Looking to hire a Mixologist in London ? Find a qualified Mixologist with Brigad

Mixologists are skilled and trained professionals who can make cocktails that most bar staff can’t, and many bars, whether in restaurants, hotels, or events, can’t manage without them.

Understanding the role of a Mixologist

The role of a mixologist extends beyond just mixing drinks. They are the innovators and creators in the world of beverages, combining an intricate understanding of flavors, ingredients, and techniques to craft unique cocktails tailored to the tastes and preferences of guests

These professionals are more than just bar staff; they are entertainers. They engage guests with their cocktail-making skills, producing more than just a drink, but a memorable show. Their role can significantly enhance the guest experience, making your event more dynamic and exciting.

Mixologists also possess deep knowledge of spirits, mixers, and garnishes, allowing them to prepare each cocktail with precision and flair. This expansive knowledge is also used to collaborate with event staff, ensuring that each drink complements the overall theme and cuisine of the event.

In the context of mobile bar hire, they can offer bespoke services, crafting a cocktail menu around your tastes and event theme. They come equipped with all necessary cocktail making equipment and can provide a shopping list or even discounted prices on ingredients. Their involvement can truly elevate your event, making it an extraordinary experience for guests.

Distinguishing Between a Mixologist and a Bartender

While both the professional operate within the sphere of drink preparation, their roles and skillsets are quite distinct. A bartender's role is primarily service-oriented, focusing on efficiently serving drinks, managing crowds, and maintaining a tidy bar area. They are the frontline of customer interaction, excelling in quick service and hospitality.

On the other hand, a mixologist is akin to a cocktail scientist, with a deeper understanding of the craft. Their expertise lies in developing new cocktails, understanding the intricacies of flavors, and experimenting with unique ingredients. They may go through the same training as bar staff but their knowledge extends beyond basic drink preparation.

These roles can overlap, and a bartender can also be a mixologist, but the latter's role is generally more specialized and creative.

Cost Considerations When Hiring a Mixologist in London

When planning to hire in London, the financial aspect becomes a vital consideration. The cost varies depending on several factors, including:

• Experience: Experienced professionals with a proven track record in delivering outstanding service may charge higher fees.
• Event Duration: Rates may increase for events that run beyond the typical 4-hour service window.
• Services Required: If you need additional services like crafting a personalized drink menu or providing specialty ice and premium garnishes, expect to pay more.
• Number of Guests: Larger events may require multiple mixologists, increasing the overall cost.

Always discuss your budget upfront to avoid any surprises later.

Mixologists traditional hiring methods

Hiring  in London's competitive and vibrant hospitality scene requires a keen understanding of both the craft of cocktail making and the nuances of the local job market. Traditional hiring methods, while established, face limitations in today's fast-paced industry environment, especially when it comes to roles that require a specific skill set like mixology.

Industry Networking Events and Mixology CompetitionsE

Leveraging industry-specific events, such as mixology competitions, trade shows, and networking meetups, has been a traditional method to scout for talent. These venues offer employers a chance to see mixologists in action, showcasing their skills and creativity.

Limitation: While effective in identifying highly skilled individuals, this method can be time-consuming and may not always align with immediate hiring needs. Additionally, it limits the candidate pool to those who participate in or attend these events, potentially overlooking talented mixologists who might not have the means or inclination to engage in the competitive scene.

Job Advertisements in Industry Magazines and Websites

Placing ads in well-regarded hospitality industry publications or on specialized job boards targets professionals actively seeking career opportunities in mixology.

Limitation: This approach can be costly, with advertising fees adding up quickly. Moreover, the reach is limited to the publication's audience, which, while targeted, might not encompass all potential candidates, especially those less engaged with traditional job search methods.

Walk-in Interviews and Open Calls

Hosting open call interviews or encouraging walk-in applications allows establishments to meet a wide range of candidates in a short period. This method can be particularly appealing for businesses looking to fill positions quickly.

Limitation: The quality of candidates may vary widely, requiring significant time and resources to identify those with the desired mixology skills and experience. Additionally, the spontaneous nature of walk-ins and open calls might not attract the most skilled mixologists, who may prefer more formalized recruitment processes.

