Kim Parsley creates portable bars using antique and vintage glasses, barware, and cases. #k5Evening
LYNWOOD, Wash. — A creator from Lynnwood is celebrating cocktail culture in a unique way.
She sources materials from across the Northwest and around the world to create unique vintage travel bars.
“I affectionately call my travel bar 'Happy Travelers,'” says Kim Parsley. “I'm lovingly calling my travel bar 'Happy Travelers.' It's a return to a time when people really enjoyed making cocktails as much as they enjoyed drinking them. I want to,” he said.
She carefully selects antique and vintage glassware, books, and bar tools that fit into a variety of carriers, from camera bags to vanity cases. She took inspiration from popular mid-century travel bars.
“Back in the 50s and 60s, during the 'Mad Men' era, there were suitcases like this. They were made to throw back whisky, whisky, or whiskey in an aluminum cup,” she said.
After a long career in interior design, Parsley believed it was possible to create a travel bar that was both functional and flair while practicing sustainability.
She spends hours scouring local consignment and thrift stores looking for pieces of the puzzle. The Aurora Antique Pavilion in Edmonds is a popular spot for hunting.
“[I love]walking through that thrift store and seeing things that you know were very special at the time,” she said. It will be used again. ”
Each travel bar is based around specific drinks tailored to each customer's tastes. A special tag tells the history of what's inside.
But while Parsley celebrates cocktail culture, her case isn't just designed to carry hard alcohol. She knows that many people love mocktails. Because she is one of them.
“I've enjoyed full-proof cocktails for a long time, but now I enjoy spirit-free cocktails. It's not about how much you can drink and how fast you can drink it,” she says. said. The host or hostess makes cocktails right in front of you, shares the whole experience, and talks about it. ”
No matter what's inside and no matter where they roam, Parsley hopes her Happy Travelers will give people a new reason to toast pieces of the past.
“Give them a new life and tell their story to someone else to enjoy,” she said.
Happy Traveler cases can be ordered online. Parsley will be customized based on special requests.
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