Our Team
Behind every pour, every handshake, and every moment that turns into a story… there’s a team making it all happen.
The Texas Whiskey Festival isn’t built by one person—it’s brought to life by a group of friends and collaborators with one goal in mind: to create a night where Texas whiskey feels a little closer, a little more connected, and a lot more memorable.
We take the work seriously—because the details matter. But we don’t take ourselves too seriously—because this only works if it feels like a good time.
So if you’ve ever had a glass in hand and thought, “this feels easy”…
That’s not by accident. That’s the team.
Jake Clements
The co-founder and driving force behind the Texas Whiskey Festival. What started as an idea has grown into the go-to gathering for Texas whiskey, built on the belief that the real magic isn’t just in the glass, but in the people who share it. A whiskey sommelier, event creator, and collaborator, he has worked closely with distilleries to shape experiences and bring whiskey to life. Known for his warm, witty style, Jake turns every pour into something shared, memorable, and a little more connected.
Co-Founder & Head Hombre
Michelle Clements
Behind the Texas Whiskey Festival is a shared vision shaped from the ground up with Michelle Clements, whose steady leadership and thoughtful perspective help guide what the experience becomes each year. What started as an idea has been refined through collaboration, bringing clarity, intention, and a sense of what makes the night truly work. By day, she serves as Vice President of Enterprise Marketing for Spectrum Reach, with more than 30 years of experience guiding strategy and growth. She may not drink whiskey — you’ll usually find her with a glass of wine — but as the festival’s panel moderator, she keeps the conversation flowing just as well as the pours.
Co-Founder & Head Señora
Managing Partner & El CapatazMitch Royer
Part of the team that brings the Texas Whiskey Festival from plan to reality the moment it begins. He leads registration and volunteers, keeping the day moving smoothly and making sure every guest feels welcomed from the start. A serial entrepreneur with a high-energy, people-first style, he brings both organization and momentum to the experience. When the work settles, you’ll likely find him with a pour of bourbon, enjoying the same atmosphere he helps create.