Kirsten, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin? Thank you. As you said, my name is Kirsten Owen. I am the Owner and Chief Mixologist for Dallas Mixologist. I am a highly accredited, licensed and insured bartender mainly serving the Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan area. However, I do have many wonderful clients outside the state of Texas. I provide bartending and waitstaff services where my clients and their guests always come first.

Prior to starting my own business, I worked in the corporate and public education worlds for many years.  Finally, I decided to take my Dad’s advice and become my own boss.  I completely changed careers when I started Dallas Mixologist 6 years ago.  Since then, I have experienced much success and my business has grown year after year.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I am constantly striving to learn and grow.  With every event, I learn something new or improve upon my skills. My only significant struggle was during the COVID pandemic. The biggest surprise was that I actually thrived during the pandemic. By quickly pivoting, then adapting to and embracing the “new normal” of remote and virtual entertaining, I was able to meet my clients’ needs during that time. It has taken a lot of hard work, dedication and time but it has been worth every single minute.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My goal is for the hosts and hostesses to enjoy their events as much as their guests and to not worry about any of the details. My clients include VIPs from all across the USA: political dignitaries, Fortune 500 CEO’s, professional athletes, award winning musicians, celebrities and many more. We understand the importance of confidentiality when working with our clients.

What I do:
I specialize in bartending and mixology classes.  I have enough staff (bartenders, waitstaff, chefs, clean up crew, photographers, DJ’s, etc.) to handle a small intimate house party, a large fundraiser, a wedding reception or any size event where you need professional bartenders and waitstaff. I have consistently received 5-star reviews on every event and have many repeat clients.

What I am most proud of:
I am grateful for the multiple awards I have received over 6 years and for being nominated for Best Bartender in the World (I ended up in 5th place after 5 rounds.)
Best of 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 awards! Best Bartender for Weddings award.

What sets me apart from others:
I always go above and beyond what is expected and always with a smile. I am outgoing, professional, polite, precise and proficient! I pride myself on always keeping a clean bar and bar area. (You might say I am a bit OCD about bar organization and cleanliness.) I always do what I say. I am in constant contact with each client.

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
My industry continues to grow year after year.  More and more, we’re getting requests for innovative mocktails and non-alcoholic beverages.  That particular area is especially fun for me because I have become really creative with those drinks.