30 Under 30: Ivy Mix, Bartender/Bar Owner
photo by Nicolas Maloof
Last week marked the release of our annual 30 Under 30 issue, and because each of these individuals is so interesting, we thought we’d further highlight them by running some brief interviews with them.
Name: Ivy Mix
Age: 29
Neighborhood: Carroll Gardens
Occupation: Bartender/Bar Owner
Who would be your choice for a 30 Under 30?
Julia Purcell and Tess Mix of Le JIT productions.
Who are your role models in your industry?
All of the women that compete in Speed Rack who inspire me to do more and do it well.
What was a turning point for you, when you realized you could make a career out of something you loved to do?
When I first started bartending, I remember thinking it was great to actually be making money to spend time in the place I would be in anyway. It was great! Then, when I first moved to NYC and got into cocktails, there was a moment where I realized that I could be more creative and artistic than I was being in the gallery jobs I was working. I got the best of both worlds.
What’s some advice you’d have for people looking to get a foothold in your industry?
Just keep going and keep working. This is an industry that you have to make work for you.
Do you feel Brooklyn is still a viable place for young people to build a career?
Absolutely. I have made my whole life in Brooklyn. I worked only a short time in Manhattan doing cocktails and came running back. Whatever career you’re choosing, I see Brooklyn to be a self sufficient place to do that. Not all paths lead to Manhattan anymore, and I LOVE that.
Have you ever felt like leaving your career path?
Of course! Who hasn’t? I know I’ll do other things in my life though. I’ll never leave this one. I do think I have the best job in the world.
What’s felt like your biggest professional accomplishment?
Winning Best American Bartender this past year at Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards was insane. To be credited by my industry like that was a real shining light. Especially following the opening of Leyenda, I felt like my hard work was being recognized and it felt amazing.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
The million dollar question. Hopefully owning or be part of a few different bars around the country and world. Perhaps living part time in the Hudson Valley and doing a project up there. Maybe in Spain!
