Behind the Bar with Marina Ferreira: Crafting Cocktails, Embracing Challenges, and Finding Joy in Hospitality
Photo by: Megan Jane
Embracing Authenticity and Community in the Journey of Self-Discovery: A Q&A with Marina Ferreira
Introducing Marina Ferreira, the dynamic force behind Botanica Art & Cocktail Bar. With a rich background in mixology and hospitality, Marina’s journey spans from cozy joints to bustling bars. Join us on Wild X Wise as we explore Marina’s unique cocktail curation and the experiences that set her apart.
Q: In what ways do you feel you’re most wise?
A: I've always struggled with the idea that I am wise, or know things. I know I have a wealth of knowledge, but unless I am asked or need that information for a specific reason, I don't remember it's there. Until someone asks me a question about something random, or very niche, and I go on forever about it. Always wondering where that folder in my mind goes when she's not in use. Something I feel recently wise about, and is honestly hilarious to me, is that I am often the one to fix all problems, calm people down, and explain things that should be common sense. Again, I've always seen myself as this silly, light hearted, artistic person who's not totally aware of everything. But these last few years have shown me a lot about myself. It's wild.
Q: What brings out the wild in you?
A: I googled the definition of wild because when I think of it, I think of Shania Twain's music video "Man! I feel like a woman.” First and foremost the cheetah suit, high heels, and sense of freedom to be a woman. Gyration, hair flipping, and the sex appeal. That doesn't totally resonate outward with me at this time in my life. So the definition " living or growing in the natural environment; not domesticated or cultivated." Is much more my "vibe" as the kids say. A huge part of what botanica, and myself are, is trying to look like we're coloring within the lines, but doing it all our own way. From the glitter all over the place, the way I dress, the way I interact with people, it's all meant to be very authentic. I've had the privilege to be able to travel and live in very different places, in which I was never part of the norm, so I created my own "wild.” It lives inside of me, and now pours out of me with everything I do.
Q: Who inspires you with their wild and wise approach to life?
A: The amazing collective of women I've had around me in the last few years has been truly inspiring. From our Chef Nina, to Alex and her Team of badass ladies, to the incredible industry queens I've had the pleasure to meet. However, the crown goes to my best friend Ariana , who went to hell and back with me learning how to run a business and a friendship, while giving each other space to grow into the most badass versions of ourselves we've ever known. She's pushed me to explore the world, myself, and question the status quo. She doesn't believe in living between the lines, she is the true embodiment of wild and wise.
Q: How can aspiring visionaries find the right balance between pushing boundaries and drawing from life's lessons?
A: When I was younger I would pride myself in being able to do a million things in one day. They were always art and socially focused, but not always what made me feel good at the end of the day. Now that I run Botanica and wear many hats, I don't have much time to think, let alone spend my energy on things that don't matter to me. It's natural selection I suppose. But again, it really came down to how I felt after doing something, or spending time with someone. If I felt drained and exhausted, like I needed a nap afterwards, that's going to be a pass next time. If I feel energized, excited, and inspired, that's going to be HELL YEAH for me.
Q: What are your aspirations and vision for the future, considering both your wild creative ideas and the wisdom you've gained?
A: The future currently looks like a disco ball to me. The mirrors are always rotating, I get to see the same things in different perspectives, and it is very very bright. My aspiration for the future is to continue working with the incredible community I have around me, from the hospitality world, to the art scene, and our amazing PR team that truly understands our vision for the future. I just want to focus on bringing communities together, doing things with integrity and good intentions. oh and of course, cover the world in glitter.