About us
Who We Are
To throw a successful party you need both vision and execution. Our decades of experience in the hospitality industry and beyond gives us both, which allows us to provide a better way to enjoy the most important events of our lives. Because a proper barkeep is more than just a person pouring drinks. They are the lifeblood of your party, putting in the effort to make your event seem effortless.
Our Team
Emily Starr, President
Vision
Emily specializes in the intersections of work and gender, earning her PhD in Sociology from Tulane University in 2019. A former barkeep herself, she interviewed scores of New Orleans bartenders to complete her dissertation, The Rebel Barkeep, which focused how those in this industry have come to identify themselves within and through the unique experience of bar work. She is the president of our 501(c)3, which focuses on helping bartenders who have fallen on hard times.
Nate Usrey, Executive Director
Execution
Nate was lured to New Orleans in 2003 to attend Tulane and attain his BA in English/Political Science/Philosophy, a humanities trifecta jokingly referred to as a "Bartending Degree". He has been behind most any type of bar you can imagine since 2006 and has run events large and small all over the New Orleans area. He is excited to bring the world of craft cocktails directly to people in their homes or wherever a fine drink may be needed.
Featured Talent
Aaron
Vibrant and personable with a sharp wit
Matt
Friendly and understatedly knowledgeable
Michela
Disarmingly charming but not to be trifled with
and many more talented local bartenders!
Testimonials
"My first phone call to Blue Book Barkeeps was answered by Nate. He patiently listened to my request in planning a birthday celebration for my daughter. He always respond to my questions or inquiries involving party supply information in a timely, professional and caring manner. My plans changed several times but he always accommodated my needs.
When he arrived he was open to different set ups made suggestions and alleviated my worries about hosting. He was intuitive when mixing and serving guests while answering questions with a smile and a great demonstration. He served mocktails to my grandchildren with the same professionalism as an adult guest.
His suggestion of libation mixers, (fresh fruit shrubs and juices), classic cocktails and the finishing Praline liquor desert martinis were excellent. I highly recommend Blue Book Barkeeps for any celebration."
- RHONDA B. [ PRIVATE EVENT CLIENT ]
"Blue Book Barkeeps turned what could have been a very stressful event into an absolute delight. While planning a post-wedding brunch for 60 people, figuring out how to have cocktails made and food on the table at the right time and with limited people to help, was making me pretty nervous.
I reached out to BBB upon the suggestion of a friend. In my first conversation with BBB, my worry evaporated. They were so knowledgeable about what needed to be done and gave me great suggestions for what to include in the bar. They were also very flexible. I bought the alcohol and they did all the rest of the shopping for me, taking another task off my list.
And then on the day, their bartender was an absolute superstar. She had the bar all set up and ready to go (with customizable bloody Marys!), took care of everyone and even stayed an extra hour because the guests were having too much fun.
Hiring Blue Book Barkeeps was absolutely the best decision and we're already looking for opportunities to work with them again."
- NICOLE S. [ WEDDING CLIENT ]