Overview

BLK Water is a functional beverage company known for its fulvic acid-infused water, giving it a distinct black color. The company was founded in 2010 by Jacqueline and Louise Wilkie, who initially researched health aids for their mother’s breast cancer diagnosis and discovered fulvic acid. They experimented with it and decided to bottle the fulvic mineral formula as a functional beverage, thus creating BLK. Later, Caroline Manzo’s sons, Chris and Albie Manzo, along with her brother, Chris Laurita, joined forces with the Wilkie sisters to further develop and market BLK Water. The drink combines water, fulvic acid, and minerals. It is marketed as a premium beverage with health benefits such as improved hydration and nutrient absorption. BLK Water gained prominence through its association with “The Real Housewives of New Jersey,” where it was frequently featured. Despite facing a lawsuit over its origins, BLK Water remains available for purchase, though the Manzo-Laurita family is no longer involved. The company’s headquarters is located in Los Angeles, California.

What Is Chris Manzo’s Net Worth?

Chris Manzo, an American entrepreneur and reality television personality, has accumulated a net worth of $1.5 million. This financial standing is primarily attributed to his diverse career ventures, which include business ownership, restaurant management, and media appearances. Chris Manzo’s exposure on “The Real Housewives of New Jersey,” alongside his family, significantly contributed to his public profile, thereby opening doors to various business opportunities.

Early Life and Background

Born on May 24, 1989, in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, Chris Manzo is the son of Albert and Caroline Manzo. He grew up with his older brother, Albie, and sister, Lauren. The Manzo family resided in Wayne, New Jersey, before moving to Franklin Lakes. Chris attended high school but chose not to pursue higher education, opting instead to engage in entrepreneurial pursuits. This decision underscores his proactive approach to business and his inclination to gain hands-on experience rather than follow a traditional academic path.

Career and Business Ventures

Chris Manzo’s career began within the family business, specifically at The Brownstone, a prominent event and venue space co-owned by his father. His roles were varied, ranging from dishwashing and parking cars to staff management. This early exposure to the hospitality industry provided him with a foundational understanding of business operations and customer service. His involvement in “The Real Housewives of New Jersey,” starting in 2009, significantly elevated his public profile.

His appearances on the show, along with his brother Albie, were popular with viewers. The brothers’ interactions and humorous exchanges offered both entertainment and a relatable portrayal of family dynamics. In November 2014, Chris also featured in the spin-off reality show “Manzo’d with Children,” which aired for three seasons, further solidifying his presence in the reality television sphere. This visibility played a crucial role in enhancing his business ventures by leveraging his public recognition to attract attention and build credibility.

One of Manzo’s notable entrepreneurial ventures was co-founding BLK Beverages with his brother. The concept emerged after a visit to a food show in Manhattan where they encountered a company producing black alkalized water. Recognizing the potential market for this product, the Manzo brothers initiated BLK Water in 2011. They actively promoted the product, traveling across the country in a BLK van. The brand achieved considerable success, securing shelf space in grocery stores nationwide. The brothers invested significant time and capital into marketing and distribution, resulting in a substantial increase in the product’s visibility and availability. While the company faced lawsuits that led to its eventual decline, the initial success underscores Chris Manzo’s entrepreneurial spirit and aptitude for identifying and capitalizing on market trends. This venture provided invaluable experience in brand development, marketing strategies, and supply chain management.

In 2016, Chris Manzo ventured into the literary world, publishing his first children’s book, “Oliver Brightside: You Don’t Want That Penny.” He actively promoted the book through signings and readings at local schools and bookstores. Although specific sales figures are not publicly available, this project demonstrates his diverse skill set and his ability to tap into different markets. His plans to write additional children’s books indicate a long-term interest in this creative outlet.

In 2020, Chris Manzo, in collaboration with his brother, took on the management of the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel and Restaurant in Asbury Park. Their objective was to renovate the resort in conjunction with its owners. The property reopened in 2022 under their management. Before this undertaking, Manzo had experience running restaurants, having managed and owned Tenth Street Pizza in Hoboken, New Jersey. From 2014 to 2015, he co-owned Little Town restaurant with his brother. In 2023, he became the new owner of Nunzio’s Pizza in Long Beach. These restaurant management roles highlight his hands-on approach to the hospitality industry and his ability to oversee various aspects of restaurant operations, from menu development and staff management to customer service and financial oversight. The experience gained from these ventures has undoubtedly contributed to his overall net worth and business acumen.

Personal Life

Chris Manzo is currently in a relationship with Cassandra Cortez. His mother, Caroline, publicly confirmed their relationship in October 2022. During his appearances on “The Real Housewives of New Jersey” and “Manzo’d with Children,” his romantic life was often a topic of discussion. While specific details about his personal assets and investments are not publicly disclosed, his diverse career ventures and business ownerships suggest a solid financial foundation. The estimated $1.5 million net worth reflects a combination of earnings from reality television, business ventures, and restaurant management. This figure is an estimate based on available public information and industry analysis.

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