A Q&A WITH KIMIKO MATSUDA ON MWL’S NEW SOCIAL EVENT SERIES
How did the Behind the Rails event series come about? In recent months, some of the most interesting feedback and idea generation we’ve received was around fostering a “social” aspect to the MWL membership. We loved the idea of trying a slightly different model that focused on creating and maintaining community through social events. So, the Behind the Rails series began as an opportunity for members and non-members to enjoy the Library as a social setting rather than through our more traditional table service.
What is a Behind the Rails event? These ticketed events are hosted in the Library in a cocktail hour setting perfectly suited for conversation. It’s a space for members and non-members to come together, to make connections, to build new partnerships and discover opportunities that expand beyond the event. The ticket price includes a drink ticket, a spirits tasting and a lovely spread of hors d’oeuvres. Past events have featured live music or work from local artists.
What is the future of this event series? As we planned our pilot event, it happened to fall in February, so we thought that we could launch the series by celebrating our Black, Indigenous and People Of Color (BIPOC) and BIPOC Ally community. Our long-term vision is to host similar events every other month. The community that we celebrate may change, but the goal will remain the same: bringing members and non-members together in the spirit of community and celebration.
Are there more Behind the Rails events in the works? Our pilot event in February was a big hit, so we hosted another event in April. We are now planning our 3rd cocktail hour, which is scheduled for June 20th. This event is open to both members and non-members. Tickets are available here.
An exclusive tasting education featuring our complete Pappy Van Winkle collection, Cristal champagne and light bites from MWL Executive Chef Rob Kelley
Sold Out
JUNE 13
MANHATTAN COCKTAIL CLASS
Sold Out
JUNE 20
BEHIND THE RAILS
A gathering of BIPOC & LGBTQ+ community leaders, business owners, creatives, and allies Tickets Available Here
An evening hosted by the Bingo Queen Peachy Springs! This charity drag bingo
will be in support of MWL’s charity cocktail program, featuring hand selected
bourbons and hors d’oeuvres. Tickets Coming Soon
JULY 24*
MEZCAL TASTING EVENT
An education and tasting by MWL Spirits Curator and Education Manager Brett
Adams featuring hors d’oeuvres from Executive Chef Robert Kelley Tickets Coming Soon
*this date has been updated from our previous announcement
