete recommendation. **Hebe Richardson** (Instagram: @drinkswithhebe) — has worked with multiple brands simultaneously. One member noted mixed results across three brands they used her for, but acknowledged she "does the job we need right now" as a interim solution before bringing it in-house. Members agree she's reasonably priced compared to other options in the market. **Lula** — mentioned as an "amazing recco" that doesn't cost the earth; members requested details be shared directly. Members' general takeaway: the freelance social media market lacks standout practitioners, most demand high fees, and many brands treat freelancers as a temporary solution before moving to in-house management. If budget allows, getting specific personal recommendations (like Lula) rather than booking generically tends to yield better results.