Bartenders are the unsung heroes of community connection who serve as uniquely pivotal figures within the social and cultural ecosystem of their city. More than just drink slingers; bartenders are vital community connectors creating meaningful bonds with their guests. Stationed at the heart of social interaction, they foster a welcoming atmosphere of belonging around the bar where strangers can become acquaintances, friends and even chosen family. With a listening ear and friendly demeanor, bartenders are experts at reading the room, facilitating conversations and offering a “safe space” neutral ground for diverse individuals to connect. They help celebrate milestones, listen to stories, share laughs, provide meaningful space, and have their fingers on the local pulse of their local communities. Beyond simply pouring drinks, bartenders pour connections as they weave into the social fabric of their neighborhoods, one conversation at a time. To celebrate these special Bartender Bond builders, we have teamed up with Jack Daniel's Bonded Tennessee Whiskey to showcase Bartender Talents who embody the vital role of bond builders and community connectors. Let’s get Bonded by the Bar with Bartender Brittany Squires of Atlanta, Georgia.
What would you say is your superpower as a Bartender that builds bonds with your guests and invites them to become your regulars?
My bond building superpower is my ability to make genuine connections. My regulars come back because I make them feel seen, safe, and uplifted when they are with me at the bar. My energy is warm and inviting, so people feel comfortable sharing bits and pieces of themselves with me. Also, because I truly enjoy creating cocktails and experiences that are unique and memorable, which I believe shows in my hospitality with my guests.
What makes your Bar a welcoming space for community in Atlanta to gather, meet up, make connections and build bonds?
My bar is a welcoming third space for of all different kinds of people because of the vibe! The space is aesthetically pleasing and the people who come tend to share a fun, easygoing, and inclusive energy. It’s the perfect place to get together to chat, laugh, dance, catch up, sip something nice or simply take a break to decompress from the stress of the world. Whether someone’s coming in to celebrate something special or simply to be around good energy, my bar makes people feel at ease to just be themselves in community with others.
How can the Bar Industry work together to create a welcoming bar culture that fosters a sense of belonging for every guest that comes in looking for community?
Bartenders are often listening ears and sounding boards for our guests. I aim to offer them all a safe and trusted space. You never know what someone has going on in their life when they walk in the door, but the moment they see a smile, it can make them feel welcome. Remembering a small detail about a guest or simply asking about the day with genuine care, can go a long way. I believe it’s also important for bartenders to create a space where all guests can feel connected to each other. Even if a person comes to the bar by themselves, they don’t have to feel alone. I love introducing new people who I know have something in common to each other, or discussing topics that are relatable on many levels to a wide range of people. When strangers are able to join in conversation, it makes them feel welcome and can open the door to creating remarkable bonds.
Can you share a little backstory about your bond with the Regular Guest who inspired your Bonded by the Bar cocktail?
The regular that inspired my cocktail is my friend Brian. We grew up together and were very close, but after we graduated, we spent quite a bit of time apart. As life would have it, he started working within walking distance to my bar. He visited once and hasn’t stayed away since; he loves it here! It’s nice that we were able to reconnect. Despite having conflicting schedules, it works because when he’s getting off work, my shift is just beginning so he’s able to drop by and share time. His visits help the time pass, and he provides good feedback when I am working on new cocktails ideas. He’s a social butterfly and talks to literally everyone. We share the ability to make genuine connections very easily with people. Our bond is the inspiration for my cocktail - sweet, warm and smooth.
Which specific flavor notes in Jack Daniel's Bonded Tennessee Whiskey did you highlight in your cocktail that was inspired by the bond with your favorite Regular?
First, I wanted to highlight the subtle vanilla notes of Jack Daniel's Bonded Tennessee Whiskey and then build on that by layering in its woody, oaky depth to bring forward the warm spice and cinnamon creating a balanced flavor profile that is bold and comforting in the cocktail.
Amber Blossom
- 5 parts (1.5oz) Jack Daniels Bonded Tennessee Whiskey
- ½ part Pineapple Amaro
- ¾ part cinnamon infused pineapple syrup (housemade by Brittany)
- ¼ part fresh lemon juice
- ½ part fresh pineapple juice
Shaken and strained in a coupe glass with dehydrated pineapple and shaved torched cinnamon garnish
Enjoy Brittany's Amber Blossom cocktail with Jack Daniel's Bonded Tennessee Whiskey and we hope to see you building Bonds by the Bar turning strangers into friends and friends into family in your community.
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Tennessee Whiskey, Tennessee Rye Whiskey, and a Blend of Straight Whiskeys, 50% alc. by vol. (100 proof). Distilled and bottled by the Jack Daniel Distillery, Lynchburg, Tennessee.
