Frequently asked questions
What is your shimmer made of?
Our shimmer is magic! Just kidding, it’s a 100% food-grade mineral powder called mica. The pearlescent sparkle has no flavor or effects, but it is whimsical. We spent months formulating our elixirs with the highest-quality ingredients available. All of them are non-GMO and made with natural flavors and ingredients.
Are these safe to drink every day?
Yes! All our ingredients are dietary supplement grade and safe for daily use. The functional ingredients (vitamins, adaptogens, electrolytes) are at safe, effective doses. As with any supplement, consult your doctor if you're pregnant, nursing, or on medication.
What do they actually taste like?
Light and refreshing, not overly sweet. Hydration tastes like a subtle pink lemonade, Inner Light has hints of blood orange, and Serenity has hints of dark cherry notes. They're sweetened naturally with stevia, so no sugar crash.
Are they sugar-free?
Hydration has 2g of natural sugar from organic coconut sugar. Inner Light and Serenity are completely sugar-free, sweetened only with organic stevia extract.
Are they actually good for you or just pretty?
Both! Each elixir has real functional benefits—Hydration replenishes electrolytes, Inner Light has mood-boosting vitamins and adaptogens, and Serenity contains calming ingredients like ashwagandha and L-theanine. The shimmer is just the magical bonus.*
What gives the elixirs their bright colors?
Hydration is made with vegetable juice from sweet potato and carrot, and Inner Light gets its rich orange hue from pepper and carrot. Serenity’s dark purple is from Butterfly Pea Flower and organic spirulina.
What's in the Elixir of Hydration?
A pink lemonade blend for electrolyte replenishment*
Sodium (250mg), Potassium (300mg), Magnesium (60mg), Chloride (650mg), Citric acid, mica-based pearlescent pigment, vegetable juice (color), coconut sugar (2g), organic stevia.
Why Himalayan Pink Salt instead of regular salt?
This form of salt is minimally processed and contains trace minerals beyond just sodium, making it better for hydration. Plus, it adds to the pink color naturally!
What's in the Elixir of Inner Light?
A hint of blood orange blend for mood & energy support*
Vitamins D3 (20mcg) and B12 (2mcg), Panax Ginseng (50mg), Reishi Mushroom (48mg), Organic tapioca maltodextrin, vegetable juice (for color), natural blood orange flavor, citric acid, Reb A (organic stevia extract), mica-based pearlescent pigment.
What are adaptogens?
Herbs, roots, and mushrooms that help your body adapt to stress. Inner Light contains ginseng and reishi mushroom, while Serenity has ashwagandha. Think of them as gentle supporters that bring balance to your nervous system.
What's in the Elixir of Serenity?
A hint of dark cherry blend for calm & relaxation*
KSM-66® Ashwagandha (300mg), L-Theanine (170mg), GABA (110mg), Butterfly Pea Flower Powder, Organic tapioca maltodextrin, organic spirulina extract (color), natural dark cherry flavor, citric acid, Reb A (organic stevia extract), mica-based pearlescent pigment.
What is Ashwagandha and why is it in Serenity?
Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that's been used for centuries to help manage stress. We use KSM-66, the most clinically studied form, at 300mg - a dose shown to support relaxation without drowsiness.
What's Butterfly Pea Flower?
The magical color-creating antioxidant in Serenity! This flower naturally shifts from blue to purple based on pH. It's been used in teas across Southeast Asia for centuries and is completely caffeine-free.
What's L-Theanine?
L-Theanine is an amino acid that’s known to promote relaxation and reduce stress without drowsiness.
Is GABA safe? What does it do?
GABA is naturally produced in your brain to promote calm. The 110mg in Serenity is a moderate dose meant to take the edge off without making you sleepy. Perfect for precarious chapters.*
Are these vegan/gluten-free?
Yes to both! Also non-GMO.
Where are they made?
Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients. We work with suppliers who meet our quality standards for purity and sustainability.
Can I mix these with things besides water?
Absolutely! Try them in:
- Sparkling water for a fizzy potion
- Coconut water for extra hydration
- Iced tea for layered flavors
- Even cocktails/mocktails for special occasions
How much water should I use?
Hydration: 12-16 oz (more water = lighter taste)
Inner Light & Serenity: 8-12 oz (more concentrated) Mix to your preference - there's no wrong way!
When should I drink each one?
Hydration: Anytime, especially during long reading sessions
Inner Light: Morning or afternoon for an uplifting boost
Serenity: Evening wind-down or stressful moments But honestly? Drink whatever matches your book's vibe.
Can kids drink these?
While ingredients are generally safe, these are formulated as adult dietary supplements. Consult your pediatrician, especially for the adaptogens in Inner Light and Serenity.
Were you inspired by romantasy?
While we're made by and for the romance and fantasy community, Velvet Hammer is for anyone who loves books, beautiful rituals, or functional wellness. If you appreciate a little magic in your day, Velvet Hammer is for you.
Why the fantasy names?
Because "Electrolyte Powder" just didn't spark joy. We believe your reading ritual deserves language worthy of the worlds you're escaping into.
How did you design the brand and packaging?
We developed this brand with other romantasy-obsessed readers, illustrators, designers, and writers over the course of two years. We worked with creative collaborators who are truly on our page. It’s been an incredible journey, to say the least.
Can I share photos/videos of my drinks?
Please do! Tag us @drink.velvethammer or use #VelvetHammerRitual. We love seeing your reading setups, color combinations, and potion experiments.
Do you have subscriptions?
Of course! Set up recurring deliveries, save 15% on every order, and ensure your cup never runs dry.
Who founded this?
In a word, readers. We’re obsessed with romance and fantasy, escaping into another realm, and bringing that whimsy to our world. Our founder’s name is Gabby, and you can learn more about our journey to Velvet Hammer on the Our Story page.
How long does shipping take?
Shipping generally takes 4-7 business days. We’ll email you tracking information as soon as possible so you can prepare your chalice.
What's your return policy?
Due to the nature of consumables, we cannot accept returns, but we will work with you on a solution and/or refund. If you have any questions for our team, please get in touch at hello@drinkvelvethammer.com
Do you ship internationally?
Not yet! But we hope to be shipping internationally soon.
How are these packaged? Will they survive shipping?
Individual sachets in boxes of 15. The boxes are designed to protect the sachets and look beautiful on your shelf.
Are there any allergens?
Our elixirs do not contain any common allergens, however they are manufactured in a facility that may also process eggs, milk, peanuts, sesame, soy, tree nuts, wheat, and other allergens.
Can I drink these while pregnant or breastfeeding?
As with any supplement, consult your doctor if you're pregnant or nursing.
Can I take these with my medications?
Consult your doctor to understand if the elixirs are not recommended for you at this time.
What if I'm sensitive to caffeine?
Us too—none of our elixirs contain caffeine! The uplifting effects of the Elixir of Inner Light are attributed to natural vitamins and adaptogens that tend to build in your system over time, not provide an instant jolt like caffeine.*