Through BLACK ENTERPRISE editors
March 1, 2026
Malatrice “Mali” Montgomery and Ayanna “Nikki” Carver built Vine & Olive into a four-store success, proving that passion and taste can win in a crowded marketplace.
Originally published on Black news
At a time when small retailers across the country are fighting to stay afloat, two Atlanta women are quietly building a culinary brand that’s gaining national attention.
Malatrice “Mali” Montgomery and Ayanna “Nikki” Carver, co-founders of Vine & Oliveproving that passion, community, dedication and exceptional taste can break through even the most competitive food market. The longtime friends and self-proclaimed food enthusiasts have grown their premium olive oil and balsamic vinegar business into four thriving retail locations, all while maintaining a demanding full-time career.
A brand built outside office hours, during lunch breaks and on weekends
Mali is a Certified Physician Associate and Assistant Professor, while Nikki is the General Sales Manager for a major media outlet. Unlike many food entrepreneurs who are backed by investors or free schedules, Mali and Nikki built Vine & Olive during lunch breaks, late evenings and on weekends. As Black women in a historically underrepresented corner of the gourmet food industry, they had no blueprint. All they had was the shared belief that food can bring people together and elevate everyday life.
“People always ask how we do it,” says co-founder Mali Montgomery. “The truth is, we are driven by joy. This company brings us joy and we try to pour that same joy into every bottle, every tasting and every customer experience.”
Stand out in a busy market
What started as a post-pandemic idea has become an Atlanta favorite thanks to a customer-centric model that encourages tasting, discovery and learning. Vine & Olive offers premium olive oils, flavored extra virgin oils and balsamic vinegars, all available to customers sample in the storecreating a curated culinary experience that big box stores simply can’t match.
This year alone, Vine & Olive has achieved a number of significant milestones, including:
• A cooking segment on a national TV program
• A partnership with Sarah Jakes Roberts’ Woman Evolve Conference
• Two new locations: one in Atlanta’s Ponce City Market and another on the Atlanta BeltLine (near Krog Street Market), expanding their presence to two of the city’s most popular destinations
• Their first business trial experience in partnership with KPMG
• An airport expansion that will introduce Vine & Olive to travelers around the world
Their momentum reflects an upward trend: consumers are increasingly seeking artisanal, high-quality food products with a heart and a story behind it.
Building a company that feels like a community
Each Vine & Olive storefront is designed to be warm, welcoming and approachable. No culinary intimidation, just good taste and good people.
“We don’t just sell olive oil,” says co-founder Ayanna “Nikki” Carver. “We are building a community of people who love food, love discovery and want to make everyday meals taste extraordinary.”
Customers often describe the stores as “a happy place” and praise the team for introducing them to new flavors they didn’t know they needed. That hospitality-based model ensures Vine & Olive continues to thrive even as small businesses across the country continue to feel the pinch of economic pressures.
What’s next for Vine & Olive
With a total of four locations, a fifth retail partnership on the horizon, more corporate tastings on the horizon and growing media interest, Mali and Nikki are just getting started.
Their journey is a powerful example of what is possible when passion and determination go hand in hand and when two friends decide to build something together, one bottle at a time.
About
Vine & Olive is the only olive oil brand owned by Black women based in Atlanta. It was founded by friends Malatrice “Mali” Montgomery and Ayanna “Nikki” Carver. Known for its premium olive oil, thoughtful flavor combinations and welcoming customer experience, Vine & Olive currently operates four retail locations. The company’s mission is simple: make every meal a masterpiece. Their products can be ordered online and shipped nationally at VineandOlives.com.
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