We don’t normally reprint press releases, but Urban Garden Brewing will be the first Black-owned brewery in the DMV, and the first Black woman-owned brewery in the DMV, to have a brick and mortar location. This was announced during Black History Month, no less. Here’s to all the history to come!
UPDATE, 2/28: Right Proper says Urban Garden will contract brew RPs mixed fermentation beers like Le Flaneur and Diamonds, Fur Coat, & Champagne. UGB is targeting a summer opening, this is RPs last weekend in Shaw. RP hopes to open in a “turnkey” spot by the end of March. Will announce where soon.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Urban Garden Brewing announced that it will open its first permanent home in Shaw, taking over the former Right Proper Brewing location later this spring.
Founded by brewer and hospitality professional Eamoni Collier, Urban Garden Brewing has built a strong following through collaborations, pop ups, and community-driven programming across the District. This will mark the first time the Black women-owned brewing company operates from its own brick-and-mortar space.
The move follows a challenging chapter for the company. After its previously planned Fort Totten location fell through last year, Urban Garden Brewing regrouped and reassessed its next chapter. The opportunity to return to Shaw represents a new direction.
The Shaw location holds deep personal significance for Collier, who spent eight years working there earlier in her career. During that time, she learned the craft of brewing, developed her leadership skills, and built lasting relationships within the DC hospitality community. Now, she returns as the founder of her own company.
Over the weekend, in a video shared publicly by both companies, Right Proper co-founders Leah and Thor Cheston handed the keys to Collier, marking the transition in a gesture that reflected years of mentorship and mutual respect within the DC brewing community.
“I learned how to brew in this building,” said Collier. “To come back as the owner of my own company feels surreal. It is a reminder that even when plans fall apart, something stronger can take shape.”
Urban Garden Brewing expects to begin its transition into the space later this spring, with plans to reopen to the public shortly thereafter. The forthcoming concept will prioritize community use and inclusivity, offering a welcoming environment for beer drinkers and non-drinkers alike. Additional details about programming, partnerships, and opening dates will be shared in the coming weeks.
The announcement comes during Black History Month, underscoring the continued growth of Black women-led entrepreneurship in DC’s hospitality industry. Urban Garden Brewing will continue to provide updates as the opening approaches.
About Urban Garden Brewing LLC:
Urban Garden Brewing LLC is a trailblazing minority women-owned craft brewing and distribution company in Washington, D.C. Committed to inclusivity, culture, and empowerment, UGB merges craft beer with art, music, and local businesses to foster vibrant community experiences.
Contact:
Eamoni Collier, Founder
