MY BIO
I've spent over 20 years working behind and managing bars, honing my craft and passion for hospitality. Originally from Winnipeg, MB, Canada, I've worked in all sorts of establishments across the country and have now been based in Vancouver, BC since 2011. Throughout my time on the west coast, I've had the pleasure of working in many of Vancouver's top-tier restaurants and bars.
Over the years, I've collected a number of certifications and credentials, and many consider me to be one of Canada's most certified and educated bartenders. These include the Level 3 Diploma in Spirits from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET), as well as certifications from the International Sommelier Guild, Beverage Alcohol Resource Group, West Indies Rum and Spirit Producers Association, Consejo Regulador del Tequila, Society of Wine Educators, and Pernod Ricard & École Hôtelière de Lausanne. I'm also a certified educator for the entire spirits curriculum from WSET. I suppose all these pieces of paper somewhat validate my overflowing collection of cocktail, bartending, and spirit books.
In 2018, I was named Vancouver's Best Bar Personality and won the prestigious Tahona Society bartending competition. I'm also the managing partner and cocktail director for both Laowai and Bagheera in Vancouver. Since opening, both establishments have garnered numerous accolades, including being named Canada's Best New Bar by Canada's 100 Best and being listed as Canadian regional honourees for World's Best New Cocktail Bar by Tales of the Cocktail.
When I'm not behind the bar or managing my establishments, I love to travel and immerse myself in different food and drink cultures. I've also conducted seminars for hospitality and bartending professionals all over the globe. Another passion of mine is my involvement in the Mind the Bar mental health initiative, a topic I've become very passionate about in recent times.
At the end of the day, I'm just a bartender who loves what he does and strives to continue learning and growing in the industry.
Fun Fact: Fun Fact: I was once an award-winning champion competitive drummer and high-level rugby player.
Pursuits like these have taught me the value of setting goals, working tirelessly to achieve them, and constantly striving to improve. I bring this same level of dedication to every project I work on, ensuring that my clients receive the highest level of service and results.
CURRENT PROJECTS
PREVIOUS PROJECTS
