We’re just happy to be here.
Our co-founders Mark and Meagen got married on the island of Martinique, where they first discovered the tradition of rhum arrangé, a method of infusing rum with local citrus, fruits, botanicals, and spices to showcase unique and versatile flavors of the surrounding region. Back in New Orleans, their best friend and next door neighbor Peter joined forces in their crazy daydream: “What if we actually did the thing that really makes us happy…all the time?”. Together, they started the (long and red-taped) process of opening a distillery one day at a time. They also came up with the name of their new company, in honor of Mark and Meagen's baby son who shrieked like a velociraptor from a beloved well-known and copyrighted dinosaur movie. Let's just say that life...um...finds a way.
After several more years of travels, trial & error, recipe testing, more babies, fundraising, and lots more rum tasting, Happy Raptor finally opened its doors in Central City on February 14, 2020. You know there’s more to this story…You’ll just have to come pay us a visit.
Our Mission
Happy Raptor Distilling is a woman-owned distillery in New Orleans dedicated to the creation of handcrafted premium infused 504Rum inspired by our culture, our community, and the moments that bring us joy.
As one of the only craft distilleries in the United States specializing in infused rum-making, our signature lines of 504Rum and 504Syrups are handcrafted from 100% Louisiana molasses and cane sugar with no artificial ingredients or unnecessary added sweeteners.
Our Vision
Through our dedicated production of carefully handcrafted premium infused rum and specialized beverage products, Happy Raptor Distilling is proudly the leading New-Orleans based craft distillery nationwide, with spirited and non-alcoholic products accessible throughout the Gulf South and markets throughout the United States. As a philanthropic leader in the New Orleans and greater Louisiana community, we further our mission by prioritizing equity, inclusivity, personal health and well-being, and joy first and foremost for our team, our partners, and our guests.
Our Core Values
Adaptability, Accountability, Growth,
Connection, Trust, & Pride