Highland Bell

Ashley McTaggart
Highland Bell offers sophisticated university glassware featuring the iconic architectural renderings of beloved universities.

We have been hard at work this summer, and we want to show off our awesome founders! Meet the startups in Class 10 of OwlSpark and Class 1 of BlueLaunch. Our #FounderSpotlightSeries continues with Highland Bell from Rice University BlueLaunch!

Tell me about your small business.

Highland Bell produces high quality university glassware with recognizable architectural patterns of iconic buildings. Our glasses are perfect for alumni, parents, family and fans.

Why did you decide to start your business or launch this product or service?

I started this business because I could never find a university glass that I wanted to use with guests at my home. I found existing ones to all be too casual. So, I decided to create my own, with images of the beautiful and unique architecture of universities. I knew it would look amazing on glasses and people would then want to use them in their home.  

What have you gotten out of this program?

I have been so impressed by the quality of the program—the experienced instructors, the relevant topics covered and amazing guest speakers. I had the idea of what I wanted to do, but I did not have a strategy on how to move forward with regards to legal, taxes, marketing, etc., but now I feel more equipped than ever to launch this business. As well, I have met so many wonderful and talented founders! 

What is your biggest accomplishment from this program? 

Throughout this program I have learned how to deal with unexpected challenges and setbacks and how to keep moving forward at the same time. 

Fun Fact!

Surprisingly, I've really enjoyed going back to school!