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By Helen Geib, Hoover Hull Turner LLP
The return of in-person events gives rise to mingled feelings of anticipation and anxiety. Frequent questions include: a) Will the program be interesting? b) Will I know anyone there? c) Do my resort clothes still fit? The answers trend positive but vary by event. For IndyBar Bench Bar-specific answers, jump to the end.
There is, however, one question with a definite, universally applicable and unvarying answer. You can stop worrying about what to order at the open bar. Here are seven reasons tonic and lime is the unrivaled work event beverage.
1. Making small talk is thirsty work. Tonic is a refreshing drink of carbonated water with a slightly sweet, slightly bitter flavor best enjoyed with a lime garnish. A tall glass on ice will keep you hydrated and your vocal cords feeling good.
2. Just standing around is awkward. Unless you’re a supremely confident extrovert, and maybe even if you are, you need something to do with your hands. Stand with poise and ease with a glass of tonic in hand.
3. Not all event open bars are created equal in the areas of selection and quality. Follow my advice and order with confidence. Even the worst bartender can’t make a bad one.
4. Said straight up, tonic is 0% alcohol. Depending on your physiology, condition and beverage of choice, your limit at a work event is somewhere between zero and two alcoholic drinks. Beyond that you need a non-inebriating option.
5. I can hear the objection now: Wouldn’t a glass of water or my favorite soft drink serve just as well? I ask in reply: Is that festive? Don’t fall back on the office refrigerator lineup. Put yourself in a party mood with something you don’t have every day.
6. Until you reach your limit you can enjoy the social lubricant with a gin and tonic made to your preferred strength. The G&T is that rare mixed drink you can order strong or weak without compromising flavor. Nurse your drink all evening with tonic only refills.
7. Tonic and lime conveys self-possessed sophistication. Do not, under any circumstances, forget the lime.
Bench Bar Conference answers:
a.) Yes! Check out the full lineup of general interest panels, practice-focused presentations and networking programs at the IndyBar event page.
b.) You’ll probably be surprised by how many people you do know, but more importantly, Bench Bar is a can’t-miss opportunity to renew old connections AND make new ones.
c.) I couldn’t say, but know that you’re not alone in asking. The Quarantine 15 is real.
I hope to see you at Bench Bar! Sign up at indybar.org/benchbar.•
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