Letter GUEST EDITOR'S
Reflection. A keyword in our lives right now. Especially when everyone is in recovery and rediscovery modes. I do think rediscovery, though, is what’s most important right now as we begin another year. It’s crucial to the beverage industry and all professionals working out there, no matter where and what your role. Look, in the end, we’re all a family, and the holidays have taught us to celebrate past experiences with our friends, coworkers, and anyone who holds a place in our hearts. I mean, c’mon. We all need to celebrate life in general now and discover how to make choices that better ourselves for the future. In the bartending trade that could mean learning from past mistakes. Trust me. I have taken plenty of missteps in my career, but I managed to come out standing. If nothing else, I’ve learned that opportunities happen on your own accord, not by relying on someone else. Yes, it is true that everyone working in hospitality should learn independently, but I also think everyone must learn from coworkers and every person on the other side of the bar, too. Take away any little thing you can that will incorporate knowledge and technique. Then reflect, grow, and of course, rediscover. We’ll never forget our mentors, but the important thing is to pass on what you have learned to the next person. That’s my advice. Study, push forward, learn from past mistakes, and ensure the next generation is given what they need to succeed. Above all, make sure you take the initiative for your own success. Nothing in life is handed to us, so make things happen for yourself. Live, learn, love life, and enjoy it! Just make sure to take time to reflect and rediscover as often as you can. I know I will.
Shaun Gordon
10
CHILLED MAGAZINE
Passion for the art of the craft is the driving force behind Shaun Gordon’s eclectic cocktail creations. He is currently shaking it up at Sweet Liberty and The Oasis, two of Miami’s hot spots. Shaun got his start under his mentor, Jim McCourt, at Prohibition in Charleston. To keep his technique sharp and his cocktail creations fresh, Shaun gathers inspiration from all the places he’s visited, along with his involvement in events, conferences, and numerous cocktail competitions around the country.
