Brenda Terry is an award-winning cocktail artist living in Tampa, FL. Her passion fuels her beverage programs which aim to tell a transportive story. She has earned titles in both regional and national competitions and has worked behind some of Florida’s top bars.

Originally introduced to the craft scene while living in New York City, Brenda worked in coveted Foodie Centric Brooklyn establishments, such as Berlyn and Prime Meats. It was during this time that her love for alchemy and cocktail creation began to bloom. 

"They let me play behind the bar during the day when it was quiet. I asked a lot of questions. At night, I used to watch the bartenders pump out cocktails in high volume as though it was a simple task for them as they danced and laughed with each shake and stir. Then and there, I fell in love with the bartender."

From fashioning classic tipples to creating original recipes, She has created one-of-a-kind libations for various US and International bars, restaurants and brands. Including: 

• Ciro's, Le Meridien, The Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Art with a Twist for the Chihuly Collection, The Tampa Yacht Country Club (FL)

• Barleycorn (NC)

• Tullamore Dew (Ireland), Chartreuse (France), Bombay Sapphire (UK), Domaine de Canton (France), Elijah Craig (USA)

Brenda enjoys the challenge of competing in cocktail competitions and has entered events at both regional and national levels earning the following titles:

• Heaven Hill's Bartender of the Year Regional Winner | 2017

• Bombay Sapphire’s Most Imaginative Bartender Award, Southeast Regional Winner & North American Finalist | 2016

• Espolon Tequila's Cocktail Fight Champion & National Finalist | 2016

• Bombay Sapphire’s Most Imaginative Bartender Award, Southeast Regional Winner | 2015

• Bombay Sapphire’s Most Imaginative Bartender, North American Finalist | 2015

• Best Cocktail in the Bay, Art With a Twist | 2014

Brenda strongly believes in adhering to craft standards. She can provide training and spirit consultations for your establishment, including but not limited to:

• Evaluating your current cocktail program

• Select and train your staff in the “art” of the drink

• Teach your bartenders to create classic cocktails that pair well with food, culture and atmosphere, and choose spirits based on climate, location and clientele

• Host cocktail creation classes for private or corporate events

Brenda is also available to hire as a bartender, offering a unique, customized experience for your social event. To learn more, please click on The Happy Owl bar tab. 

Photography courtesy of Mark Tomaras | marktomaras.com