Bold Flavors & Fierce Confidence: Meet Ky Brown of The Waterman
The magic of a great cocktail lies in more than the ingredients—it’s about the person behind the bar, the story they carry, and the energy they bring to every pour. At The Waterman, one of Charlotte’s favorite spots for vibrant cocktails and coastal charm, mixologist Ky Brown embodies that perfect blend of creativity, resilience, and presence. With over a decade of experience in hospitality, Ky is not only making drinks—she’s creating moments.
As one of the competitors in this year’s Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition, Ky is stepping into the spotlight with a cocktail that’s as bold and unforgettable as her journey. We had the chance to dive into her story, her style, and the personal meaning behind the drink she’s bringing to the stage.
From the Service Floor to the Spotlight
Ky has spent 11 years in the hospitality industry, exploring nearly every role along the way. From hosting and barista shifts to thriving in high-energy events, she has lived the true pace of hospitality. Her bartending career began with a love for the industry’s energy and her natural draw to creativity. “Mixology gave me the chance to be artistic with flavors, create memorable experiences for guests, and thrive in fast-paced environments,” she shares.
That combination of artistry and connection is what continues to fuel her passion today. “It’s never just a drink—it’s an interaction, a memory, and sometimes even a turning point in someone’s night.”
A Fun Fact You Might Not Expect
Behind the bold personality and fast-paced bartending skills lies a side of Ky most people wouldn’t guess: she rarely needs an alarm clock. “I naturally wake up when I need to, and I often have dreams that end up coming true,” she says with a smile. This intuition is more than just a quirk—it’s a thread that runs through her life and work. It allows her to trust her instincts, stay grounded, and adapt to the dynamic flow of hospitality.
Crafting Cocktails That Resonate
When asked to describe her cocktail style in three words, Ky doesn’t hesitate: bold, intuitive, unforgettable. Her creations balance vibrant flavors with approachability, ensuring that every guest feels the drink was made just for them. She gravitates toward fresh, seasonal ingredients, herbaceous notes, and unexpected pairings that leave guests intrigued.
Her inspiration doesn’t come from rigid rules—it comes from energy. “I find inspiration in the room, in the story behind the ingredients, and in the connection I get to make with each guest,” she explains. It’s a style that thrives on presence, instinct, and creativity.
The Battle Cocktail: A Toast to Growth
Ky’s cocktail for Battle of the Babes is more than just a recipe—it’s a story. “This cocktail is a celebration of growth and confidence. It’s crafted for women stepping into their 30s—a stage where life really starts to flourish.”
The drink layers bold flavors that reflect resilience and self-discovery, symbolizing the transition from the uncertainty of one’s 20s into the empowerment of the next decade. For Ky, the cocktail is personal. “Every element represents those hardships and triumphs—turning past struggles into something beautiful and enjoyable.”
She hopes that when guests taste it, they feel both proud of their own journeys and excited about what’s to come. “It’s more than just a drink; it’s a toast to resilience and growth.”
Women Behind the Bar: Owning the Space
Ky doesn’t shy away from acknowledging the challenges women face in hospitality. “There’s always been an element of having to prove myself,” she says. From doubters at the bar to navigating safety and respect in fast-paced environments, she has turned obstacles into motivation.
Yet, what stands out most to her is the community of women in hospitality. “Hospitality has been quietly powered by women for as long as it’s existed. It’s empowering to be part of the rebellion that is women dominating in a male-dominated space. The way women look out for each other is inspiring.”
Her role models reflect this sentiment. She credits Morgan, founder of HoCo, for giving her opportunities to compete and showcase her talent multiple times, calling those moments pivotal in her career. She also admires Azure Cassidy, the beverage director at her restaurant, and women-led companies like Two11, who inspire her dream of launching her own mobile bartending business.
Why Her Story Matters for Consumers & Businesses
For consumers, supporting bartenders like Ky is more than enjoying a well-crafted cocktail—it’s about recognizing and uplifting the artistry and labor that goes into every drink. Choosing women-led bars or celebrating women bartenders at competitions is a way to drive meaningful change in hospitality.
For businesses, Ky’s story is a reminder of the importance of representation and creating platforms where talent can thrive. Investing in women through mentorship, leadership opportunities, and creative freedom not only empowers individuals like Ky but also strengthens the industry as a whole.
About HoCo
At HoCo, we believe stories like Ky’s highlight the best of hospitality—resilience, creativity, and connection. That’s why we work with businesses across the industry to bring bold ideas to life, from events to brand reinvention. If you’re ready to reimagine your hospitality venture and give your team the platform they deserve, HoCo is here to guide you every step of the way.
Join Us at the Battle of the Babes
You can catch Ky in action at the 5th Annual Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition on September 28, 2025, at Merchant + Trade. It’s an evening filled with unforgettable cocktails, fierce competition, and the chance to celebrate women like Ky who are changing the face of hospitality.
Your ticket includes: 8 cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres, a swag bag, and a rooftop view that can’t be beat.
