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Event Inspiration: A Scandinavian Oasis

This year's Garden of Elyx party at mid-July’s Tales of the Cocktail in New Orleans was as creative as ever (click here to get a look at the 2018 event), a vibrant oasis with its own beauty salon, pool, and cocktails served by the world’s bartending elite (Monica Berg, Leo Robitschek, and Toby Cecchini to name a few).

A handcrafting station inspired by centuries-old Swedish tradition allowed guests to make their own hats, bracelets, and flower crowns. As always, there were plenty of surprises in store including miniature ponies and copper dala horses, eclectic inflatables, and a mirrored Instagram booth. As always, the branding behind this event was top-notch. 

All photos courtesy Phil Hudghton Photography

“Star”-tenders Monica Berg and Leo Robitschek

The beauty salon treated guests like Swedish royalty

The Neroli cocktail. See below for recipe.

The Patchouli cocktail included an eye-catching mini bottle of Elyx vodka, Oloroso Sherry, patchouli cordial, and a champagne topper.

Dala horse vessels held “Jasmine,” a combination of vodka, Lillet Blanc, apricot, jasmine syrup, yuzu, and sage

RECIPE: Neroli Cocktail

Created by Absolut Elyx 

1.5 oz Absolut Elyx
.5 oz Lillet Blanc
.5 oz Fino Sherry
.5 oz Neroli cordial

Glass: Rocks
Garnish: Lemon zest
Method: Stir 

Interested in cocktails? Like to make them?

Consider competing in Catersource 2020's Swizzle competition on the tradeshow floor!

Kathleen Stoehr

Kathleen Stoehr is the Director of Community & Content Strategy for Informa Connect | Catersource and Special Events magazines, including all digital content for both websites and e-newsletter products. She also vets, hires, guides and coordinates all live education at Catersource Conference & Tradeshow, Art of Catering Food, Leading Caterers of America Executive Summit, and bridge content at The Special Event.