With the first ever Bar Convent Brooklyn about to kick things off, we caught up with some of the people behind the event to get tips on how to make the most of it. On June 12 & 13, 2018, Bar Convent Brooklyn (BCB) will take over the Brooklyn Expo Center bringing together bar folks from all over the world to NYC.
For those not familiar, Bar Convent started as a small industry meeting in Berlin and quickly became the leading international bar & beverage trade show. The show is now expanding to Brooklyn, NY. Bar Convent Brooklyn is a platform for premium brands, decision makers, and influencers across the globe to network, share knowledge, explore the newest trends and products, and generate potential business opportunities. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit HERE. Continue reading below for tips and their thoughts on BCB from some of the industry’s finest leaders.
Angus Winchester, Director of Education at Bar Convent Brooklyn
How to Get the most out of Bar Convent Brooklyn
“Start off with the understanding that this is a trade show for professionals, so bring your A-game,” explains Winchester. “Make sure you check out the various booths and stands as the brands show you what they are made of in a fun and funky way.”
Then, Winchester continues, “make sure you study the education programs as its first come, first served and are being led by some of America’s finest educators in three areas at Bar Convent Brooklyn.
Finally, of course, do what you do best and network. “It’s an NYC bar show so expect bar friends from around the country to show up, and of course, use those name tags as it helps making new friends all the easier.”
What are you most looking forward to a Bar Convent Brooklyn?
“I am all about the education and have done my darndest to put together a really solid group of educators on all three education areas,” says Winchester. “I always look forward to seeing Bobby Heugel speak, and I think having Julie Reiner, Susan Fedroff share some of their operational secrets will be unmissable. I’m very proud of whole education program for Bar Convent Brooklyn.”
Paula November, Vice-President, Bar Convent Brooklyn
How to get the most out of Bar Convent Brooklyn
“Get in early and stay late,” advises November. “Planning is key for this trade event, starting with getting your tickets in advance and reviewing the education sessions to determine which speakers, topics, or tasting sessions are of interest. This is the time to network with your peers and industry influencers, ask questions and share best practices to apply those findings in your day to day businesses. There will be spirits represented from around the world, be sure to explore the entire show and look for those little gems that will feed your creativity while experiencing new product releases from other established brands.”
What are you most looking forward to Bar Convent Brooklyn
“As the Event Director seeing it all come together and opening the doors on the first day with thousands off attendees eager to be a part of event,” November says. “The excitement around the BCB Brooklyn is infectious starting with our exhibitors who are bringing to life some really amazing brand displays. Everyone has been incredibly supportive especially our sponsors and supporters.”
Franky Marshall, Bar Director at Le Boudoir Brooklyn
How to get the most out of Bar Convent Brooklyn
Take a look at the schedule and plan your course of action, Marshall explains. “There are so many interesting Tasting Rooms and talks, that you could spend the whole time just listening and learning,” she says. “That’s great, but of course, you need to go around and visit the exhibitor booths see what they’re offering as well. Get there early and take in as much as you can.”
What are you most looking forward to Bar Convent Brooklyn
Aside from presenting the Pineau des Charentes Tasting Room on Tuesday and hosting the Main Stage on Wednesday, Marshall is looking forward to having members of the international bar community come to Brooklyn. “It’s been a while since New York has given you a reason to visit us en masse, so welcome back!”
Naren Young – Creative Director, Dante
What are you most looking forward to Bar Convent Brooklyn?
“I’m mostly looking forward to working on the Campari stands and also watching the seminar from my friend Bobby Huegel on How to Train Bartenders on Day 1,” says Young. “And, of course, catching up with so many industry friends from all over the world”
Sandrae Lawrence, Co-founder, The Cocktail Lovers
So, tips for getting the most out of BCB:
Plan, plan, plan! “Check times of the seminars that you want to see then work everything else around that,” says Lawrence. “Sounds simple but very easy to get caught up chatting with the many friends you’ll invariably bump into that you may well miss the slots.”2. Drink plenty of water. It’s a no-brainer that you’ll be sampling spirits and trying a cocktail or two (!) in Brooklyn’s many great bars but do remember to hydrate. And one big glass just before going to bed. You’ll be thankful the next day
Drink plenty of water. “It’s a no-brainer that you’ll be sampling spirits and trying a cocktail or two (!) in Brooklyn’s many great bars but do remember to hydrate,” say continues. “And one big glass just before going to bed. You’ll be thankful the next day.”
Speaking of which, pace yourself. “Sure there will be plenty of parties and bars to visit but you don’t need to be the last one standing EVERY night,” Lawrence advises. “Particularly if it means missing out on the earlier seminars because you’ve over slept. That said, make the most of being in Brooklyn and check out its many bars.”
What are you most looking forward to Bar Convent Brooklyn?
“So many… Toki-O Highball with Don Lee and Dave Arnold; everyone should make it their business to listen in on how to be a better bartender with Claire Warner and Tim Etherington-Judge; From partnerships to profits and everything in between with Julie Reiner, Susan Fedrofff and Christine Williams should be interesting, as will Spirit Free with Julia Momose. In short, I can’t wait!”
Claire Sprouse, Co-Founder of Tin Drink Roof Community
*Hosting a Main Stage panel with Chad Arnholtd at BCB on “A New Way to Cost – Calculating Your Menu’s Carbon Footprint”
How to get the most out of Bar Convent Brooklyn
“The content at BCB is really diverse so try to take in a little of everything,” says Sprouse. “Whether it’s one of the unique educational and tasting opportunities or letting loose with your peers at one of the parties. Of course, don’t forget to take advantage of being in Brooklyn – the Borough is full of great restaurants, bars, breweries, and spirit producers.”
What are you most looking forward to Bar Convent Brooklyn?
“All the events look great but we can’t wait to grab a low-waste cocktail with our friends at Wasteland Paradise!”
Ivy Mix, Head Cantinera at Leyenda + Co-founder of Speed Rack
“I am looking forward to BCB coming to Brooklyn to finally bring some attention to the bar scene across the river here in NYC,” says Mix. “The cocktail culture and spirits being produced here are great and to get so many industry pros in town will be a real treat!”
Lynnette Marrero, Co-Founder of Speed Rack + Beverage Consultant
How to get the most out of Bar Convent Brooklyn
“There are so many invites swirling around for awesome events,” says Marrero. “I suggest choosing an anchor event and then popping into the others.” Make sure to get a good meal foundation, she continues. “There are plenty of amazing restaurants in and around the area to enjoy. This area of Brooklyn has really expanded. You can always pop by my spot, the Llama Inn Roof for some delicious bites as you go on your way to events back in the Williamsburg area.”
What are you most looking forward to Bar Convent Brooklyn
“I am looking forward to our @speed_rack social media takeover tomorrow on social and some live reporting from the BCB event!”
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