How The Good Pour Got Started

The seed for our unique concept was planted in 1994 when our co-founder Ray Horal’s mother, Marsha, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. In a moment of fear and uncertainty, Marsha reached out to the National MS Society and was met with a voice of compassion that offered her comfort and a sense of control. This powerful experience with the MS Society’s medical and emotional support became a lifelong inspiration for Ray and his wife, Giuliana. They began to envision a business that could provide that same sense of comfort and purpose — not just to a single cause, but to many.

We saw a clear opportunity to change the way people give. Many retailers ask you to round up your receipt or donate a whole dollar, which can sometimes feel a little impersonal, or even add to the guilt of a purchase. Ray and Giuliana knew there had to be a better way. Our research showed that consumers wanted choice and transparency in their giving. They want to support causes they genuinely cared about, without feeling pressured to open their wallets further.

That's why we created a retail concept where every purchase makes a difference, and every guest gets to choose which nonprofit receives the funds. The donation amount is clearly marked on every price tag and receipt, offering total transparency. We even developed our own app and software, BOHO (Buy One, Help Others), to make the charity selection process seamless and simple for everyone involved — guests and nonprofits alike.

The Good Pour is about turning transactions into connections, or as we like to say, “It’s retail with heart.” We’ve infused an elevated wine and spirits retail experience with a passion for philanthropy, creating a platform where every customer can feel the joy and fulfillment of directed giving. It's our way of proving that a business can be both successful and a genuine force for good. We’re inviting you to be a part of this story and join us in making the world a better place, one purchase at a time.