The flair movement peaked in the nineties, but even today it hasn’t disappeared. It merely retreated to the fringes, where it is still practiced by a dedicated few.

At its flashiest, flair borrows from the juggling playbook, subbing glass bottles for clubs and balls. Flips, “stalls”, rolls, and midair captures are the staple moves. “Does Jordan really need to stick his tongue out and spread his legs while doing a slam?” asks Tobin Ellis, who helped found the FBA in 1997. “Of course not. It’s just his style. Flair has an impact on morale, energy, and it courts a crowd reaction.”

“It’s not cool to like flair anymore, but I’ve never met a passionate bartender who doesn’t do it,” Ellis adds. “At some point it starts to happen naturally. You see people trying to figure out how to stir four cocktails at once, or hold two or three jiggers in one hand. It becomes a question of efficiency mixed with a little bit of style.”

What is Flair Bartending?

Flair bartending is the practice of bartenders entertaining guests, clientele or audiences with the manipulation of bar tools and liquor bottles in tricky, dazzling ways.

Used occasionally in cocktail bars, the action requires skills commonly associated with jugglers.

Why Should You Learn Flair?

It’s not just a flashy skill; it’s become a hot commodity for venue owners and marketers alike. Whether it’s promoting a liquor product or the grand opening of a bar, flair bartending adds that extra flair to any occasion. Plus, it looks impressive on a bartender’s resume and can lead to more job opportunities.

According to research by the International Bartending Flair Association, flair bartenders rake in 20-25% more in tips compared to their “regular” counterparts. On a busy Friday or Saturday night, a skilled flair bartender can pocket up to $1000 in tips at a cozy bar or club. Not only does flair increase your earning potential, but it also boosts your chances of getting hired quickly.

Bar owners love bartenders who can entertain and captivate their customers, adding that wow factor to any night out. Mastering flair techniques also showcases your self-confidence, a crucial quality for anyone working in a people-oriented industry. So, if you’re looking to stand out in the bartending world and make some serious cash, learning flair is the way to go!

What Flair Options Does LBS Offer?

At Local Bartending School, we provide a comprehensive flair bartending course led by certified instructors. Our programs are hands-on, ensuring you get the practical skills you need to master flair techniques. You can purchase the lessons as an add-on or ala carte, tailor-made to suit your needs. With limited availability, pre-booking is highly recommended to secure your spot and embark on your flair bartending journey with us.

Contact LBS today about our flair bartending options!  (877)879-7958

Financing is Now Available — For a Limited-Time.
Fill Out the Form Below Now!