The buzz around zero-waste bars has grown louder and establishments promise to revolutionize the cocktail scene, aiming to reduce or eliminate waste entirely.

We’ve all seen it before: the velvet rope, the sectioned-off tables, and the gleaming “Members Only” signage. VIP experiences have been on the rise in hospitality, nightlife, and even retail.

The new year brings fresh energy to the culinary world, with innovative flavors and exciting concepts set to take over menus everywhere. From plant-based creations to nostalgic comfort bites, the trends for 2025 promise something for every taste.

The start of a new year brings the perfect excuse to explore new culinary adventures and discover hidden gems. Dining out has evolved into more than a way to eat—it’s an opportunity to connect with your community, celebrate diverse flavors, and support the heartbeat of local businesses.

The holiday season is one of the most exciting times for food lovers. Sharing meals like cozy gatherings to festive dinners is at the heart of how we celebrate.

The holiday season is a time for family gatherings, festive meals, and dreamy getaways—but it’s also when we’re most likely to feel the sting of inflated prices.

The holiday season brings with it twinkling lights, festive music, and, increasingly, menus brimming with seasonal cocktails.

Restaurants are changing. More of them are introducing child-free zones or even banning kids altogether. For some, it’s a relief—a chance to enjoy a quiet meal without distractions.

As Thanksgiving approaches, so does the buzz around holiday dining, especially for those who plan to dine out or order catering on the big day.

Thanksgiving is traditionally celebrated with a beautifully roasted turkey as the main attraction, surrounded by family favorites like buttery mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.

Pop-up restaurants have transformed the culinary scene, bringing exciting, temporary dining experiences to curious eaters worldwide

The culinary world has experienced a quiet revolution—the rise of vegan fine dining. No longer confined to niche markets or casual eateries, plant-based cuisine has infiltrated upscale restaurants and garnered the attention of Michelin-star chefs.

We now live in a digital-first world where consumers no longer rely solely on advertisements or official hotel websites to make travel decisions. Instead, they’re increasingly influenced by the firsthand experiences of other travelers—captured, shared, and amplified through user-generated content (UGC).

Brands are always seeking for new, authentic ways to engage with their target audiences on social media. One powerful trend gaining traction is the rise of micro-influencers—content creators with smaller but highly engaged followings.

We couldn’t be more thrilled with how our 4th Annual Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition turned out. It was a night filled with fierce competition, incredible drinks, and great vibes, and we owe it all to the people who helped make it happen. Here’s a special shout-out to everyone involved in making the event one to remember!

As Mean Girls Day approaches on October 3, The Loft at Duckworth's , the sponsor of the upcoming 4th Annual Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition, is stepping up with a themed celebration that’ll make any fan of the iconic movie feel right at home. The Loft, a cozy and sophisticated mid-century modern cocktail bar, is well-known for its classic drink offerings and relaxed yet chic atmosphere.

On the evening of September 30, 2024, Charlotte’s skyline was aglow with excitement as the 4th Annual Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition took over Merchant + Trade. With a view as stunning as the drinks served, the event was a perfect showcase of talent, creativity, and camaraderie among some of the city’s most innovative female mixologists.

The 4th Annual Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition is more than just a showcase of talented mixologists—it's a celebration of entrepreneurship, creativity, and community. This year, we're excited to feature two standout vendors who embody these values: Go Brazee  and Uniquely SHE.

When it comes to creating unforgettable experiences, music plays a vital role. For this event, we’ve enlisted two extraordinary talents who are masters of setting the tone and keeping the energy alive throughout the night. Fannie Mae and Micki Blendz are more than just DJs—they’re artists, storytellers, and curators of vibes, each with their own unique style.

The Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition is not only a celebration of female mixology talent, but also a showcase of the expertise and creativity of the judges, who bring years of experience and innovation to the table.