1. Introduction
Welcome to The Beverage Academy!
These Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) apply to your use of the website www.thebeverageacademy.co.uk (the “Site”) and to the services provided by The Beverage Academy Ltd, a company registered in England and Wales with company number 16393645 and registered office at 482 Lady Margaret Rd, Southall, Middlesex, United Kingdom, UB1 2NW (“we”, “us”, or “our”). Our trading name is The Beverage Academy.
These Terms govern all interactions with our Site and services, whether you are:
- a client seeking to book a cocktail masterclass or bartender for hire (the “Client”), or
- a service provider (such as a freelance bartender or mixologist) contracted to provide services through us (the “Service Provider”).
By accessing or using our Site and/or services, you confirm that you accept and agree to comply with these Terms. If you do not agree with these Terms, you must not use our services. Please read these Terms carefully before making a booking, submitting a quote request, or agreeing to provide services through our platform.
2. Other Applicable Terms
These Terms and Conditions refer to the following additional terms, which also apply to your use of our services and website:
- Privacy Policy – which sets out the terms on which we process any personal data we collect from you, or that you provide to us. This will include how we store and protect your data, and your rights under applicable data protection laws.
- Cookie Policy – which sets out information about the cookies used on our website, including what types we use and how you can manage your preferences.
By using The Beverage Academy, you agree to comply with all applicable terms.
3. About Us
The Beverage Academy Ltd (trading as “The Beverage Academy”) is a company registered in England and Wales under company number 16393645, with its registered office at 482 Lady Margaret Rd, Southall, Middlesex, United Kingdom, UB1 2NW. We specialise in delivering premium cocktail experiences through immersive masterclasses and professional bartender hire for private and corporate events. Our mission is to make every celebration truly unforgettable by elevating the art of cocktail making and creating memorable, interactive moments for our clients and their guests. If you have any questions about these Terms or our services, you can contact us at [email protected]
4. Disclaimer
The Beverage Academy Ltd acts as an administrative intermediary, connecting clients with independent third-party service providers, such as freelance bartenders and cocktail specialists, for the purpose of delivering cocktail-related services at private and corporate events. We do not directly provide bartending or hospitality services ourselves. All services arranged through our platform are delivered by independent contractors who are not employees, agents, or representatives of The Beverage Academy Ltd. As such, we are not responsible or liable for their actions, omissions, performance, or conduct at any time.
Our role is limited to managing the administrative process involved in coordinating services, including:
- Handling quote requests and bookings,
- Collecting and sharing relevant event details,
- Communicating between clients and service providers.
Any contract for the provision of services exists directly between the client and the service provider. If a client has a complaint, issue, or claim regarding the performance or conduct of a service provider, it should be addressed directly with that individual. While we may, at our discretion, assist in facilitating communication or resolving disputes between clients and service providers, we offer no guarantee of resolution and accept no liability for the outcome. By using our services, you acknowledge and agree to the above limitations and accept that The Beverage Academy Ltd is not responsible for the delivery or outcome of services performed by third parties.
5. The Services Available Through the Platform
The Beverage Academy Ltd, trading as “The Beverage Academy”, provides administrative coordination and facilitation services in connection with cocktail-related event experiences delivered by independent third-party service providers. These services are accessible via our website and booking platform and are categorised into two principal service types: Inclusive Packages and Service Packages.
Inclusive Packages are structured event offerings designed to deliver a comprehensive cocktail-making experience. Each Inclusive Package includes the attendance of a professional bartender for a period of two (2) hours, the provision of all essential cocktail-making tools and equipment, and all necessary ingredients, including mixers, garnishes, and other non-alcoholic components. Alcohol is also provided as a complimentary and non-commercial element of the experience. In addition, we provide appropriate glassware and ice for use during the session. Clients may elect, at the time of submitting a quote request, whether they wish each guest to prepare three (3) or four (4) cocktails as part of the experience. Inclusive Packages include, but are not limited to, Cocktail Masterclasses and One Rule Spirit Experiences, the latter being sessions themed around a single base spirit as selected by the client. These packages are typically suitable for private celebrations, team-building exercises, and other similar events and are delivered in an interactive and engaging format by a service provider contracted through our platform.
Service Packages offer a flexible alternative wherein the client retains responsibility for supplying core components of the experience. Each Service Package includes the attendance of a professional bartender for a period of two (2) hours, as well as the provision of bartending tools and equipment. The Beverage Academy will issue a tailored shopping list based on the selected menu, enabling the client to procure the appropriate ingredients in advance of the event. The client remains solely responsible for the provision of all alcoholic and non-alcoholic ingredients, glassware, and ice. Service Packages include, but are not limited to, Bartender Hire and Themed or Festive Cocktail Packages. Optional add-ons are available for an additional fee, including glassware hire and extended service time beyond the initial two (2) hours. These packages are well suited for more informal private functions or corporate events where the client prefers a more hands-on role in organising supplies.
