Dare to Flair

Tales of a Professional Showoff

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

Dare to Flair?

It seems every bar you go to these days, you will see someone throwing bottles in the air, jumping up on the bar, or lighting something on fire.

Flair bartending is the term used to describe these actions. It is showmanship mixed with bartending to enhance the guest’s overall experience.

The earliest record of a flair bartender comes from the mid 1800’s. Legendary barman Jerry “The Professor” Thomas, who would pour fiery streams of boiling water and scotch into his own unique cocktail called the Blue Blazer.

Most people will recognize flair from the movie “Cocktail”, starring Tom Cruise. It has come a very long way since those days and if you want to stay on the bartender’s good side…don’t call him Tom.

These days the FBA (Flair Bartenders Association), and the WFA (World Flair Association), are the recognized governing bodies on the sport, with memberships of over 12,000 bartenders in more than 100 countries.

I am a member of the FBA and have been flairing for almost 5 years now. In that time, I have been able to pick where I want to work, I am the senior Flair instructor at BartenderOne.com, made various T.V. appearances, and even landed a Mike’s Hard Lemonade commercial! To view, click here. http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9j4B51k5tc

The sport of Flair bartending has changed me in many ways. I am thankful for the opportunities that have come my way because of it.

If you are thinking about getting into flair, I will warn you. It is highly addictive.

Visit www.bartenderone.com to get started.

Cheers!

posted by admin at 11:05 am  
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