It's been said that if you do what you love, you’ll never have to work a day in your life. For Ryan Johnson, owner and operator of Sips Cocktail Catering, mixing the perfect drink for people is ‘getting paid to have fun!’ Putting together the perfect signature cocktail for a bride and groom, a corporate holiday party or a fundraiser is what drives Johnson to do what he does. “Creating a unique drink for guests at a themed party is my favorite part of what I do,” says Johnson. “It never gets old.”
Even after more than a decade, mobile cocktail catering is still considered a newer concept when it comes to planning an event and Johnson has done his best to adapt to the strict permit policies, cost fluctuations and the ever-changing consumer demands. “Mobile bars still have to jump through a lot of hoops to be able to serve alcohol in public places,” explains Johnson. “Every time I think I’ve figured it out, a new protocol comes about.” Every event is different, every wedding unique, every gathering and location has its own regulations when it comes to serving alcohol. “Once everything is in place, the fun can begin!” he adds.
Johnson has been in Bend since he was ten years old and has watched the craft beer and hard liquor industries go through many changes. He’s also seen how difficult it can be for restaurants and bars to survive in the Central Oregon economy. Getting his corporate training at Olive Garden and a stint in fine dining, Johnson preferred catering over anything else and started cocktailing for the masses at small private events, weddings, and large fundraisers.
After the pandemic, Johnson decided to start his own cocktail catering company. With the knowledge and mentorship he had gained, his mission was simple: Bring the bars to the space and mix excellent quality drinks with fresh ingredients for any theme and every type of audience.
Johnson also prides himself on suggesting good, local beer and wines that fit the theme, season and client’s preference. With beautiful venues and landscapes, Central Oregon is considered a ‘destination’ for weddings and events of any size. Though the number of events might fluctuate with the economy, late spring through early fall is generally a busy time for outdoor events.
“I work alongside a close community of vendors who have all worked very hard to get where they are,” Johnson notes. “We all have the same objective – to make these events a success.” The summer season is Johnson’s favorite time of year because he enjoys suggesting cocktails with fresh ingredients like watermelon and pineapple mixed with rum, vodka, gin, and tequila. During the holidays, Johnson recommends whiskey and bourbon cocktails like Old Fashions and hot drinks like Hot Buttered Rum or Spanish Coffees.
Sip’s Tips for Planning the Perfect Event:
• When picking out beer and wine, support local Oregon breweries and wineries and if you’re
serving an IPA, make sure to balance that with a light beer offering as well.
• Select beverages that all your guests will enjoy – everyone likes something different to drink!
• Fresh ingredients, like purees and lime juice are best prepared the morning of the event.
• Always consider a batch cocktail that’s easy to serve so that your guests aren’t waiting in a long line for a drink.
• Always provide a delicious and unique mocktail for those who don’t drink alcohol.
• Every event should have a water and lemonade station and should be in a place that is easily accessible.
• Late night events should include a coffee and hot chocolate bar to keep the party going.
Ryan’s Favorite Recipes
Sips Summer Margaritas
Two ounces 21Seed Cucumber Jalapeno Tequila
1 oz Cointreau
One generous squirt Agave Syrup
Fresh lime juice
Put into an ice filled shaker and mix it up
Pour into a glass with a Tajin rim, garnish with a lime or cucumber wedge
Pear Cinnamon Spritz Mocktail
Pear Puree (crush canned pears)
Cinnamon syrup or simple syrup and crushed cinnamon
Fresh lemon juice
Soda water
Mix ingredients and taste as you go – this refreshing cocktail is great for all seasons!
SipsCocktailCatering.com
“Creating a unique drink for guests at a themed party is my favorite part of what I do."
-- Ryan Johnson, owner Sips Cocktail Catering