Today we’d like to introduce you to Lolecia Day
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
After dedicating over two decades to education, I found myself at a crossroads—I wanted something more, something that would not only ignite my passion for good food and great cocktails, but also allow me to create a space for community and connection. Throughout my career, I had tried a lot of business ventures-boutique owner, importer, real estate -but, nothing seemed to resonate quite as deeply as the dream that had lingered in the back of my mind for about 20 years: opening my own bar.
Like most people, I got bogged down with family, work and life in general; so, for many years, the idea of opening a bar was easily pushed to the back of my mind-almost to the point of being forgotten. But knowing that retirement was looming, I tried to imagine my time after the classroom. I had already promised myself that I would enjoy the rest of my life; that I would stay as true to myself as possible and make decisions based on what I wanted and how I wanted to live.
Without ever working as a bartender, I envisioned a bar that offered not just drinks, but an experience—a place where professionals could unwind, reconnect, and feel at home. I wanted to create an atmosphere with warmth, creativity, and authenticity. The fun part was studying the craft of mixology, experimenting with unique flavors, and curating a menu that reflects both classic and innovative cocktails that reflect all of my upbringing and tells some of my story: we have food and dirnk items that represent the East coast, the West coast and the South.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Opening a bar seems like a bold move- and for me it was a leap of faith wrapped in a whole lot of uncertainty. When I decided to open Day Drink Lounge, I didn’t have a hopsitality background, had never been a bartender and didn’t know the first thing about running a bar. What I did know was that I had a vision of creating a chill space with a great vibe; a place my friends and I would visit; a place that felt like community.
Even when people kept telling me that it didn’t make sense to open a bar, I kept going. I immersed myself in research. I studied everything – from making cocktails to permits and business licenses. I asked questions; visited other establishments; talked to other restaurant and bar owners; and got to work! Every setback became a lesson and every “no” became and reason to find out how to get it done another way.
The beautiful thing is that in all of this work, I found my tribe and I found a lot of support from my community
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Today, Day Drink Lounge isn’t just a bar – it’s a testament to the power of persisitence. If I can create this space with little to no roadmap and no experience, then anyone can recreate their lives at any age.
Through my story, I hope to inspire others to believe in their capacity for change. It’s never too late to pursue your passions or to pivot into a new chapter in life. I want to emphasize that every journey comes with its challenges, but it is in overcoming those challenges that we find our true purpose. So, to anyone contemplating a significant change, take that first step—embrace your dreams and trust in the process.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.daydrinklounge.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/DayDrinkLounge
- LinkedIn: https://Linkedin.com/daydrinklounge
Image Credits
All photos and images were created by and/or owned by Lolecia Day
