A Ramsgate mum-of-three has been shortlisted for a business award after launching a mobile cocktail training experience last year.
Nickie Butcher was prompted to create her business after holding garden parties last summer where guests went crazy for her cocktails.
Nickie, who works as a cleaner during the day, decided to turn her former bar experience into a fun business and Olives & Umbrellas was born.
The 36-year-old said: “The cost of living crisis made me start thinking of ways to earn some extra money. I applied for a start up loan which was granted and then went and bought all the stuff I needed and created a website.
“People hire me with a minimum of four people and then I turn up and set up either indoors or outdoors depending on the weather.
“I bring everything with me, the decorations, tables and chairs, glasses, everything needed for the cocktails and then set up. I like it to be an elegant set up.
“I take them through how to make cocktails, we usually do around three with party games in-between.”
Nickie sends customers a questionnaire so she can tailor the drinks to suit their tastes and there is Prosecco and nibbles to start to break the ice plus a personalised goodie bag to finish.
The creative business idea has led to Olives & Umbrellas being shortlisted in the best start up category of the Made in Kent radio food and drink awards.
The winners will be announced at a ceremony in Bromley on April 18th.
Nickie has recently teamed up with Westgate florist Mel’s Blooms to offer inclusive age parties for hen dos and family celebrations and will be at the Royal Oak wedding fayre on March 17th.
Before that, on March 15, she is teaming up with Bar 7 in Margate High Street for a cocktail making evening from 6pm-8pm, £45 per person.
There is also the chance to win a Spring cocktail hamper. Find the details on the Olives & Umbrellas facebook page here
Nickie hopes the Made in Kent awards will shine a light on her business and help her expand it into a full-time venture.
Find the website at: https://www.olivesandumbrellas.com/