SHAKEN AND Stirred

If you’ve been to an outstanding event on the Sunshine Coast, chances are The Bartenders were belting out the beverages. Deb Caruso discovers what makes these mixologists the secret ingredient for any occasion.

James Bond may have made martinis famous but a band of bartenders are redefining what makes a memorable event. Nothing leaves a lasting impression like slick service, divine drinks and memorable moments. The Bartenders deliver this in spades, shaken and stirred.

This band of highlypassionate cocktail specialists are the best in the biz with a killer combination of knowledge, passion and a desire to exceed expectations.

The brainchild of Grant Hawthorne, The Bartenders has grown from a few mates offering cocktail party waiter service to delivering functions for hordes of thirsty revellers who might (or might not) appreciate the difference between a negroni and a Peroni.

The Bartenders was born five years ago when Grant recognised a large gap in the market due to his role at Sofitel Noosa.

“I was responsible for opening the Riviera Lounge and developing a range of signature cocktails and brand strategies,” Grant said. “I struggled to find bartenders to hire for special events and activations and the ones that I did hire were charging a lot to do very little. They lacked knowledge and passion and I knew I could do it better.”

And do better he has. Fresh from the success of providing the fully-packaged floor and table drinks service for Noosa Eat & Drink’s sold-out Youngcare Lunch for 250 thirsty fundraisers; and 180 people revellers for the High Tea Soiree in The Woods at the end of Hastings Street, Grant and his team are preparing for a big year ahead as events emerge from the COVID-coma.

Originally The Bartenders specialised in providing bespoke bar and cocktail services for smaller events (and they still do) but he has now built a formidable team of some of the Sunshine Coast’s best hospitality workers allowing him to scale up and deliver seamless and smiling service for major corporate events and functions.

He attributes his success to strong communication, a commitment to always going the extra mile and the perfect blend of impeccable service, handcrafted drinks and a unique personal touch. In addition to their signature, classic or custom-designed cocktails, they have a range of customdesigned pop-up bars and premium glassware for hire to cater for any size event and are even willing to share some of their secrets with interactive cocktail masterclasses for small groups.

“No matter how big or small the event is, clients are always surprised at how much effort we go to,” he said. “Every event is unique, so the beverages should be too.

“Cocktails shouldn’t be pre-mixed, bottled or canned,” Grant said. “They’re carefully created by mixologists to give you exactly what you’ve been craving with fresh, local ingredients that make all the difference.”

Grant and the team tailor every event with a list of signature cocktails which are assured to get your mouth watering, as well as the choice of classic cocktails or custom-designed cocktails.

From cocktail masterclasses in your home with friends; celebrations and weddings to corporate functions designed to impress, The Bartenders are licensed to thrill; after all, You Only Live Twice (oh Mr Bond!).

What’s next, world domination?