A Toast to an Incredible Night: Thank You for Making the 5th Annual Battle of the Babes a Success
The rooftop at Merchant + Trade was buzzing on Sunday, September 28, 2025, as hundreds of guests gathered for an evening of cocktails, community, and celebration at the 5th Annual Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition. The energy was undeniable. Every corner of the space was alive with conversation, music, and laughter, creating a night that honored women in hospitality in the most unforgettable way.
This year’s competition proved once again that Battle of the Babes is more than just an event The mission has always been to create space for women behind the bar to be recognized for their craft, their stories, and their impact on hospitality. On that rooftop, surrounded by sweeping views of Uptown Charlotte, we witnessed exactly that.
A Round of Applause for Our Mixologists
The heart of this competition will always be the women behind the cocktails. Each drink told a story and carried the personality of its creator. Every mixologist poured more than spirits into their glass—they poured their passion, their heritage, and their creativity.
Guests had the opportunity to try all eight competition cocktails, and the diversity of flavors was as impressive as the women themselves. Some drinks leaned floral and delicate, others bold and spirit-forward, but each one showcased a mastery of balance and technique. The audience didn’t just sip; they savored, compared notes with friends, and eagerly discussed their favorites.
For many of the mixologists, this competition was also a platform to share personal journeys. Some honored family legacies, some celebrated resilience, and others highlighted local North Carolina ingredients. Together, their drinks reminded us that cocktails can carry meaning beyond the glass.
Our Judges Brought Experience and Insight
Competitions are only as strong as the panel guiding them, and our judges brought knowledge and expertise to every sip. Industry icons like The Cocktail Bandits and Marcus Hammond elevated the event with thoughtful commentary and fair evaluation. Their presence not only provided credibility but also encouraged every competitor to bring their best.
Hearing their feedback reminded everyone that mixology is an art that thrives on perspective. It was a masterclass in what makes a cocktail memorable—not just flavor, but story, balance, and execution.
The Soundtrack of the Night
Cocktails may have been the stars of the evening, but the DJs set the rhythm. Micki Blendz and Fannie Mae kept the rooftop pulsing with sound that moved seamlessly from high-energy tracks to laid-back beats. Their music carried the evening forward, amplifying the atmosphere and ensuring that the competition felt as much like a celebration as it did a showcase.
The pairing of women behind the bar with women behind the turntables added another layer of artistry to the night. Both DJs curated soundscapes that reminded us music and cocktails share the same purpose—to connect people and create moments that linger.
Spotlight on Our Vendors
The rooftop also hosted incredible vendors that added texture and fun to the experience. Glowgirl offered their signature permanent jewelry, giving guests a chance to leave with keepsakes as meaningful as the cocktails themselves. Golden K Designs brought their Trucker Hat Bar, turning creativity into wearable art with patches and custom flair. Uniquely She brought bold, handmade accessories like waistbeads and totes, offering guests a way to embrace style with cultural and personal significance.
These vendors reminded everyone that hospitality events aren’t only about food and drink—they’re about the lifestyle experiences that surround them. Guests left with not just full bellies and happy hearts but also new ways to carry the spirit of the night with them.
Gratitude to Our Guests
The audience plays as big a role as the competitors. Guests didn’t just attend; they immersed themselves. They sampled, cheered, voted, danced, and made the event a true community celebration. Many traveled from across the Southeast, showing how Battle of the Babes has become more than a Charlotte staple—it’s now a regional draw for cocktail enthusiasts and industry leaders alike.
We know the anticipation is high, and the highlight everyone is waiting for is just around the corner. Soon, we’ll be sharing a feature on this year’s winners and the signature cocktails that captured the judges’ and guests’ hearts. From the stories behind the drinks to the exact flavor notes that made them unforgettable, we can’t wait to dive deeper into what set them apart.
Why This Event Matters for Businesses
For businesses in hospitality and beyond, Battle of the Babes represents more than entertainment—it’s a case study in community engagement. Guests walked away feeling connected to the women behind the bar, to the vendors who shared their craft, and to the brands that supported the evening. By aligning with events like this, businesses signal to their audiences that they care about inclusivity, artistry, and progress in the industry.
This competition creates touchpoints for consumers to not just buy a product but to build a relationship with it. From spirits brands to lifestyle companies, those who participate demonstrate that they see the value of representation and innovation in shaping hospitality’s future.
A Note from HoCo
At Hospitality Coalition (HoCo), our mission is to bring experiences like Battle of the Babes to life while supporting businesses, creators, and communities in hospitality. We believe events like these are proof that hospitality isn’t just about service—it’s about connection, culture, and impact. If your business is looking to create meaningful partnerships or curate an event that resonates with your audience, HoCo is here to make that vision a reality.
Thank You, Again
To every mixologist, judge, DJ, vendor, sponsor, and guest: thank you for making the 5th Annual Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition an evening to remember. The rooftop was filled with passion, artistry, and joy—and none of it would have been possible without you.
Stay tuned as we unveil our winners and their signature cocktails. In the meantime, raise a glass to every woman who continues to shape and inspire the world of hospitality.
