When I first started working toward opening my own venue, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I wasn’t particularly handy, I had never run a hospitality business before, and I certainly didn’t have all the skills I’d need to keep a bar and restaurant running.

Fast forward to today, and I’ve picked up more skills than I ever thought possible—some out of necessity, others because, well, if you don’t learn, you don’t survive.

If you had told me years ago that I’d be running a Mexican restaurant and mezcal bar in Bournemouth, I probably wouldn’t have believed you. My journey into hospitality wasn’t exactly planned—it was more of a series of unexpected turns, opportunities, and a bit of blind faith.

Working in hospitality can be physically and mentally exhausting. Long hours, late nights, high-pressure environments—it’s easy to fall into bad habits and let the job consume you. The hospitality industry has a reputation for overindulgence, whether that’s drinking, eating unhealthy food, or sacrificing sleep, and I’ve seen firsthand how it can wear people down.

Hospitality is one of the most challenging industries, but it’s also one of the most rewarding experiences anyone can have. Whether you plan to stay in the industry long-term or move into another career, working in hospitality teaches valuable life and professional skills that can be applied anywhere. It’s an environment that pushes you to adapt, communicate, problem-solve, and build resilience—all while working at an intense pace.

Have you ever walked into a bar, looked at the menu, and thought, How can they justify charging £6 for a pint? If so, you’re not alone. Many people believe they know the “true cost” of a beer or a meal. But the reality is far more complex.