Father and son behind the bar

As I write this, Scott is flipping the sign on the Factory door to “open”, prepping final flower garnishes, grown in our own garden on Fox Cross. His last Tiki party as an owner is finally here.


I never had a chance to pen a post about our decision to sell Shirt Factory, and while we are overjoyed 99.9% of the time to step away and find balance as a family, moments like this fall into that .1% – the moments we will always look back on with a smile and a small tear.

In one week, Scott will stand behind that bar – his last night as head mixologist, his last night as the one who poured his entire passion into that place, creating over 800 unique and original recipes (I counted – it’s ridiculous). I can’t wrap my head around that final night, so instead, I’ll stay in this moment and stay thankful that we’ve made it to the here and now.

Alix and Scott sipping on Tiki cocktails during a cocktail class in Washington, DC.
Tiki Class in DC, 2014.

In 2014, Scott and I took a Tiki class in Washington DC. That afternoon, Scott’s passion for cocktails was born. He didn’t know how to mix back then, but an opportunity to step outside our comfort zone and try something new started this entire adventure. People might know Scott for his love and knowledge of bourbon, but it’s Tiki that truly is his first love.

I don’t have the words yet – stepping away after 5 years of life at the Factory. Perhaps they will come sometime this week, or maybe well after we lock the door behind us next week. But Scott – I’m so proud of you. Beyond measure, beyond reason. Have fun tonight, put ALL THE FLOWERS on ALL THE DRINKS and know that you’ve made us all so proud. Love you.

#Tikiforever.