The holiday season is here, bringing with it the spirit of gift-giving, gathering with loved ones, and reflecting on the blessings of the past year. In line with these themes, Vegas Wellness Magazine had the pleasure of chatting with Josh Grant, co-creator of “The Bottle Blazer”. This unique product combines the perfect gift idea, a thriving startup, and a family-driven business, leading to new opportunities and continued success for Josh and his uncle James. Here is the story of how Josh’s uncle’s inventive idea turned into a must-have smoking accessory…
Jennifer Walker: Tell us a little bit about your product, The Bottle Blazer. Where did the idea come from, and how did the business get started? How has it been going so far?
Josh Grant: The Bottle Blazer was born out of a quirky idea from my Uncle, James Grant, back in October 2022. It all started with a collection of beer bottles he had from a local radio station. My Aunt eventually told him he needed to either do something with the bottles or toss them out. Initially, he considered making lamps or wind chimes, but then he wondered, "Could I turn these into a bong?" That curiosity sparked a creative journey. By Christmas 2022, he had a working prototype cast from brass metal.
When my wife and I saw it, we instantly recognized its consumer potential. While my uncle initially made a few as gifts, we soon began brainstorming how to turn this fun idea into a real business. That’s how The Bottle Blazer was born. We spent 4-5 months refining materials and designs, setting up the business, securing patents and trademarks, and preparing for retail. By November 2023, we launched our website, and The Bottle Blazer officially hit the market.
Since then, we’ve seen success online, through social media, viral videos, consumer festivals, and even with wholesale customers. The Bottle Blazer is proudly designed, manufactured, assembled, and shipped in Saint Charles, Missouri, by my uncle and me.
JW: The Bottle Blazer seems like a really innovative product. How does it work, and what are some of its unique features?
JG: The Bottle Blazer is a versatile and easy-to-use smoking accessory that fits into almost any bottle, instantly transforming it into a handheld smoking device. It’s perfect for home use, gatherings, travel, and outdoor activities. We crafted it from high-temp, food-grade silicone, paired with medical-grade stainless steel for durability.
Key design elements include a cool-touch bowl grip and a built-in carb, allowing users to control their hits easily with just a thumb. The product is simple, with no moving parts, and is easily disassembled for cleaning, storage, and travel. Currently, it’s available in six colors: Green, Red, Blue, Yellow, Black, and Pink.
JW: What challenges have you encountered as you launched your business, and what positive outcomes have arisen since introducing The Bottle Blazer?
JG: Like any new venture, our main challenge has been building awareness around a product most people haven’t seen before. Generating sales and getting the word out has been an ongoing effort. However, the consumer response has been incredibly positive. We’ve attended several consumer events and festivals where people praised The Bottle Blazer for its functionality and unique design. It’s a real conversation starter!
Most of our success has come from people who try it firsthand; they love how it works and how convenient it is. We’ve also sponsored local events, traveled outside our area to promote it, and been accepted to major b2b trade shows, including Champs Las Vegas 2023. It’s been humbling and exciting to receive such support and recognition.
JW: Do you have any other products on the horizon, or any special plans for The Bottle Blazer during the holidays and beyond?
JG: For now, we’re focused on The Bottle Blazer and ensuring it gains steady traction. Our goal is to use the momentum from its success to drive future product expansions. We are planning special holiday discounts and packages, which will be available on our website. Customers can subscribe to stay up-to-date on current and future deals.
JW: How can readers learn more about The Bottle Blazer and stay connected with your brand?
JG:
Socials: @thebottleblazer
Google: The Bottle Blazer
Wholesale Opportunities: Orders.groovygadgets@gmail.com
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