10 Things to Remember When Going to a Mixology Class

10 Things to Remember When Going to a Mixology Class: Your Ultimate Guide to Shaking Up Success

Introduction: Stirring Up Skills, Style, and Spirits

Mixology isn't just about pouring drinks—it's an art form, a science, and a sensory experience. Whether you're a cocktail enthusiast, a hospitality professional, or someone just curious about the craft of cocktails, attending a mixology class is a great way to expand your palate, master new techniques, and connect with like-minded people.

But just like crafting the perfect cocktail, preparation is key to making the most of your experience. From attire to attitude, what you bring to class can shape how much you learn, how comfortable you feel, and how memorable the event becomes.

In this blog post, we’ll shake, stir, and pour out the 10 most important things to remember when going to a mixology class, ensuring you’re ready to mix, sip, and impress.

1. Comfortable Clothing: Dress to Shake with Confidence

You’ll be standing, moving, shaking, and possibly spilling. That makes comfortable clothing a top priority for your mixology class. You want to be stylish but practical, especially since you might be working near liquid, fire, and glass.

Ideal attire:

• Breathable fabrics like cotton or linen

• Dark or patterned colors to hide minor spills

• Apron-friendly outfits (no bulky tops or sleeves)

• Professional but relaxed if it's a networking event

You don’t need to show up in bartending attire unless it’s a professional workshop, but dress in a way that boosts your confidence and keeps you comfortable.

#clothing #comfort #mixology #learning

2. Closed-Toe Shoes: Shake Safely

Spilled ice, slippery floors, shattered glasses—these are all part of the bar world. That’s why most mixology classes (especially those held in professional bars or kitchens) require closed-toe shoes.

Look for:

• Non-slip soles

• Comfortable fit for standing long periods

• Breathable material (especially in warm environments)

Safety first! It’s hard to focus on technique when you’re worried about a stubbed toe or slippery surface.

#shoes #safety #mixology

3. Notebook and Pen: Capture Every Drop of Knowledge

Whether you're learning how to properly muddle herbs, build balanced flavors, or use bar tools correctly, there will be a lot of valuable info thrown your way.

Take notes on:

• Recipes and proportions

• Bar techniques (stirring, shaking, layering)

• Flavor profiles and ingredient substitutes

• Personal impressions and favorite mixes

A notebook also helps you build your own cocktail journal, which is great for practice at home or when planning your next event.

#notebook #notes #learning

4. Water Bottle: Hydration is Essential

Between sips of cocktails, it's crucial to stay hydrated—especially if you're attending a multi-hour session where you’re tasting alcohol. Having your own water bottle ensures you can cleanse your palate and stay refreshed.

Tips:

• Bring a reusable bottle with a secure lid

• Alternate water with tastings to stay clear-headed

• Don’t rely on the venue to provide water

Smart mixologists know how to stay sharp throughout class—and hydration is a major part of that.

#hydration #beverage #comfort

5. Recipe Cards: Build Your Personal Cocktail Library

If you’re serious about mastering mixology, bring along a set of blank recipe cards or a dedicated cocktail notebook. These make it easy to jot down recipes as you learn them, and they’re great for organizing your go-to drinks later.

Ideas for use:

• Record base spirits, mixers, and garnishes

• Write down garnishing tips or glassware suggestions

• Save signature twists or instructor tips

Eventually, you’ll build a personalized collection of recipes that reflect your style.

#recipe #learning #mixology

6. Personal Towel: Keep It Clean, Stay in Control

Things get messy when you're dealing with citrus, syrups, ice, and shakers. Bringing a small personal towel helps you wipe down your station, dry your hands, or clean up a quick spill without skipping a beat.

What to bring:

• A microfiber or cotton towel

• Lightweight, easily foldable

• Something you don’t mind staining with bitters or fruit juice

Staying clean and organized is part of looking—and feeling—like a pro.

#towel #cleaning #mixology

7. Positive Attitude: The Secret Ingredient in Every Glass

Mixology is fun, interactive, and full of trial and error. You'll likely make a few messy drinks before mastering the shake, and that's perfectly okay. The most important thing to bring is a positive attitude.

Keep in mind:

• Everyone's learning, even the pros

• Be open to feedback and experimenting

• Encourage your classmates and share discoveries

• Don’t stress over perfection—aim for progress

Approach the experience with curiosity, humility, and enthusiasm, and you’ll walk away inspired and more confident.

#attitude #learning #experience

8. Camera: Capture the Flair and Flavor

A camera or smartphone is a must at a mixology class. From colorful ingredients and beautifully garnished drinks to action shots of shaking and flaming, there’s no shortage of photo ops.

Photography tips:

• Snap step-by-step shots for future reference

• Take a group photo or “cheers” moment at the end

• Use burst mode to capture the perfect shake or pour

• Share your creations on social media to inspire others

Just be mindful of others’ privacy and check if flash photography is allowed.

#camera #photography #cocktails

9. Business Cards: Connect and Collaborate

Whether you’re an aspiring bartender, a food blogger, or a hospitality professional, a mixology class is a great networking opportunity. Bring a few business cards to exchange with instructors, classmates, or potential collaborators.

Good networking etiquette:

• Be genuine and interested in others’ work

• Ask questions and share your own passion

• Don’t oversell—just connect and let conversation flow

You never know when a casual chat might lead to an invite, a job, or a collaboration.

#networking #mixology #learning

10. Research Cocktail Basics: Come Prepared to Learn

You don’t need to be a pro, but doing a little research ahead of time will help you get more out of the class. Understanding the basics of cocktail structure, spirits, and bar tools makes it easier to absorb what the instructor is teaching.

Learn about:

• The difference between shaking and stirring

• Classic cocktails (Margarita, Old Fashioned, Negroni)

• Base spirits (vodka, rum, whiskey, gin, tequila)

• Tools like jiggers, strainers, and bar spoons

The more you know going in, the faster you’ll be able to apply, adapt, and innovate.

#research #cocktails #learning

Bonus Tips to Elevate Your Mixology Class Experience

✅ Arrive Early

Secure a good seat, explore the setup, and relax before the lesson begins.

✅ Ask Questions

Instructors love engaged students. Ask about techniques, flavor pairing, or their favorite creations.

✅ Don’t Drink It All

You may be making multiple cocktails—consider tasting and dumping instead of finishing every drink to stay sharp.

✅ Bring a Tote Bag

You may get recipe handouts, small tools, or swag to take home.

✅ Follow Up Online

Many instructors offer online classes, recipes, or community groups you can join later.

Final Thoughts: Your Mixology Journey Begins Here

A mixology class is more than just a few drinks—it's a deep dive into flavor, culture, creativity, and craft. With the right preparation, you can turn your class into an unforgettable experience that boosts your skills, connects you with others, and maybe even launches a new hobby or career path.

So pack your comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, notebook, water bottle, recipe cards, towel, camera, business cards, and most importantly, your positive attitude. Do a little research on cocktail basics, and get ready to shake things up in style.

Cheers to your mixology adventure!