(Will & Courtney at The Garage Brewery)
By Leisa Rebold
Will Sawyer, who was voted Hampton Roads’ Coolest Brewer at Veer Magazine’s Golden Tap Beer awards in December 2023, proposed to his girlfriend, Courtney, who also works in the beer industry, in a unique and heartfelt way. Proving not only is he the coolest brewer but also a very cool romantic.
Inspired by the old-fashioned Chick -O-Stick candy his sweetheart loves. Will, with Courtney’s help, created and brewed a special English Brown Ale incorporating carefully chosen grains to subtly bring out the peanut butter and toasted coconut notes that are reminiscent of the candy. Without Courtney knowing, Will planned a surprise proposal party at The Garage Brewery in Chesapeake where he is the Head Brewer, and has worked since it opened.
Family and friends hid in the brew house and then all casually strolled out as he began to ask for his beloved’s hand in marriage. Unbeknownst to Courtney, he named the beer “Will You Marry Me.” Courtney was very surprised and touched by the gesture.
She said yes.
The English Brown Ale is currently on tap.
