Bartender/Mixologist

When you have gatherings do render your guests speechless with delicious drink concoctions made by tweaking old favorites with whatever you have on hand? Do you enjoy interacting with people? Have you been told that you have charisma? If so, you may have what it takes to become a bartender/mixologist.

While researching this career I discovered that the definition of a mixologist and a bartender will vary depending on who you ask. Some believe that a mixologist is likened to a chef creating new cocktail recipes by blending various fruits, vegetables and alcohol. Many times these cocktails are requested for a specific function, event, theme or menu. They also believe a mixologist receives extensive training in the study of mixing ingredients and works in upscale establishments. Asking the same people what a bartender is they will tell you that a bartender has some basic foundation in preparing mixed drinks but they are not as much into creating new drinks as they are in preparing and serving what the patrons request, usually the “old standby’s” like Mojitos, Cosmopolitans and Martinis and that they work in your more “down to earth” establishments. Still, others feel it is nothing more than semantics and both mixologists and bartenders are one in the same. Although the preceding reflects the sentiment given by some bartenders; others snub their nose to the distinction claiming they too take pride in their work ensuring consistency in their cocktail recipes and professionalism while serving their patrons. They also consider it part of their job to create new and exciting cocktail recipes to coincide with the menu and theme of the establishment where they work and are proud to be called a bartender.

However you choose to view it, in my opinion, they both serve up good conversation and delectable drinks. Licensing and certification requirements vary by state so do your research when choosing a school to attend. Certification upon completion can be obtained from a number of bartending schools. Most of these schools will teach you how to open, maintain and close a bar, attire, conduct, the skill of cocktail creation (blending, layering, muddling etc…), responsible alcohol serving and more. Each school offers slightly different classes so look into each school carefully to be sure you are learning what is most important to you. Some offer specific classes in mixology, flair bartending where you can learn how to do those bottle flipping moves like the ones used in the movie “Cocktail” in addition to the art of presentation, garnishes and more.

The bottom line is if you mix a fantastic drink that more than satisfies your customer, serve it with a smile and offer charismatic conversation that keeps them coming back for more you will have a long lived career in any establishment.