When Event Coordinator Nicole Enders joined Philadelphia Distilling, home of Bluecoat Gin, she followed what felt like a natural fit. Excited about working in a dynamic industry, she was met with a people-first atmosphere that quickly felt like home. 

From floral pop-up bars to Repeal Day celebrations, Nicole’s first year at Philadelphia Distilling was one marked with collaboration and creativity at every turn. Now entering her second year in the role, she continues to embody the consistent and reliable attitude she is known for.  

“Nicole is a talented and dependable titan of our operation, quick to proactively go beyond the call of duty to ensure smooth and successful service. Her positivity and ability to stay grounded make her a welcome addition to any project she’s involved in, and her dedication to this team and our company is worthy of recognition and commendation,” Matt Wagner, General Manager, FOH Operations, said. 

For Nicole, the job isn’t about numbers or logistics but curating the perfect guest experience. “For many guests, their first introduction to Philadelphia Distilling or Bluecoat happens through an event,” she says. “That gives us the opportunity to truly wow them through thoughtful execution, creating a memorable experience that we hope turns into a lifelong relationship with Bluecoat.” 

Hosting events and programs that draw in guests and showcase the craft of multiple teams are the secret to Nicole’s success. “We offer cocktail classes, celebrations from corporate events and birthday parties to full venue weddings: it’s a trust building moment. People can come in, and they have an amazing time. Our staff and our service are stellar. The food is delicious, and the cocktails are amazing. We’re building trust and familiarity,” Nicole noted. 

And in order to ultimately build relationships with consumers, Nicole is known for her ability to activate a strong team, leveraging her internal teammates as well as thoughtfully selecting partners in the community to join forces with, putting thriving together in action.  

One notable example is when Nicole proposed the idea of a pop-up floral bar, Botanicals in Bloom, by Bluecoat.  After months of working with vendors, the Front of House management team, Chef team, Distillers and bartenders to create the perfect program, the event came to life. With live floral installations from local florists, floral themed cocktails, and a DIY bitters station; the event was sold out every single night. “It was just fun to see everybody trust my idea and have it come to fruition.  It was a great success.”  

Working on a small team, Nicole prioritizes being dependable and reliable in her everyday work. “I try to focus on showing up prepared, positive, reliable,” she says, “I think that helps build up the people around me to help me support them.” To Nicole, being known for her consistency is what drives her work with others. “There’s a strong sense of trust and collaboration where none of these things can happen without working together.”  

Working with others is a daily aspect of Nicole’s job, one that has been the most impactful in her time with the company. “People are the key to everything I do. I work with a small team, across all departments, that genuinely cares about the product, the guest experience, and each other.”  

For her teammates the sentiment rings true. “Nicole brings really sweet, excited energy to the distillery,” Theo Loftis, SS Distiller Philadelphia Distilling said. 

From big ideas to everyday interactions, Nicole’s impact is felt in every carefully crafted detail. Her story is a clear example of Thriving Together: where the power of people, partnership, and pride in the product turn first-time visitors into lifelong fans.