“I had a ton of ideas and decided it would be best to start implementing them instead of wondering “what if”.”
Starting her own etsy shop, founding event studio REVELRY responsible for one of the coolest pop-events in Austin, The Swoon Event, Amberly sold out her very first Whiskey 101 class on Verlocal. Despite the pressures, she had such a blast and that fulfillment from providing that experience keeps her going! Read more to find out what keeps Amberly’s creative juices churning!
- Hi Amberly, can you introduce yourself and tell us about the classes that you offer through Verlocal?
Hi! I’m Amberly, and I own REVELRY, a creative event studio based in Austin, Texas. I host a variety of gatherings from socials and pop-up markets like The Swoon Event to dinner parties and workshops. My favorite workshops to host on Verlocal are cocktail workshops (from seasonal recipes to Whiskey 101).
- When did you first become interested/passionate in arts and crafts?
I have always been artistic, but I pushed it all aside as I became more athletic in high school. After college, I began to explore making hair accessories. That led to an Etsy shop, and it snowballed from there!
- Where does your inspiration come from? What made you want to pursue your passion and become a host?
My inspiration comes from old books that I collect, people that I interact with, social media, the great outdoors, my own personal interests, the list goes on. I am very open to finding inspiration from anywhere at anytime, so that I am keeping the content fresh and unique.
While working a full-time corporate job, I realized that I needed an outlet for my creativity. I explored lots of different paths but always fell back into event planning and interacting with local makers. I had a ton of ideas and decided it would be best to start implementing them instead of wondering “what if”.
- How would you describe the link between your classes and the community around you?
All of the events I host, including my workshops, have a focus on small and/or local businesses. I truly want to capture the spirit of Austin, and make each workshop feel like a gathering with friends.
- How long have you been living in Austin? What would you recommend to someone who just moved to this city?
I have been living in Austin for almost two years now, and I am so happy to be here! To the new Austinites, I would recommend that you open your mind to trying new things. There are so many different activities to do here, so if you pace yourself, you will never get bored.
- Tell us about your favorite moment/ biggest achievement since you started teaching your classes.
My favorite moment since becoming a Verlocal host was seeing my first Whiskey 101 class come together. It sold out, so there was some pressure there, but it was a blast! We all laughed and once it was all over, I was happy to see that I created an experience that others enjoyed. That is why I do what I do.
- What is your favorite craft project & story behind it?
As you can see, I am a big cocktail fan. I enjoy trying out new recipes and exploring with honing my skills with bartender friends. Cocktails appeal to me because they can be different every time and most importantly, they bring people together.
- What are your goals for the future?
My goals for the future include expanding my event business, including the workshops. I am currently working on bringing my cocktail workshops to corporate and large social events.
- Any recommendations to someone who wants to pursue their passion for a career?
It sounds cheesy, but just do it. There will never be a perfect time to jump in. I took small steps and still keep a full-time job You can make adjustments along the way and continue to grow.
- What does Verlocal mean to you?
To me, Verlocal is a way for people can get out of their comfort zones and learn more about themselves.
Share your cocktail inspirations or recipes! Or, ask any questions you have for Amberly. Comment below before January 5, 2017 and one lucky commenter will receive a FREE class taught by Amberly and meet him in person!
Share your thoughts now.