Use of Temp Agencies

Temp agencies specializing in hospitality can provide pre-vetted mixologists for temporary or permanent positions. This method offers convenience by reducing the initial time and effort required for screening candidates.

Limitation: The primary drawbacks include high costs associated with agency fees and a potential mismatch in long-term fit for the establishment's specific needs and culture. Additionally, mixologists sourced through agencies may have less commitment to the venue's success, affecting the consistency and quality of the cocktail offerings.

Choosing the Best Mixology Services for Your Party

When choosing the best mixology services, consider the experience and expertise of the mixologists. Look for those who have a strong understanding of the art of mixology and can craft a wide array of cocktails. Also, assess their creativity and presentation skills, as they can turn your party into a unique experience.

Check if the service includes all necessary bar equipment and ingredients or if you need to provide them. Some mixologists come with their own cocktail making kits, glasses, ice buckets, and ingredients which can be a big plus.

Consider the pricing structure. Some services charge per hour, while others offer packages. Make sure to clarify what is included in the cost to avoid unexpected fees.

Finally, customer reviews and recommendations can provide valuable insights. Look for mixologists who are praised for their professionalism, reliability, and the quality of their cocktails.

The Art of Hiring Cocktail Makers for Parties

When hiring cocktail makers for parties, there are several factors to consider. You need to identify the type of event you're hosting and the audience's preferences.

• For a casual get-together, a mixologist who can create simple yet tasty cocktails can suffice.
• For a sophisticated atmosphere, you might want to hire a mixologist with extensive knowledge of classic cocktails and the ability to craft unique, personalized concoctions.

Remember, a good mixologist should also be a good storyteller, capable of engaging your guests and enhancing their overall experience.

Location is another crucial aspect to consider. Ensure your chosen mixologist can cater to your area.

Lastly, discuss your budget and the duration of the service. The average party booking length is about 4 hours, but this can vary based on your specific needs.

Looking to hire a Mixologist for your busy bar or event ?

Are you looking to hire a qualified mixologist for your bar, restaurant, corporate catering event, venue, or hotel food & beverage (F&B) operation ?

Whether it's for a wedding, a special evening, a party, or even to strengthen your bar team, finding a reliable mixologist can sometimes be a tedious task.

If you have not had much luck with job boards or the use of temp agencies, and candidates in the hospitality and catering sector are not rushing in, lack motivation, or have not got the experience or skills you are looking for, Brigad is here to provide a solution.

Publish short-term work offers on the Brigad app or website to interested independent freelance Mixologists and other hospitality professionals, who are ready to work and able to pick up short-term shifts and fill gaps in your staffing rota.

With the Brigad business app (available for download via the App Store or Google Play) or website, you can be easily connected with the Mixologist your business needs.

To start with, simply download the Brigad Business app via the App Store or Google Play. Create an account and you can get started. 

Sign-up for free and post a mission corresponding to your needs for a Mixologist in under 3 minutes. Chances are that your mission will be accepted within a matter of hours by a qualified Mixologist. 

How to use Brigad when looking to hire a Mixologist?

Restaurant, pub, bar, café, and hotel food & beverage (F&B) managers, owners, or operators looking to hire independent Mixologists or other hospitality professionals can easily create a mission using the Brigad app or website. Simply select the dates and times hours, days needed, the role needed, and add a description that details the requirements and expectations.

Your job offer, also known as a “mission” (the short-term shift for which you need filled), will be sent to only the most relevant, qualified, and fully vetted Mixologists who meet your criteria. Once one of them accepts the mission, you will be notified and put in contact.

The Mixologist will arrive on the day of the mission ready to work, as they will have received all the necessary information from your mission description to successfully complete the mission.

This means you can be confident in finding the right Mixologist to fulfil your business's operational needs.

No more wasting time selecting a profile from dozens, or even hundreds of options. Post a new mission on Brigad in less than 3 minutes, then just sit back and let the  algorithm handle the rest. Only the most relevant talents will receive your mission proposition, and the most motivated Mixologist will be the one to accept it.

