Amidst the chaos of traveling, cooking and eating, Thanksgiving is about taking a moment to reflect on what we’re grateful for. Whether it’s friends and family or the simple fact that we survived another year, Thanksgiving reminds us to appreciate life’s little quirks and the people who make it all worthwhile. This year, three of our founders, Hans Brand, Autumn Shelton and Hanna Brand, share their Thanksgiving message of gratitude this holiday season.
Hans Brand, CEO
“The Thanksgiving holiday is something we learned about when we moved to the US in 1985. Our first Thanksgiving was magical as we had no idea what to expect; we got a full dose of American hospitality, learned all the traditions and ate way too much food. (Fun Fact: Thanksgiving was also the first and the last time I watched American Football).
“Now, we still prioritize our family time and make sure to stand still and smell the roses, reflecting on what has been and what is hopefully coming. Hanna and I have been the all-star team for the past 20+ years in charge of Turkey for our families—great memories and many laughs!
“This year we are thankful to add my son Johnny’s new wife Madison to our family (including her family) and will enjoy celebrating with our new expanded family.”
Autumn Shelton, Chief Financial Officer
“This year, I’m thankful for all the fun and innovative projects I got to work on. Collaborating with the band Iration to pair music and cannabis provided for a lot of feel-good moments as our two groups united. It was incredible to see my vision of four harmonious products come to life as Autumn Brands’ now melt range inspires us all to dive deeper into self and partner care.
“I’m grateful for the three deep female bonding trips I was able to sneak away to in Cuba, Hawaii and to see my childhood icon, Madonna, perform in Vegas. I’m grateful for all the time I spent in nature with family and friends at the lake, beach, in the mountains and a road trip through California and Oregon.
“I am grateful for the strength to recognize how toxic wine (alcohol) was for me and end the unhealthy yoyo that it created, allowing me to now understand true balance. I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve on the board of the California Cannabis Industry Association over the last two years, advocating for a magical plant that helps people in so many ways. I am so grateful for our Autumn Brands team, which has dedicated their days to our company’s vision, ethos, and desire to go beyond what’s expected.”
Hanna Brand, Chief Sales Officer
“This year, I’m thankful for the support system I have from my family and friends. It has been a year of ups and downs with big changes and a growing family.
“I’m thankful to have a new sister-in-law who has been a best friend since I met her, the support and love from my parents and some of the best friends I could ask for. I’m thankful for my health and am excited to be on my alcohol-free journey, which is helping to find new ways and settings to incorporate cannabis instead of drinking.
“I’m ending the year in such a positive space and excited to continue to push myself in 2025.”