Today we’d like to introduce you to Alicia Perry
Hi Alicia, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I have been with Polite Provisions since 2015. At the time of hire I was in graduate school, seeking out a cocktail serving position to help me stay afloat. Upon being hired, and my first week of training I quickly came to realize that this establishment was something much more special than I had initially perceived. Within my first year of working at Polite Provisions, I came to realize that I would be met with the difficult decision to either continue to pursue my career in social work, or diverge into the hospitality world. With determination and ambition I pushed to excel in both avenues for as long as possible. By day I was working with the homeless population overseeing the continuum of their health care and acted as their main resource to address any concrete and emotional needs. By night I was either cocktail serving or bartending. Getting the opportunity to connect with guests in a more light hearted manner, while doing my best to provide them with a unique and memorable experience. With time, I was offered the opportunity to take on the General Manager position at Polite Provisions. The decision to step away from the world of Social Work was still one of the hardest decisions I have had to make. I still yearn for the work based experiences and challenges that presented working with others in need. I now utilize that energy and passion in a differing manner in an effort to fortify and continue the culture of Polite Provisions that I myself fell in love with 6 years ago.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Being a young adult trying to navigate the world let alone your career path, is always bumpy. In reflection, I suppose the big challenge was simply staying on track and remaining focused at times. Working in the hospitality industry, and more specifically in the world of cocktails, I also wanted to ensure I did my best to maintain balance in both my work and personal life. Self care is a major component to this. Working long hours, late nights, and being surrounding with opportunities to indulge in alcohol can easily take a toll on someone if they do not remain self aware and conscious.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am currently the General Manager of both Polite Provisions and Fortunate Son. I have been with Polite Provisions for 6 years, and Fortunate Son is a more recent addition within the past year. In short, I oversee a myriad of items inclusive of: cocktail and menu development, management of a comprehensive team, and day to day business operations. I am most proud of the investments I have made in each of my employees, and the work I have put forth to cultivate a strong and respected working environment. I am not sure that I can fully speak on what sets me apart from others, however, I truly pride myself on being a General Manager that works alongside my employees on a daily basis. I find that I am not above any type of work, and push myself to ensure I have a genuine sense of empathy and understanding for each role in house.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Remain humble, compassionate, and self aware. Working within the hospitality industry can be a very exciting, energizing, creative, and communal experience. Figure out what it is that enables you to be captivated with this industry, and allow yourself to hone in on that. Using it as a force, as a daily reminder to keep you aligned with the work you wish to elicit.
Contact Info:
- Email: alicia@politeprovisions.com
Image Credits
Brogen Jessup
Valerie Durham
