Michelle raises the bar with new business

A Shrewsbury woman who has started a new cocktail company is hoping she has found the recipe for success with her passion for customer service and zest for life.

Michelle Docherty is the brains behind ‘Beyond the Bar’, a cocktail delivery business serving her home town.

“I am providing customers with a real treat - carefully crafted cocktails using homemade syrups and fresh juices creating the perfect fusion of flavours for their unique menu of drinks,” said Michelle who launched the venture after completing a business start up course with consultants Good2Great, based in Bridgnorth.

“The cocktails are presented in a delivery box complete with garnishes and directions on how to pour and present and can cater for large parties or just a few people as a perfect gift.

“The Good2Great programme gave me a real focus as well as the tools and confidence to move forward with my idea. I had a fantastic mentor who believed in me and his one to one support has meant that my idea has become a reality and is now flourishing.” 

Michelle works as an admissions and contracts officer for a small independent specialist college and residential care provider and she found the inspiration for her new business during lockdown.

“When we were restricted to small garden gatherings I loved nothing more than bringing my friends and family together and treating them by creating delicious cocktails that had the wow factor. For a business to succeed you need passion and this is mine, and I want to share that.”

The Good2Great Business Programme is funded by Shropshire Council and managed by Telford & Wrekin Council.