Si Bristol Hub’s Post

Meeting professionals! Please remember that making your event inclusive should include options for sober attendees. Which doesn’t just mean a zero proof bar with zero proof spirits….because having something that “tastes like the real thing” can actually be a trigger for someone newly sober. Coach the bartenders to make sure they pay attention to those asking for virgin or alcohol free versions of drinks. I once asked for a virgin mojito and it was definitely not virgin. Fortunately, I work a strong program of recovery so it didn’t cause me to stumble. Tonight as I celebrated 17 years sober, I went to an industry happy hour and enjoyed my usual ginger beer (af) on the rocks. I work a program so being around alcohol doesnt bother me. But that wasn’t always the case. Don’t pressure people to go to the reception or stay for “one more.” You don’t know if they are struggling. And frankly, it’s none of your business why Sally isn’t drinking anymore so don’t call it out. Most of all, remember us when you’re planning your parties. Thank you on behalf of the recovery community everywhere. Seventeen years. Including the pandemic. One day at a time.

Source: Social Media: *Some years ago, there was a Mensa convention in San Francisco.* *Mensa, is an international organization for people who have an IQ of 140 or higher.* *Several of the Mensa members went out for lunch at a local cafe.* *When they sat down, one of them discovered that their salt shaker contained pepper, and their pepper shaker was full of salt.* *How could they swap the contents of the two bottles without spilling any, and using only the implements at hand?* *Clearly -- this was a job for Mensa minds.* *The group debated the problem and presented ideas and finally, came up with a brilliant solution involving a napkin, a straw, and an empty saucer.* *They then called the waitress over, ready to dazzle her with their solution.* *"Ma'am," they said, "we couldn't help but notice that the pepper shaker contains salt and the salt shaker contains pepper..."* *But before they could finish, the waitress interrupted & said...* *"Oh -- sorry about that."* *She leaned over the table, unscrewed the caps of both bottles and switched them.* *There was dead silence at the Mensa table.* *For most of the problems in our lives there are simple solutions, but it is our “Brilliant” minds that complicate every simple solution. ...Change the Caps and enjoy life !!* *Take a re-look at life, you will find non issues mostly!*

POV: You're about to do a panel to a bunch of street-food business as part of the The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) panel on breaking into the festival catering. Rather nerve-racking, and for some reason the easiest question 'tell us about your self" threw me the most, especially compared to my fellow panelist's answers on how they started their businesses. Big shout out to Mandy, Jez & Mark! Between the four of us, we managed to dispense some really usefully advice to new businesses trying to crack the festival circuit. For those who weren't there, my top tips would be to: 🎪 Approach local events first, as they often have local economic targets to hit 🎪 Work on your set up frontage & signage. Remember, product > brand. 🎪 Have best in class docs (NCASS can help you with that). 🎪 Get excellent photos done. 🎪 Always ask event organisers questions on events, we're here to help.

Save the date

Inclusivity at events means more than just providing the basics—it’s about offering thoughtful food and beverage options that make everyone feel welcome. I often think of my colleague Erica, who had to quietly switch to club soda (tipping the bartender extra) after one vodka soda to avoid standing out among her heavy-drinking clients. Or my friend Thomas, who left an industry event early because the only non-alcoholic choices were soda and water. He was looking for something more engaging, like an NA beer or a mocktail, that would let him enjoy the event without compromising his well-being. He lost out on potential relationships and business. These stories highlight why this conversation is so essential. We need to rethink how we craft food and beverage experiences at our events to ensure we offer options that cater to everyone’s needs and preferences. I look forward to discussing these topics at "Beyond the Bar," a unique sober-inclusive happy hour and panel discussion about redefining event experiences. Carl Radke, Alyssa May Hart, Madelyn Olavarria, our moderator David T. Stevens®, PMED, and I will dive into wellness trends, explore the rise of alcohol alternatives, and share insights on creating events that are truly inclusive for every attendee. Plus, I can’t wait to try some of Loverboy Inc.’s innovative NA drinks. 🍹 If you’re in Las Vegas for #IMEX24, come join us at the Jimmy Kimmel Comedy Club. Let’s connect and work together to create events where everyone feels like they belong. 🗓️ Happy Hour: 6:30-7:30 PM 🎤 Panel Discussion: 7:30-8:15 PM 👥 Meet + Greet: 8:15-9:30 PM Spots are limited, so RSVP soon and be part of this important conversation! 👉 https://lu.ma/j439q87o Thanks to the OTHR Agency, Caesars Entertainment Meetings and Events, Loverboy Inc., and Jimmy Kimmel Comedy Club, in partnership with CEMA-Corporate Event Marketing Association for hosting this important conversation. #BeyondTheBar #InclusiveEvents #EventInnovation #EatingAtAMeeting

Can you throw a cocktail party like a pro? This National Cocktail Day, get your crew together to craft crowd-pleasing cocktails with these tips from Capital One

Can you throw a cocktail party like a pro? This National Cocktail Day, get your crew together to craft crowd-pleasing cocktails with these tips from Capital One

Can you throw a cocktail party like a pro? This National Cocktail Day, get your crew together to craft crowd-pleasing cocktails with these tips from Capital One

Can you throw a cocktail party like a pro? This National Cocktail Day, get your crew together to craft crowd-pleasing cocktails with these tips from Capital One

Can you throw a cocktail party like a pro? This National Cocktail Day, get your crew together to craft crowd-pleasing cocktails with these tips from Capital One