Invoices are generated and payments are made automatically, simplifying the process for your business or organisation's finance team. This allows you to focus on running your busy restaurant, pub, bar, café, or hotel food & beverage (F&B) operation.

Need to hire a Mixologist in a hurry ? 

Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Post a mission on the Brigad business app in less than 3 minutes. Two thirds of missions are accepted in under 2 hours. Fill your staffing rotas efficiently, even in urgent, time-sensitive situations. Problem solved.

Benefits of working with Brigad when looking to hire a Mixologist

Brigad provides a range of benefits for establishments like restaurants, pubs, bars, cafes, and hotels, as well as catering venues and events in London, Birmingham, and Manchester, by facilitating connections with skilled Mixologist and other hospitality professionals.

A strict vetting process

The hospitality industry is too busy and fast-paced for people who aren’t serious and committed to the work. After a rigorous vetting process by our team of experts, only the most qualified Mixologist are offered access to the Brigad platform. 

As an owner, operator, or manager, you might worry about verifying the paperwork of the Mixologist who is coming to work for you. However, you don’t need to worry about any of that, as we handle all checks for you.

All profiles on the Brigad platform undergo a strict two-step vetting process, executed by both the app and the Brigad team. This thorough verification ensures you work with only the best independent, self-employed (inside HMRC IR35), or freelance Mixologist and other hospitality professionals. 

The backgrounds, IDs, employment history, and training of all Mixologist are verified to ensure they are reliable and experts in their field before they’re able to accept any missions on the Brigad app. This way, you can be 100% confident that the person is who they say they are and have a legal right to live and work in the UK.

Essential Soft Skills of Mixologists in the Brigad Community

• Customer Service and Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional ability to interact with customers, understand their preferences, and make recommendations that enhance their experience. Mixologists should be approachable, engaging, and able to build rapport with patrons, creating a welcoming and memorable atmosphere.
• Creativity and Innovation: The art of mixology is not just about following recipes but also about inventing new ones. A mixologist should have a creative mindset, continuously experimenting with flavors and presentations to offer unique and exciting drinks that set the establishment apart.
• Attention to Detail: Precision in measuring, mixing, and serving is crucial for maintaining consistency and quality in drink preparation. A keen eye for detail ensures that each cocktail is made to perfection, meeting the establishment's standards and customer expectations.
• Stress Management and Multitasking: Working in a fast-paced environment, often under pressure, requires the ability to manage stress effectively. Mixologists must be adept at multitasking, handling multiple orders simultaneously while maintaining composure and ensuring that each drink is crafted with care.
• Team Collaboration: Although mixologists often work independently, they are part of a larger team. The ability to collaborate effectively with other staff members, including bartenders, servers, and kitchen staff, ensures smooth operation and enhances the overall service quality.

Only work with driven freelance professionals on Brigad

Freelance Mixologist and other hospitality professionals represent their own interests and build their own network of customers, which is why they are particularly reliable and motivated. So, you don’t have to worry about last-minute surprises, like a no-show an hour before a busy restaurant opens or a wedding feast needs to be cooked.

A dedicated assistance team

A member of the account management and customer experience will be assigned to you to provide support during your first month on Brigad to make sure that you understand the features and are making the most of the platform. Should any problems arise, our responsive Assistance Team is available seven days a week to ensure that solutions are readily available for any situation that might be encountered.

How much does it cost to hire a Mixologist in London ?

All prices are dynamically calculated to consider tension rates, ensuring competitive pricing tailored to your specific requirements. 

The cost is determined by multiplying an hourly rate by the number of hours you need a Mixologist for. When you create a mission, you'll receive an instant quote. 

This is the fixed price you pay once a self-employed Mixologist accepts your mission, so there are no surprise costs or hidden charges.

A dynamic pricing means that costs are competitively calculated for each new mission. 

You have control over the pricing, allowing you to adjust it upwards if needed. This flexibility can enhance the likelihood of your mission being quickly accepted by talented independent hospitality and catering professionals in London and its surrounding areas.