54 www.CharlestonWomenPodcast.com | www.ReadCW.com | www.Instagram.com/CharlestonWomen The history of women in mixology, the art or skill of preparing mixed drinks, is rich, though sometimes overlooked. Women have been essential to developing cocktails and the art of bartending despite often being excluded or pushed to the background. In Charleston, many women mixologists and bartenders have changed the beverage program we see at bars today. THE COCKTAIL BANDITS Johnny Caldwell and Taneka Reaves, better known as the Cocktail Bandits, have transformed the mixology world since 2016. With previous partnerships with Red Bull and Patron, amongst others, and the launch of their cocktail book, Caldwell and Reaves have carved out their niche in the mixology scene. “For women entering this industry, my main advice is to learn as much as possible,” shared Caldwell. “You gain confidence when you understand your craft. I can discuss cognac and tequila; I can hold my own in any conversation.” KALL ME TIPSY The scientific aspect of mixology is akin to chemistry. Monae Mitchell, also known as Kall Me Tipsy, is one who truly understands the chemistry in mixology. Mitchell didn’t start out as a bartender. As a student, she majored in biology at Winthrop University and enjoyed STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) subjects. She worked in various labs, mixing compounds and delving into the art of chemistry. Since no one in her family trusted her to cook, Mitchell brought cocktails to family gatherings. “I treated it as my chemistry lab for mixing drinks,” Mitchell shared. She would later pick up a serving shift at the Blue Note Bistro, and the rest is history. “I earned my bartending license in college to work behind the bar,” she explained. Mitchell then realized she could merge her love of science with her natural role as the “beverage bringer” and transform it into something bigger, leading to the launch of her cocktail bartending services venture, Kall Me Tipsy. Mitchell operated in a male-dominated environment, but what if your entire staff were female-led? It would make a difference. THE BETTER POUR Walking into O-Ku on King Street, the first thing you might notice is that the entire bar staff is composed of women. “The camaraderie behind the bar, the skill set, it’s just different,” said Stephanie Funderburk, area director for the Indigo Road Hospitality Group. With her nine years of experience in the industry, Funderburk learned the Mixing it Up Women mixologists raising the bar BY MAURICE J. FRAZIER Charleston Women in Food Monae Mitchell. Stephanie Funderburk. Johnny Caldwell and Taneka Reaves.
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