Where are you from?
Sackville, Nova Scotia
Where do you currently work?
The Bicycle Thief
How long have you been in the industry?
Seven Years
If you could work with any other bartender in the world for one night who would it be?
I’d probably say Phil Ward, I think our styles and personalities would mesh really well.
If you could visit any restaurant/bar in the world where would it be?
I definitely want to go to New York and check out Death and Co. I’ve always found their work very inspirational and to see it in person would be amazing.
Who is your mentor, if you have one?
I would have to credit Matt Boyle and Jeff Van Horne for setting me up to be successful. They both played a big part when I was starting to take bartending seriously and put me on the right path.
Why do you feel MADE WITH LOVE, as a cocktail competition, is important for the Industry in Halifax?
The Halifax bartending community is very tight-knit and supportive. I think everyone realizes that we need to help each other to be successful and Made With Love encourages that mentality. Speaking from experience, it’s hugely beneficial to get together and learn from everyone else. It’s a great competition to raise the quality of bartending in Halifax as a whole.
What is the skill you look for in a competitor when you are judging?
I’ll be looking for a balance of good technique and creativity
What is the most impressive thing you have ever seen a bartender do?
To me, the most impressive thing a bartender can do is show poise under pressure. Either in a competition or at a busy bar, being able to stay calm and be confident is an invaluable skill.
What’s the most frequent error competitors do in a competition?
Trying to do too much, creativity is a huge part of competing, but not at the expense of quality and execution. If you’re trying something new for a competition, make sure you practice until its second nature.
What is the biggest challenge a judge has?
Paying attention to all of the details, everyone puts so much effort into their presentation and each little thing can make a huge difference at the end
What is the most precious advice you could give to a competitor?
Remind to have fun, everyone is trying to win, but make sure you enjoy the experience.
