That Real Reel. Well this is not a reel, context still holds tremendous value in all aspects of my life, so figured I’d reintroduce myself to those new to this account. I’m Karl. I started my journey in hospitality 20+ years ago. First as a server at chain restaurant, Bennigan’s. I then transitioned to a small quaint city right on Lake Michigan where tourism flourished. I cut my teeth behind the 2 bars in that 1 establishment. We soon opened a new restaurant and I fully ran and oversaw all facets of FOH. By the time I left 2+ years later I was overseeing FOH for both restaurants. I moved to LA in 2004 and landed a job at a world famous hotel in Beverly Hills. It’s right when the craft cocktail movement took flight. I sharpened my skills there, but knew it wasn’t enough so left to work in a Chef driven restaurant. I spent 5 + years as head bartender really focusing on (fresh) ingredients & understanding balanced recipes. A kismet opportunity arose to launch a new restaurant. I spent 3 months, before open, with the Chef & Owner working on it all. During this time I was introduced to “a guy making vodka in a loft” right above our restaurant. That single meeting changed the whole trajectory of my journey. Months after opening the restaurant, I left to become the 1st employee that liquor brand. I humbly & literally did it ALL. Which lead me to pick up a 📷 for social media. It was a creative high I’ve never felt before. A year later I launched Spirit & Spoon as a creative outlet for my own drinks. 4 years ago I decided to focus on this full time. While you’ll see the occasional partnership post on here, the majority of my work is done off screen with recipe development, product / event photography, art direction, consulting & assisting on brand launches and the occasional bar consult. Humbled & Grateful for it all! While I can’t foresee the future, I can guarantee you this : I’ll continue to put value in my work, my relationships, my growth and my word(s). If you made it this far, go get yourself a drink ~ you deserve it. Also, my sincere thanks! 📸 @robieezee