Meet Noemy Santos-Turpin | Bartender

We had the good fortune of connecting with Noemy Santos-Turpin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Noemy, what role has risk played in your life or career?
As a bartender, I approach risk with a mixture of caution and curiosity. While it’s important to consider potential consequences, I also recognize that taking calculated risks can lead to exciting discoveries and opportunities for growth. Throughout my career, I’ve learned that being open to trying new techniques, experimenting with flavors, and stepping outside of my comfort zone has been instrumental in refining my craft and keeping things fresh behind the bar. By embracing risk-taking in moderation, I’ve been able to stay adaptable, stay ahead of trends, and continually elevate the customer experience.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a Mexican bartender, I bring a rich cultural heritage and a unique perspective to the world of mixology. What sets me apart from others is my ability to infuse traditional flavors and ingredients from my culture into innovative cocktails, creating a fusion of old and new that resonates with a diverse range of customers.

My journey to becoming a bartender has been filled with challenges, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. I’ve faced obstacles such as language barriers, cultural stereotypes, and lack of representation in the industry. However, I’ve overcome these challenges by embracing my identity, seeking out opportunities for education and advancement, and staying true to my roots.

Throughout my career, I’ve learned valuable lessons about resilience, perseverance, and the importance of staying true to yourself . By embracing my cultural heritage and incorporating it into my craft, I’ve been able to carve out a niche for myself in the industry and inspire others to do the same.

What I want the world to know about me is that I’m passionate about celebrating diversity and inclusion in the bartending community. My story is one of resilience, determination, and pride, and I hope to inspire others to embrace their cultural identities and pursue their passions unapologetically.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For a week-long trip with my best friend, I’d want to show them the best of what the area has to offer. Here’s a little itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival and Welcome Dinner
– Welcome them with a delicious dinner Mesu is a Mexican and Asian fusion restaurant, where we can enjoy authentic flavors and catch up on each other’s lives.

Day 2: Exploring the City
– Start the day with brunch at Sorelle where we can fuel up for a day of exploring.
– Take a walking tour around Downtown Charleston’s vibrant neighborhoods, checking out street art, historic landmarks, and local shops along the way.
– Visit a few of my favorite cocktail bars like Dalilas , Proof , The palmetto Hotel , Frannie and the Fox , sampling signature drinks and soaking in the lively atmosphere.
– Wrap up the evening with dinner at a cozy bistro, where we can unwind and share stories from our day.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventure
– Head out to Folly Beach
– Stop for a picnic lunch surrounded by nature of River front park in Park Circle enjoying the fresh air and breathtaking views.
– Return to the city in the evening and treat ourselves to a well-deserved dinner at Coterie, savoring locally sourced ingredients in every bite.

Day 4: Cultural Immersion
– Spend the morning exploring The International African American Museum and Aquarium
– Enjoy lunch at Meeting and the Market , Then walk around and shop local artists work
Day 5: Relaxation and Indulgence
– Take a leisurely morning at Sullivans Island , soaking up the sun and enjoying the beauty of nature.
– Treat ourselves to a spa day, indulging in massages, facials, and other pampering treatments.
– Enjoy a decadent dinner at a fine dining restaurant, where we can indulge in gourmet cuisine and toast to our friendship.

Day 6: Adventure
Spend your morning exploring Cypress Gardens where the movie THE NOTEBOOK was filmed
– Refuel at Evo Park Circle swapping stories and reliving our adrenaline-fueled experiences.
– Spend the evening at Holly City brewery sampling craft beers , enjoying the laid-back atmosphere and chatting with fellow beer enthusiasts.

Day 7: Farewell Brunch and Departure
– Bid farewell to my best friend with a delicious brunch at Blind Tiger , reminiscing about our unforgettable week together.
– Exchange hugs and promises to stay in touch as they head off to the airport, leaving with cherished memories of our time together in the area.

Overall, I’d want to show my best friend a diverse range of experiences, from culinary delights to outdoor adventures to cultural immersion, ensuring that they leave with a deep appreciation for the area and unforgettable memories of our time together.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my husband. His unwavering support, love, and encouragement have been instrumental in my journey and successes. From believing in my dreams to being my rock during challenging times, he has always been by my side, offering guidance and encouragement every step of the way. His belief in me has given me the confidence to pursue my goals and chase my passions fearlessly. I’m incredibly grateful for his presence in my life and the profound impact he has had on my personal and professional growth.

Instagram: @mimysantos23

Facebook: Mimy Santos Turpin