Behind the Bar: A Journey into Experiential Hospitality
DETAILS
In Conversation With: Andrew Fletcher, Founder of Honest Cocktails & Wine on the Water
Unveiling: Tips to Crafting Unique Experiences that Bring People Together
In today's competitive market, creating memorable experiences is paramount. We recently sat down with Andrew Fletcher, the founder behind Honest Cocktails and Wine on the Water, to explore the inspiration and strategic thinking driving his hospitality ventures. Andrew's journey into the realm of cocktail experiences emerged from a blend of necessity and passion, fueled by his extensive background in food and beverage. Recognizing the evolving landscape of hospitality, particularly in the aftermath of 2020, Andrew seized the opportunity to merge his love for mixology with the evolving desires of consumers, thus venturing into the realm of experiential hospitality.
The journey began with Honest Cocktails, a cocktail experience company dedicated to offering both on-site and virtual classes, alongside curated cocktail kits. Honest Cocktails caters to a diverse clientele, ranging from at-home enthusiasts to corporate entities seeking to elevate their events. Building on this success, Andrew's next venture, Wine on the Water, intertwines luxury and adventure by offering private sommelier experiences aboard luxurious yachts. Here, guests embark on a sensory journey through six premium wines, each expertly paired with cuisine, crafting an unforgettable fusion of flavor and refinement.
Now, let's dive into the key strategies employed by Honest Cocktails & Wine on the Water; strategies that can inspire and guide hospitality businesses in crafting their own memorable guest experiences:
Use a Create by Design Approach:
Andrew emphasizes a "created by design" approach to crafting experiences, starting with a deep understanding of the client's preferences and desires. This customized approach ensures that every aspect, from drink selection to presentation, is thoughtfully curated for maximum impact.
The Honest Cocktails team tailors experiences based on whether clients seek bespoke creations or classic favorites. For those looking for unique concoctions, such as a bubbly, purple-hued cocktail, personalized drinks are crafted to meet their desires. Alternatively, for guests drawn to timeless classics like an Old Fashioned, the team adds a twist, such as smoking it, to create a more memorable experience.
2. Infuse Storytelling into Experiences:
By infusing storytelling into experiences, both Honest Cocktails and Wine on the Water create depth and authenticity. Whether delving into the history of a cocktail or showcasing local traditions and culture, this narrative-driven approach fosters connection and conversation.
For instance, at Wine on the Water, three of the six wine tastings feature BC-based wines, reflecting the essence of the local culture and culinary heritage.
3. Experiment with Unique Concepts:
Inspire creativity and innovation within your team by embracing unconventional ideas and steering clear of the copy-and-paste mentality. Encourage your team to think outside the box and continually seek ways to surprise and delight your guests, ensuring each interaction is uniquely memorable.
A favorite experience of Andrew’s that exemplifies this is when they hosted a Sherlock Holmes-themed scavenger hunt paired with a TED Talk in a 1920s gala setting.
4. Align Values with Offerings:
Aligning values with offerings ensures authenticity and loyalty, as customers recognize the commitment to principles reflected in the products or services provided, fostering trust in the brand.
At Honest Cocktails, they are committed to using one fruit and one vegetable in their cocktail kits and cold-pressing all products. This reflects their broader vision of building a sustainable, less wasteful, and healthy-focused company.
As we conclude our exploration into the world of experiential hospitality with Honest Cocktails & Wine on the Water, we invite you to reflect on the power of personalized service, immersive storytelling, and understanding the desires of your customer. By adopting these principles, you can create experiences that linger in the hearts and minds of your guests long after the last sip is taken and the final toast is made.
Curious to learn more about Honest Cocktails and Wine on the Water? Visit their websites to explore upcoming events, browse their curated cocktail kits, or book a memorable experience. For the latest cocktail trends, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and exclusive offers, follow them on social media @honestcocktails.ca and @wineonthewateryvr.