Cocktail making made easier

During the Covid lockdown, Emel Uyal found herself out of work for the best part of a year and having to claim Universal Credit. Like so many, the time allowed her to truly examine the trajectory of her life and realise her own career aspirations. During this time, she took part in the REED college program and discovered a cocktail course that she was interested in. Upon completion she realised the course wasn’t actually fit for purpose and that it only briefly skimmed over aspects of the drinks industry.

This is when she decided to start her business - The Aristocrat Cocktail Collective. The business is made up of several components, the main being e-commerce. Emel is currently writing a theory and practical course around alcohol and mixology, to provide adequate training for bartenders and future mixologists within the hospitality industry. Once the course is written, it is her intention to offer the course to REED college, to enable out of work individuals within the hospitality industry to gain more in-depth knowledge and wider employability skills within the mixology and hospitality sector.

Another aspect of the business is masterclasses, these teach people how to create and mix their own cocktails. This practical masterclass will eventually be merged with the course and it is her intention to get the course accredited.

The business can also provide a mobile bar, available for hire and a bottled cocktail business where consumers can order cocktail creations delivered straight to their door. Emel is also developing her own brand of cocktail equipment.

Emel said: “Business Doncaster has been absolutely brilliant! I obtained the Economic Recovery Grant that enabled me to buy the necessary equipment and have received business support, help and advice throughout my journey. With the help from Business Doncaster, my vision to start my business has become a reality and for that I will be forever grateful.

“I am also looking for a small venue and planning additional long term goals in order to expand my business and brand. The future is exciting!”

For further information visit @TheAristocratCocktailCollective on facebook, call 07766 024480 or email: Elle-Uyal@outlook.com