Welcome to Shake, Sip, Serve, your one-stop shop for all things bartending.
I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades. I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavor combinations, and learning a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.
Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide. In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets.
I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests. So, grab your shaker, dust off your favorite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Looking After Your Health
Bartending is physically and mentally demanding late nights, heavy lifting, long hours on your feet, and constant interaction with people.
If you don’t look after yourself, you’ll burn out fast.
I myself have been cought out working doubles and eating fast food at 3am on the way back from a shift and trust me it is not worth the pain!
Sleep
- Invest in blackout curtains or a sleep mask if you’re getting home at sunrise.
- Stick to a routine, even if it means sleeping 3 a.m.–11 a.m.
- Avoid too much caffeine after your shift — it makes winding down harder.
Diet
- Eat before your shift. Skipping meals and relying on bar snacks is a rookie mistake.
- Bring healthy snacks (nuts, fruit, wraps) to avoid greasy fast food post-shift.
- Stay hydrated — water behind the bar is a must.
Mental Health
- Hospitality can be stressful. Take time to recharge outside of work.
- Build hobbies that aren’t hospitality-related.
- Don’t be afraid to seek support — whether that’s from mates, family, or professionals.
note: I used to finish shifts with a kebab at 4 a.m. three nights a week. Fun at first, but unsustainable. Swapping it for a packed wrap and water made me feel 100x better.
Managing Money on Casual Shifts
Most bartending jobs in Australia are casual, which means higher hourly pay but no guaranteed hours. Learning to manage money early is crucial.
- Budget for fluctuations: Some weeks you’ll have five shifts, others maybe two. Plan for both.
- Set aside tax savings: Casual workers often don’t have enough withheld. Put a little aside each pay.
- Use penalty rates: Nights, weekends, and public holidays can pay significantly more — use these to build a buffer.
- Avoid “bartender spending traps”: Finishing work at 3 a.m. and heading out can eat half your pay. Choose carefully which nights you join in.
Pro Tip: Use a simple app or even a notebook to track shifts, hours, and tips. Seeing the numbers clearly makes it easier to plan.
Networking with Other Bartenders
One of bartending’s biggest perks is the community. The industry thrives on connections, and many jobs are offered by word of mouth.
- Make friends with your team: They’ll recommend you for shifts elsewhere if you work well.
- Attend industry events: Spirit tastings, cocktail competitions, and training sessions are networking goldmines.
- Use social media: Follow Australian bars, bartenders, and brands on Instagram. Engaging with posts builds visibility.
- Share knowledge: Bartenders love swapping recipes, hacks, and stories. The more you give, the more you’ll get back.
Story: I once filled in at a tiny pub through a mate I’d met at a whiskey tasting. That one gig snowballed into a year of steady shifts at multiple venues. Networking is everything.
Avoiding Burnout
Hospitality has one of the highest burnout rates, but it doesn’t have to be your story.
- Set boundaries: Learn to say no to extra shifts if you’re exhausted.
- Rotate your schedule: Mix in day shifts or quieter venues when you can.
- Take proper breaks: Step outside for fresh air during long shifts.
- Separate work and life: Don’t let every conversation be about bartending.
RSA reminder: Burnout also increases mistakes—overpouring, missing ID checks, or misjudging intoxication. Protecting your health protects your compliance too.
Making Bartending Fun and Sustainable
At the end of the day, bartending should be fun — otherwise, why do it?
- Experiment with creativity: Try new garnishes, mocktails, or low-ABV twists.
- Celebrate wins: Remember your first perfectly balanced Old Fashioned or your first regular who knew you by name.
- Find your niche: Maybe you’re the Espresso Martini king/queen, or you love events work. Lean into it.
- Keep learning: Courses, competitions, and books keep the passion alive.
- Plan long-term: Whether you want to manage a venue, run a mobile bar, or travel the world, see bartending as a stepping stone, not just a shift job.
note: For me, bartending became sustainable when I stopped chasing perfection every shift and started focusing on small wins — one happy customer, one great cocktail, one laugh with a teammate. That’s what makes it worth it.
Takeaways
- Look after your health with proper sleep, food, hydration, and downtime.
- Manage money carefully — casual shifts mean income can fluctuate.
- Build your network — hospitality is a small world where connections matter.
- Avoid burnout by setting boundaries and balancing life outside work.
- Keep bartending fun and sustainable by experimenting, learning, and celebrating the small wins.
The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve.
I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below.
What are you shaking up these days?
What topics would you like to see covered in future posts?
Let’s connect and continue the conversation!
Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/