Hello, I’m Marco
Ciao! I’m Marco Santini, a passionate beverage creator and citrus enthusiast from sunny California with Italian roots. Growing up between my family’s lemon groves in Sicily and the vibrant farmers markets of San Diego, I discovered the incredible power of fresh citrus to transform any drink into something extraordinary. From refreshing lemonades and sparkling citrus mocktails to wellness shots and artisanal sodas, I believe every sip should be a celebration of natural flavor and pure refreshment.
Beverage Expertise
From Sicily to San Diego
My love affair with citrus began in my childhood, spending summers at my Nonno Giuseppe’s lemon groves in Sicily. The air was always thick with the intoxicating scent of lemon blossoms, and every morning started with a glass of fresh-squeezed lemon water—a tradition that connected our family to generations of citrus farmers who understood that the perfect lemon could transform not just a drink, but your entire day.
“Marco, remember—the best drinks don’t just quench thirst, they tell a story. Every lemon has sunshine inside.”
— Nonno Giuseppe
When my family immigrated to California in the early 2000s, I was amazed to discover that San Diego’s climate was nearly identical to Sicily’s—perfect for growing exceptional citrus. Nonno Giuseppe taught me that lemons weren’t just for cooking; they were nature’s energy drink, packed with vitamin C, natural electrolytes, and the power to alkalize and energize the body.
What started as a small lemonade stand in college (using Nonno’s secret family recipe) quickly grew into something much bigger. Friends began requesting my custom drink blends for parties, wellness retreats, and special occasions. By 2019, I realized I had accidentally created a business out of pure passion—sharing the joy and health benefits of artisanal citrus beverages with anyone willing to squeeze a little more sunshine into their day.
Today, Lemony Drinks is my love letter to the incredible versatility of citrus—from energizing morning elixirs and refreshing afternoon spritzers to sophisticated evening mocktails and healing wellness shots. Every recipe honors both my family’s Italian heritage and California’s incredible citrus bounty.
Beverage Philosophy
I believe that the perfect drink is more than refreshment—it’s liquid wellness, mood enhancement, and pure joy captured in a glass, powered by nature’s most vibrant citrus.
Energizing
Natural vitality and wellness in every refreshing sip
Artisanal
Crafted with premium ingredients and creative flair
Natural
Clean ingredients, no artificial flavors or preservatives
My approach focuses on maximizing the natural benefits of citrus: vitamin C for immunity, natural electrolytes for hydration, and essential oils for mood enhancement. I source directly from local California groves and always include seasonal variations so you can enjoy peak citrus flavors year-round.
Beyond the Glass
When I’m not experimenting with new citrus combinations, you’ll find me surfing the San Diego coastline, tending to my backyard citrus garden, or exploring local farmers markets in search of the perfect seasonal fruit. I’m also a certified herbalist and wellness coach, which helps me understand how different citrus varieties can support specific health goals—from morning energy to evening relaxation.
Community & Hobbies
Citrus Growers Society
Local Surf Community
Pop-Up Events
Grazie for joining me on this refreshing adventure—I can’t wait to help you discover the incredible world of artisanal citrus beverages, one perfect glass at a time!
