Hoping to find someone to split a reserve society membership, possibly trustee for me as well. I know how much of a pain this is, but I hope I can help. I live in the "exclusive" US-Southwest region beer market. Having said that, I actually have access to a couple real decent local breweries (Jester King, Southern Star, Karbach, Adelbert, Austin Beerworks, No Label, NorthxNorthwest, Rahr and Sons, Ranger Creek, St Arnold) I dont have many trades under my belt, because I am a broke grad student. But Im not a jerk and I promise to hunt all over texas for any rare release you want. Please help.
I'm not usually one to criticize other peoples financial decisions, but, posting that you are a "broke grad student" is not very compatible with the Bruery Reserve Society. I'm not saying it can't be done, because it can. But, when every month the Bruery is sending you emails about the newest tasty allocation and it's something you MUST have, then you mentally weigh the cost/benefits of spending above your means every month. It's just not worth it man. The Bruery Reserve Society is great and I'm very happily a member, but if you are a self admittedly "broke grad student" you don't want to put yourself in the position of making the decision to either max out your Black Tuesday allocations or having enough money to eat the next month. I'll repeat that it's just not worth even giving yourself that option and temptation.
I dont know what else to say but, you're wrong. I can have "Rich caramel, toasted malt, vanilla, burnt wood, anise" paired with a nice noodle dish every night
weatherdog does bring up a valid point. If you can handle the finances or restraint then join away. However, weatherdog is right that the RS is not a poor man's game, especially considering shipping and thank you boxes. The membership being $300 alone isn't too bad, but when the average beer cost $20, and the shipping cost is around $40 per case, and then maybe about $20-50 sent in thank you boxes every once in awhile, that shit adds up. I love being an RS member, and I think next year has potential to be way better than this year. So if you can swing it I recommend joining, just make sure you realize the true cost of the membership.
This. For me this year, 3000 was the true cost, which can be devestating to a poor grad student. Again, if you can control your finances, nobody will tell you not to join. But if you later complain about not having money, many BAs will be quick to point to the thread where you were warned.
my humble suggestion would be to skip the membership and try living within your means; it prepares you well for life later on.
But... that's not the American way. If you're not up to your eyeballs in debt, you're just doing it wrong.
Your response is spot on. As a poor graduate student, and current RS member, its do-able but an exercise in restraint when it comes to allocations... however, if I lived in an area outside of driving distance from the Bruery, it would be a really bad idea.
Full grown man had to stop trading beer because his parents told him to. Left a few traders high and dry after he got their boxes until BA chewed his ass out and apparently he finally sent what was owed.
Shits definitely pricey. Even not being a broke grad student, I'm questioning if I want to drop another 3g's on bruery or spread the love...tough decision.
BM just sent. I've potentially solved your problem for you and it has nothing to do with "splitting a membership" or being your Trustee.
Drinking your car sounds like you'll either a) gain a ton of weight b) lose a ton of weight ...from biking.
With what college costs and what a degree is actually worth these days? It's probably true... /offtopic
Just an update. BA has consistently been one of the best experiences I have had dealing with strangers. Great people on here really reaffirm your confidence in humanity. Knowledgeable, kind, and generous. Thanks everyone.
