Today we’d like to introduce you to Brigitte Harley.
Brigitte, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I moved to Savannah in 2010 from NYC after practicing law and working in hedge funds for over 14 years. I have always been a follower of the bar and restaurant scene wherever I live/travel. Given Savannah’s focus on tourism and hospitality, I thought for years about what I wanted to do in that space. I was drawn to the edgy vibe of the Starland District and its slated growth. There are so many great businesses and business owners in the area, and many others coming soon. It was a perfect spot for Water Witch.
We opened on January 20, 2020, and unfortunately had to close on March 20, 2020, due to the Covid pandemic. We were closed for three months and reopened in June of that year. It has been a slow process wading through the effects of Covid to society and the economy, but things appear to have normalized. I have such an amazing staff and client base. Water Witch appeals to my creative side and has let me create something that I am extremely proud of and all we have accomplished.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
As mentioned, we were only open 2 months before the pandemic, so until recently have mostly operated in a pandemic/post-pandemic world. Like all businesses, we struggled with slow sales, inventory issues, and labor shortages. While there are still some lingering issues, things seemed to have turned the page.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
We are a tiki bar offering a selection of modern tiki cocktails as well as the classics. If tiki is not your thing, we have a specially selected assortment of craft liquors, and our bartenders will make anything you desire. We make in-house liquors, syrups, juices, shrubs, and tinctures to allow us to create the most fresh and flavorful cocktails. Our bartenders are creative and passionate about cocktails. I love that they listen to a client about what they like and are able to create the perfect cocktail for them.
We do not follow the strict formula for a traditional tiki bar. Our vision is a lighter and more modern version of many of the classics. While we are not for everyone who is looking for the old school tiki bar, we have still been named to numerous lists and been put in the same category as some of the greats. My goal was to have amazing cocktails in a beautiful setting with a relaxed and fun vibe. We have accomplished that.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I have found that surrounding myself with knowledgeable people but also relying on my own abilities has been the key to being successful. While the food and beverage industry was not something I grew up in, my background in business has been the most important aspect of creating Water Witch. I have had good people in my life in the industry who I have relied on for industry-specific advice. Never be shy about asking someone for advice. Most people I have found have been more than willing to offer needed information. A mentor doesn’t necessarily need to be industry specific. Don’t be hesitant to take what you know and apply it to a different industry. Life skills often translate across the board.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.waterwitchtiki.com
- Instagram: waterwitchtiki
- Facebook: Water Witch Tiki
- TikTok: @waterwitchtiki
