Alley Brown: Mixing Passion, Personality, and Purpose
The hospitality industry thrives on personalities that can turn an ordinary night into something unforgettable. For Alley Brown of Omni, bartending is more than pouring drinks—it’s storytelling, connection, and artistry wrapped into a single glass. As she prepares to step behind the bar for this year’s Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition, Alley is bringing with her not just years of experience, but also a perspective shaped by resilience, creativity, and an unwavering love for hospitality.
From Esthetics to Spirits
Alley’s journey into bartending didn’t follow a straight path. Originally a full-time esthetician, she moved to Charlotte in 2019 seeking new opportunities. Like many navigating a new city, Alley faced financial challenges while building clientele. She had experience as a cocktail waitress but didn’t find it fulfilling. When a friend opened a club, Alley half-jokingly asked to be put behind the bar—and that simple moment changed the course of her career.
Six years later, she’s more than just a bartender; she’s a mixologist who treats her craft as an extension of her creativity and her personality. Alley describes her cocktail style in three words: personable, vibrational, and timeless—a perfect reflection of her approach to both work and life.
Unexpected Layers
Behind every good bartender is a story people don’t see. For Alley, one surprising detail is her academic background. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting with a minor in Marketing. Guests are often caught off guard when she shares that fact while sliding a perfectly balanced drink across the bar. It’s a reminder that the hospitality industry is filled with multi-dimensional people whose talents extend far beyond the bar top.
Crafting with Mood in Mind
For Alley, cocktail creation begins with a conversation. She doesn’t just build drinks; she builds experiences. Learning about a guest’s day, their mood, or even their evening plans often guides her flavor choices. Citrus-forward notes, refreshing profiles, and aromatic touches form her foundation, but inspiration comes from tapping into the energy of the moment.
This approach makes her drinks not only memorable but deeply personal. A cocktail, in Alley’s world, is less about the menu and more about the connection between bartender and guest.
The Competition Cocktail
At the Battle of the Babes, Alley is unveiling a cocktail she describes as elegant, tasty, and simple—a creation that balances strength and delicacy. Her vision was to craft something that captures the duality of “His & Hers”: dainty but strong, manly yet feminine. Every sip takes you on a journey, revealing layers that reflect Alley’s philosophy of balance and nuance.
More than just flavors, this cocktail carries symbolism. Alley wanted to create something that embodies her story—an exploration of contrasts and harmony, reflective of both her journey as a woman in hospitality and the resilience she’s built along the way.
Women, Work, and Hospitality
When asked what she loves most about being a woman in hospitality, Alley doesn’t hesitate: the people. From beer to wine to cocktails with her signature touch, she finds joy in delivering authentic satisfaction to her guests. Her personality shines through every interaction, and it’s that authenticity that makes her work feel so natural.
But Alley is candid about the challenges, too. She’s faced racial and social microaggressions, experiences that can weigh heavily in an industry known for its intensity. Yet she’s also quick to celebrate her breakthroughs—especially the financial stability and independence she’s achieved through her work. Bartending has given her the ability to invest in herself both personally and professionally, a reality she doesn’t take for granted.
Inspiration Close to Home
For Alley, inspiration often comes from her grandmother, who was an exceptional cook. From her, Alley learned the importance of flavors and textures, and the art of crafting something that brings joy to others. That early influence gave her a foundation for creativity that now shines through in her cocktails. Today, her artistry is expressed through spirits, but the lessons are the same: food and drink have the power to connect, comfort, and celebrate.
Looking Ahead
This year’s competition is an opportunity for Alley to step further into the spotlight. She’s looking forward to the exposure, the connections, and the chance to showcase herself as a mixologist on a bigger stage. For guests, she promises liveliness, a huge personality, and plenty of laughter—a reminder that hospitality is as much about energy as it is about drinks.
And in the long run, Alley has even bigger dreams. Her goal is to open her own bar, aptly named “Good Times.” She envisions planting this dream in the D.C. area, though Charlotte may also play a role in its future. Until then, she continues to hone her craft, bringing joy and authenticity to every interaction at Omni.
Supporting bartenders like Alley is about more than enjoying a great cocktail. It’s about recognizing the artistry, effort, and dedication that goes into every drink. Choosing to attend events like Battle of the Babes or frequenting bars with women at the helm helps push the industry toward inclusivity and balance.
Alley’s story underscores the importance of fostering spaces where creativity and individuality can flourish. Guests don’t just want cocktails; they want experiences. By empowering mixologists to bring their personalities into their craft, bars and restaurants can create stronger connections with their clientele and encourage lasting loyalty.
HoCo’s Role in Building Hospitality Futures
At HoCo, we understand the power of people like Alley who bring passion and creativity into hospitality. Our mission is to support businesses in building environments where talent can thrive—through strategic consulting, brand growth, and impactful events. From strengthening operations to curating unforgettable experiences, HoCo is here to help the hospitality industry evolve.
The Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition
The best way to experience Alley’s artistry is to see her in action. Don’t miss the 5th Annual Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition, happening September 28, 2025, at Merchant + Trade in Uptown Charlotte. With panoramic views, fierce competition, and unforgettable drinks, this event is a celebration of women in hospitality you’ll want to be part of.
Your entry includes eight cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres, a swag bag, and an evening of unmatched entertainment and energy.
