Carter Reum: The Entrepreneurial Journey of a Visionary Investor and Business Leader
Explore the life and legacy of Carter Reum, an American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and the husband of Paris Hilton. Dive into his business ventures, net worth, and personal life.
Introduction: Who Is Carter Reum?
Carter Reum is an influential American entrepreneur and venture capitalist who gained fame through his successful business ventures and his marriage to media personality Paris Hilton. Known for his innovative approach to business, Reum has built a notable legacy in the worlds of startup investments, consumer products, and venture capital. He is also recognized for his philanthropic efforts and his ability to navigate and succeed in multiple industries.
Early Life and Education
Full Name and Early Background
Carter Milliken Reum was born on February 5, 1981, in Wayne, Illinois, USA. Raised in a business-oriented family, Reum’s father, W. Robert Reum, was the former CEO of Amsted Industries, one of the largest private companies in the U.S. This early exposure to business and entrepreneurship likely shaped Carter’s future ambitions.
Education
Carter attended Columbia University, where he earned a degree in Economics and Business in 2003. During his time at Columbia, he was an active member of the Zeta Beta Tau fraternity. His education provided a strong foundation for his future career in business and investments.
Early Career and Transition to Entrepreneurship
Goldman Sachs
After graduating from Columbia University, Reum began his professional career at Goldman Sachs, one of the leading investment banks globally. He worked in the investment banking division from 2004 to 2006, where he gained experience working with high-profile clients like Under Armour and Vitaminwater. This role helped him develop crucial financial and business skills that he later applied to his entrepreneurial ventures.
Founding VEEV Spirits
In 2007, Carter, alongside his brother Courtney Reum, co-founded VEEV Spirits, a premium vodka company made from acai berries. The company was notable for being one of the first to produce a carbon-neutral vodka. Their innovative approach to spirits production and environmental responsibility led to recognition in Inc. Magazine’s list of the 5000 fastest-growing private companies in 2018. The company was eventually sold in 2016, but it marked the beginning of Reum’s successful entrepreneurial career.
M13 Ventures: A New Chapter
Venture Capital Journey
In 2016, Carter and Courtney Reum co-founded M13 Ventures, a venture capital firm. M13 focuses on investing in consumer products at the intersection of technology and media. The firm has made strategic investments in notable companies like Lyft, Pinterest, Bonobos, and Daily Harvest.
M13 has had significant success, and in 2023, it was ranked as the 14th top-performing global venture capital firm in the HEC-Dow Jones Venture Capital Performance Ranking. This recognition underscores Carter’s ability to identify and nurture promising startups.
Carter Reum’s Personal Life
Marriage to Paris Hilton
Carter Reum made headlines when he began dating Paris Hilton in December 2019. The couple got engaged on February 13, 2021, during a birthday celebration on a private island. Their wedding took place on November 11, 2021, in a luxurious ceremony in Los Angeles. The union garnered significant media attention due to Hilton’s fame and the high-profile nature of the couple.
Children and Family Life
In January 2023, Carter and Paris welcomed their first child, Phoenix Barron Hilton Reum, through surrogacy. The couple’s second child, a daughter named London, was born in November 2023. Reum also has a daughter from a previous relationship with former reality star Laura Bellizzi.
Business Ventures and Investments
M13 Ventures: Continued Success
As mentioned, M13 Ventures has been a major factor in Carter’s career success. The firm invests in businesses at the crossroads of media, technology, and consumer products. Through M13, Reum has helped numerous companies grow and succeed. His expertise in identifying the next big idea has cemented his reputation as an influential figure in the venture capital community.
VEEV Spirits
Reum’s journey with VEEV Spirits is one of the key highlights of his entrepreneurial career. The company was notable not only for its unique product but also for its sustainability focus, which became a significant part of Reum’s personal brand.
Book Publication: “Shortcut Your Startup”
In 2018, Carter and his brother Courtney Reum co-authored a book titled “Shortcut Your Startup: Ten Ways to Speed Up Entrepreneurial Success”. The book provides valuable advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, covering critical topics such as fundraising, product development, and scaling businesses.
Carter Reum’s Net Worth
As of 2024, Carter Reum’s net worth is estimated to be around $40 million. His wealth is primarily derived from his entrepreneurial ventures, including VEEV Spirits, his investments through M13 Ventures, and various business partnerships. Reum’s investments in consumer products, technology, and real estate have contributed significantly to his fortune.
Carter Reum’s Legacy and Impact
Carter Reum’s legacy is still in the making, but his impact on the startup ecosystem is already substantial. His ability to identify high-potential businesses and guide them to success has made him a sought-after investor and business advisor. Additionally, his public profile—amplified by his marriage to Paris Hilton—has given him a unique platform to influence both the business and entertainment industries.
Philanthropy and Public Image
Reum has used his platform and wealth to support various charitable causes. He is committed to environmental sustainability and has supported initiatives aimed at improving access to education and healthcare. His involvement in philanthropic endeavors has further enhanced his public image as a socially responsible entrepreneur.
FAQ
What is Carter Reum’s net worth?
Carter Reum’s net worth is estimated to be around $40 million as of 2024.
How did Carter Reum make his money?
Carter Reum made his money through successful entrepreneurial ventures, including co-founding VEEV Spirits and the venture capital firm M13 Ventures.
Who is Carter Reum married to?
Carter Reum is married to Paris Hilton, a famous media personality, businesswoman, and socialite.
What companies has Carter Reum invested in?
Through his firm M13 Ventures, Carter Reum has invested in companies like Lyft, Pinterest, Bonobos, Daily Harvest, and ClassPass.
What is Carter Reum’s book about?
Carter Reum co-authored “Shortcut Your Startup” with his brother Courtney Reum, offering entrepreneurial advice on speeding up business success and scaling startups.
Conclusion
Carter Reum’s journey from investment banking to entrepreneurship and venture capitalism is a testament to his strategic thinking and business acumen. As the co-founder of M13 Ventures and the author of a popular startup guide, Reum has built a legacy that will continue to influence the business world for years to come. His personal life, marriage to Paris Hilton, and philanthropic efforts further contribute to his multifaceted career, ensuring his place as an influential figure in both business and entertainment.
