LOCATED IN
ELMIRA, ONTARIO

We are located in the community of Elmira, Ontario just 15 km north of Waterloo. Elmira is known for its Maple Syrup Festival (since 1965) and having the largest population of Old Order Mennonites in Canada.

It’s no mistake that we went with Rural Roots. Roger is from a rural community, just like Elmira – a historical hub. He grew up on a farm and wanted to honour those roots. The people of Elmira and the surrounding area can appreciate the respect we have for the source of our quality ingredients.

Photo: Post card of Elmira from 1906 showing multiple panoramic views from the Region of Waterloo Archives.

Post card of Elmira from 1906 showing multiple panoramic views from the Region of Waterloo Archives.
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WHO WE ARE

At Rural Roots, our Passion is not beer! There, we said it. We are about community, roots, and creating an inviting and comfortable space for everyone. Our passion (small “p”), however, is beer!

We appreciate quality because if something is worth doing, it is worth doing well. We are interested in crafting beer that encourages people to slow down and savour the nuances of something special. We sincerely hope you enjoy our beer.

ROGER LICHTI

CRAFTSMAN + OWNER

Roger has been brewing beer in his garage for many years. He finds great joy in working with a recipe and tweaking it until it is just right. Friends, family and even some strangers invited in for tasting notes have all loved his beer and encouraged him to sell it.

“We started researching what needed to be done to share this craft with more people. One thing has led to another – and here we are! It hasn’t been an easy process, but it’s an enriching one that we are so excited to share with you. ”

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TANJA

MANAGER

My name is Tanja and I am social service graduate turned business owner. I enjoy spending time with my beautiful American bully named Binsen, cooking and creating plant based healing products. We are so lucky for the awesome team we have built and I am so happy to be a part of it!

JENNY

SERVER

Jenny’s impact at Rural Roots extends far beyond her role. With her blend of humor, warmth, and genuine care, she creates an inviting environment for both customers and colleagues. As a mom, she understands the importance of making people feel at home, and she does it with a spunky flair that’s uniquely hers. We’re thrilled to have Jenny with us—her laughter and positive energy are truly irreplaceable.

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CASS

SERVER

I’m Cassidy, an electrical apprentice during the day and a rural roots server at night! When I’m not at work I enjoy going on adventures with my Bernese mountain dog Molly or cuddling up at home with my kitten Loui and molly of course! I love sports especially hockey. I’m so excited to be a part of the rural roots team and meet all the wonderful people who come in!

KYLEE

SERVER

‘Kyle’ is studying psychology in her first year at Wilfred Laurier University. Although she is the youngest on the team, she is by far the tallest and smartest. When she is not at school or serving up pints with a smile, she can be found at home spending quality time with her family. Kyle is the gentle (with a touch of mischievous) part of the team we didn’t know we needed. We look forward to free psycho-therapy sessions in the future.

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SARAH

SERVER

I’m Sarah. I’ve worked at PIB for 20 years and recently joined Rural Roots part time. When I’m not working, I’m spending time with my husband and 2 boys. I enjoy being anywhere outside with my boys- camping, cottages, parks and relaxing at home. I also enjoy time with friends and nice cold beers 🙂 .

Happy to be a part of such a great group at Rural Roots.

LEA

SERVER

My name is Lea! i am studying social sciences at McMaster university, I love going out with my friends and girlfriend and spending time with my pets. I enjoy stargazing and really enjoyed the latest solar eclipse that happened. I am very happy and excited to be a part of the rural roots team!

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CAMERON

SERVER

My name Is Cameron, I love to travel the world and enjoy the outdoors! My favourite place I’ve been so far is Thailand so if you ask I’ll definitely recommend you see it someday. I’m super excited to be a part of the Rural Roots team and to meet all of you and your furry friends. 

MEL

PRODUCTION AND OPERATIONS

Mel is a production manager turned inspiring future brewer by day and an international forensic investigator and crime analyst by night! When she’s not busy canning and kegging beer or analyzing cases, she loves to spend time with her family and rescue-fur babies!!

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KIRSTEN

PRODUCTION AND OPERATIONS

I’m Kirsten, a former advertising and media executive, and part-time doula.  I moved back to the region in 2017, and am happy to call Elmira home.  I love spending time with my family and our adopted goldendoodle named Bixie-Blue.  I enjoy yoga, podcasts, all things 90s, and spending summer holidays on Lake Huron.  As a long-time craft beer enthuisast, I’m excited to further support the local brewery scene and join the team at Rural Roots.

Happy to be a part of such a great group at Rural Roots.