Often I find myself completely intrigued and in-want of something I never gave a second thought to before, just because it’s on sale. So is the case with my latest “Groupon” discovery when I was presented with the fabulous idea of attending Bar-Tending School. The 40-hour course was offered at a significant discount so my dear friend and I signed up. Sharing our fine idea with friends solicited mixed reviews, but for the most part everyone was jealous of how much fun we get to have while they are at work! Yes, a huge benefit of being a full-time wedding planner is no corporate day job. I thought having this certification would also come in handy if a caterer was short on bartenders at an event I was coordinating. Besides, who doesn’t love having a bar tender around?
My friend, Sally and I coordinated our full calendars to fit in the 40 hour course and made our way to the questionable strip mall near downtown Mountain View. Our “landmarks” were the tattoo parlor and smoke shop that flanked the National Bar Tenders School. Although not our typical haunts, we were committed so in we went. Our colorful instructor, Erik, shared his opinion as well as his expertise as he regaled us with tales beyond anything I encounter in my typical day!
My friend, Sally and I coordinated our full calendars to fit in the 40 hour course and made our way to the questionable strip mall near downtown Mountain View. Our “landmarks” were the tattoo parlor and smoke shop that flanked the National Bar Tenders School. Although not our typical haunts, we were committed so in we went. Our colorful instructor, Erik, shared his opinion as well as his expertise as he regaled us with tales beyond anything I encounter in my typical day!
After a daily lecture, we were set loose on the bar to practice making drinks with colored water and tempura paint perfecting our skills and presenting beautiful looking beverages. Our topics spanned from juice drinks (screwdriver) to pousse café (layered liqueurs in a shot glass) and incorporated more than 200 recipes that we had to memorize in anticipation of a written and practical exam.
After many flash cards and study sessions we successfully passed the “bar” this very afternoon. Many thanks to a room full of students who were as quiet as church mice and the kind soul who turned off the radio so I could concentrate on the Slow Comfortable Screw followed by a Tom Collins, etc. Now, what’ll you have? Personally, I’m enjoying a Whiskey Sour as I write this! Bottom’s up!
RSS Feed
