Bartenders (or mixologists, if you fancy) play all sorts of roles: customer relations experts (they spend their entire shifts mingling with customers with various personalities), therapists, and concerned parents (some call you an Uber after you’ve had too much revelry).
But at their core, they’re master mixologists. Cocktail conjurers. And the best ones? The true virtuosos? They’re skilled at creating something truly magical, artistic even, with their wall of liquor.
That’s why Rellies Hospitality, a premium company founded by Terrill Patterson in 2014 and whose commitment to excellence is etched in their motto, ‘We Only Know Premium,’ continues to celebrate their commendable achievements and provide a platform where the crème de la crème of the hospitality industry garner the recognition and accolade they so rightfully deserve.
When we spoke to Terrill, he was clear, on his mission:
A Couple of years ago I wanted to give back to the hospitality industry in Atlanta, A lot of the chefs, a lot of the DJs and the bartenders and servers don’t get that much recognition…I wanted to give them recognition.
Enter The Mixologist Of The Year Awards (M.O.Y.A).
All About The 4th Annual Rellies Atlanta Hospitality Awards
The Mixologist Of The Year Awards, or M.O.Y.A, is an annual extravaganza where top-notch hospitality workers are lauded for their artistry, tip-top service, and unmistakable je ne sais quoi.
But it’s more than a mere event. M.O.Y.A is a reverent nod to the soul of hospitality, a heartwarming narrative that goes beyond crowning the best – it’s a celebration, a heartfelt tribute to the professionals whose every stirred, shaken, and served cocktail mirrors dedication and passion.
This year, the stage was set at North Avenue, Downtown Atlanta, as Rellies Hospitality hosted Season 4 of the M.O.Y.A, and to say it was hands down the most spectacular event of the year would be an understatement.
Sponsored by Mercer + Prince Whisky, the event featured 15 maestro mixologists who didn’t just mix, pour, and shake, they served fashion, excellence and, class on our red carpet.
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The drinks?
A dazzling dance of flavors, each concoction telling a riveting story.
Their mission? To be crowned ‘Most Prolific Bartender Of The Year.’
After what can only be described as wizardry, a Hogwarts-worthy display of skill and creativity, the illustrious title went to Jeremy Hayes, an alchemist of concoction and the Midtown Melee III Winner hailing from Atlanta.
Nicholas Kaylan (ATL), the Best of the East Invitational Winner, came in second, while Elena Ramage took the third spot.
Other finalists included Shane Smith from N.Y.C, Sophia Greathouse from Washington D.C, ED Warner from Houston, Joshua Scheller from Nashville, Breyunna Moseley from Houston, Belinda Perdomo Wynwood Miami War in Wynwood, Kaylee Mohamed from Detroit, Chef Sosa, among others.
Beyond the Mixologist Awards, the event recognized excellence in the culinary world with the Chef Edge Awards, which renowned Chef Chad Hester (Chef Sosa) took home.
There was also the Energize-R DJ Battle award that found its way into the skilled hands of DJ Cjay.
The Chef Edge Awards nominees were nominated by their peers in the Atlanta Market in recognition of their resilience, artistry, innovation, and significant contributions to the ever-bustling hospitality industry in Atlanta.
We had the privilege of covering this remarkable red-carpet event alongside Xquisite Marketing.
Through exclusive interviews and hearty chats, we connected with talented mixologists, chefs, and DJs who graced the occasion.
So join us below as we explore their insights and reflections on a night where passion, dedication, and the spirit of hospitality shone brightly.
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The very dapper winners circle!?
Damian Mini Recap
So what’s next you ask?
The festivities march on! Rellies Moya is gearing up to extend their jubilant tribute to hospitality staff, reaching beyond the vibrant city of Atlanta to embrace talent and dedication across the entire nation.
The Windy City awaits – Chicago, get ready to join the celebration!
