Pop-up restaurants have transformed the culinary scene, bringing exciting, temporary dining experiences to curious eaters worldwide

The culinary world has experienced a quiet revolution—the rise of vegan fine dining. No longer confined to niche markets or casual eateries, plant-based cuisine has infiltrated upscale restaurants and garnered the attention of Michelin-star chefs.

We now live in a digital-first world where consumers no longer rely solely on advertisements or official hotel websites to make travel decisions. Instead, they’re increasingly influenced by the firsthand experiences of other travelers—captured, shared, and amplified through user-generated content (UGC).

Brands are always seeking for new, authentic ways to engage with their target audiences on social media. One powerful trend gaining traction is the rise of micro-influencers—content creators with smaller but highly engaged followings.

We couldn’t be more thrilled with how our 4th Annual Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition turned out. It was a night filled with fierce competition, incredible drinks, and great vibes, and we owe it all to the people who helped make it happen. Here’s a special shout-out to everyone involved in making the event one to remember!

As Mean Girls Day approaches on October 3, The Loft at Duckworth's , the sponsor of the upcoming 4th Annual Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition, is stepping up with a themed celebration that’ll make any fan of the iconic movie feel right at home. The Loft, a cozy and sophisticated mid-century modern cocktail bar, is well-known for its classic drink offerings and relaxed yet chic atmosphere.

On the evening of September 30, 2024, Charlotte’s skyline was aglow with excitement as the 4th Annual Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition took over Merchant + Trade. With a view as stunning as the drinks served, the event was a perfect showcase of talent, creativity, and camaraderie among some of the city’s most innovative female mixologists.

The 4th Annual Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition is more than just a showcase of talented mixologists—it's a celebration of entrepreneurship, creativity, and community. This year, we're excited to feature two standout vendors who embody these values: Go Brazee  and Uniquely SHE.

When it comes to creating unforgettable experiences, music plays a vital role. For this event, we’ve enlisted two extraordinary talents who are masters of setting the tone and keeping the energy alive throughout the night. Fannie Mae and Micki Blendz are more than just DJs—they’re artists, storytellers, and curators of vibes, each with their own unique style.

The Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition is not only a celebration of female mixology talent, but also a showcase of the expertise and creativity of the judges, who bring years of experience and innovation to the table.

If you're seeking a cocktail experience that combines mid-century elegance with modern flair, The Loft at Duckworth's is a must-visit. Proudly sponsoring the 4th Annual Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition, this sophisticated venue located at 4625 Piedmont Row Dr Suite 115A, Charlotte, NC, offers a perfect blend of expertly crafted cocktails, fine wine, craft beer, and small bites.

The 4th Annual Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition wouldn’t be complete without its incredible distillery partners. From whiskey and rum to gin and tequila, these craft distillers bring exciting flavors to the forefront. Discover more about these distilleries, including tours, cocktail classes, event spaces, and recipes, to elevate your cocktail experience.

Cecilia Crook’s journey into mixology began like many in the hospitality industry: as a young cocktail waitress. At just 18, she got her start at the Hard Rock Casino in Tampa, Florida. However, it wasn’t long before her natural curiosity, creativity, and love for people propelled her beyond the service counter and into the world of crafting cocktails.

Nakyra Brown’s path to becoming a mixologist started in a way many others do: serving in the food industry. With over 10 years of experience, she first got her start serving tables, but it didn’t take long for her to realize where her true passion lay.

Rosalynn Cannon’s journey into mixology is a testament to her deep-seated love for food and flavor. Her passion for understanding how spices and herbs can transform a dish naturally extended into the world of spirits, where she discovered the joy of elevating drinks.

Molly Newton’s journey into mixology is deeply intertwined with her roots in the restaurant industry. Having grown up in a family that managed and worked in restaurants, Molly was practically destined for a life in hospitality. She started working at 16, and by the time she turned 21, she found herself behind the bar, where she quickly discovered her passion.

When you walk into a bar and see Lee behind it, you're in for a treat. This mixologist brings a unique blend of creativity and confidence to every cocktail she crafts. Inspired by her mother, who was also a bartender, Lee's curiosity about the industry started early. But it wasn't until she was thrown into a bartending role that her journey truly began. With no formal training, Lee had to learn on the fly, developing a style that's as much about instinct as it is about skill.

Jenna’s journey into the world of mixology is as unique as her cocktail creations. Originally on a path to become a theoretical mathematician, life took a sharp turn when she left school to care for her family after her mother passed away. What started as a way to pay the bills quickly turned into a lifelong passion. “Bartending found me, as opposed to me finding it,” Jenna shares.

Yolanda Gregg’s journey into mixology is a testament to the power of art and determination. With a background in classical music, Yolanda views the art of mixology as a natural extension of her creative expression. “I love the arts,” she says, “and I’m a classically trained musician. The art of mixology appeals to my artistic mind, and I use it as another way to express myself.”

Annie’s story in the world of mixology is one of curiosity, ambition, and a quest for creative freedom. Today, she stands as a talented mixologist at Billy Sunday Charlotte, where she’s not just mixing drinks—she’s crafting experiences. But how did she get here? Let’s take a deep dive into her journey, her philosophy behind the bar, and what makes her a standout in the industry.