Client Case Studies

When former U'luvka client, now lifestyle director at BACARDI Colin Asare-Appiah, co-authored  his book BLACK MIXCELLENCE: A Comprehensive Guide to Black Mixology,  he turned to LSZ COMMUNICATIONS for on the ground support in NYC as he crafted cocktails from the book live and in person behind the bar at Harlem's famed speakeasies, including Sugar Monk, The Honey Well and 67 Orange Street.  The book pays homage to Black and Brown mixologists and their contributions to the spirits industry — contributions that ultimately laid the foundation for so many brands to thrive today.  BLACK MIXCELLENCE shares  mouth-watering cocktail recipes created by Black mixologists, including Colin Asare-Appiah himself who began his career as a bartender, as it turns the spotlight on the history behind the drinks we imbibe and the spirits we enjoy, revealing the stories of some of the industry’s most notable trailblazers — from Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey founder and CEO Fawn Weaver to 19th century mixologist John Dabney’s vital role in giving the Mint Julep its'  refreshing style.

As the BLACK MIXCELLENCE events were timed for Black History Month, LSZ COMMUNICATIONS positioned the Harlem events as a true New York story for NBC - NY LIVE. highlighting the diversity behind the creation of our favorite cocktails then and now. Producer and crew imbibed with Colin as they visited the Harlem speakeasies who revealed remarkable insights into  the history of Black and Brown mixology. The segment drove awareness and trial of the book as it highlighted the cocktails including Colin's signature drink, The Belafonte, on the Harlem speakeasy menus. Sales of the book spiked and traffic surged at the speakeasies, each authentically connected to Harlem and Black History. Key media friends including Yolanda Shoshana, came by to experience the cocktails, build word of mouth and share socially. The speakeasy tastings were standing room only with a crowd reflecting NYC's most creative individuals passionately dedicated to the craft of mixology.

• LSZ COMMUNICATIONS underscored Colin Asare-Appiah's status as an authority in the diverse mixology community with experiential events and valuable TV exposure

• Print media supported as well with extensive features in luxury lifestyle magazines including CAVIAR AFFAIR and NEW YORK LIFESTYLES 

• Yolanda Shoshana, esteemed wine and spirits lifestyle expert, was present to enjoy and share as were the founders of luxury travel and lifestyle site unnamedproject.com as well as representatives of luxury brands including Bulgari scouting future partnerships

• Harlem's history with Black mixology came to life in the NBC-TV NY LIVE segment featuring Colin in the famed speakeasies drawing on the heritage identified in his book, BLACK MIXCELLENCE

• Sugar Monk, The Honey Well and 67 Orange St. all saw a boost in traffic from the exposure and book sales jumped as well helping to build community interest strong enough to support future NYC book signings