For all service types, service providers require access to the venue a minimum of thirty (30) minutes prior to the scheduled commencement of the booking in order to complete setup and preparation. An additional thirty (30) minutes is required following the conclusion of the event for breakdown and pack-down. This time allocation shall not be deducted from the client’s core service duration and is provided without additional charge. It is the responsibility of the client to ensure that sufficient access and timing arrangements are in place to accommodate this requirement.
The Beverage Academy’s role in the provision of the above services is strictly limited to administrative coordination. This includes, but is not limited to, the receipt and processing of quote requests, the collection and communication of relevant event details, the matching of service providers to client requirements, the confirmation of bookings, and the facilitation of customer support prior to the scheduled event date. All services are subject to availability, location constraints, and final confirmation by The Beverage Academy. We reserve the right to amend, suspend, or discontinue any service at our sole discretion and without prior notice.
6. Use of the Site and Licence
You are granted a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable, and revocable licence to access and use the website located at www.thebeverageacademy.co.uk solely for lawful purposes related to viewing our services, submitting enquiries, and making bookings. All content and materials on the Site, including text, images, logos, and code, are the intellectual property of The Beverage Academy Ltd or its licensors. You must not reproduce, distribute, modify, or use any content for commercial purposes without our prior written consent. You agree not to misuse the Site, interfere with its security or functionality, or attempt to gain unauthorised access to any part of it. We reserve the right to suspend or terminate access without notice if misuse is suspected.
7. Changes to These Terms and Updates to the Site
We reserve the right to amend these Terms at any time. Any changes will take effect immediately upon publication on our website unless otherwise stated. Your continued use of the Site or our services following the posting of updated Terms constitutes your acceptance of those changes. We may also update, modify, suspend, or withdraw any part of the Site or the services described on it, either temporarily or permanently, without prior notice. While we endeavour to ensure that all content on the Site is accurate and up to date, we make no representations, warranties, or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the information is complete, accurate, or current. It is your responsibility to review these Terms periodically to ensure you are aware of any changes.
8. Pricing and Payment
All pricing for services arranged through The Beverage Academy is provided by way of a formal written quotation issued following submission of a booking enquiry. Prices are calculated based on the details supplied by the client, including but not limited to event type, location, number of guests, selected service package, and any optional extras. All quotations are subject to availability and are valid for seven (7) days. To secure a booking, a non-refundable deposit of £20 is required. This deposit will be deducted from the total balance due. The remaining balance must be paid in full no later than ten (10) calendar days prior to the scheduled event date. In the event that full payment is not received by this deadline, The Beverage Academy reserves the right, acting on behalf of the service provider, to cancel the booking without further notice. In such circumstances, the deposit will be retained and no further liability shall arise. Payment shall be made via Stripe, our third-party payment provider. All payments must be made in Pound Sterling (GBP). The Beverage Academy Ltd is not currently VAT-registered, and no VAT shall be applied to quoted or invoiced amounts unless and until this status changes. Last-minute bookings (defined as bookings requested within ten (10) calendar days of the event date) are subject to availability and must be arranged by direct email communication. If accepted, such bookings must be paid in full at the time of confirmation in order to be secured. Prices include only the services and items expressly stated in the quotation. Any subsequent changes requested by the client, including additions to service time, hire of additional equipment, or other amendments, may result in further charges, which shall be confirmed in writing prior to implementation. The Beverage Academy reserves the right to amend its pricing structure at any time. Such changes shall not affect existing bookings that have already been confirmed and paid in full or secured with a deposit, unless a material change to the booking is initiated by the client.
9. Booking Process and Communication of Booking Details
Clients may initiate a booking with The Beverage Academy by submitting an online quote request form via our website, by contacting us directly via email, or by telephone. Upon receipt of an enquiry, we will assess availability, clarify requirements if necessary, and issue a formal quotation based on the information provided. A booking shall not be deemed confirmed until the client has received written confirmation from The Beverage Academy and has paid the required deposit or, in the case of last-minute bookings, the full balance. Written confirmation will be sent via email and shall set out the agreed service details, including the event date, service package, selected options, location, timing, and any other relevant arrangements. It is the responsibility of the client to ensure that all information provided during the enquiry and booking process is accurate and complete. Any changes or discrepancies must be communicated to us as soon as possible in writing. The Beverage Academy shall not be liable for any errors or omissions arising from inaccurate or incomplete information provided by the client. All further correspondence relating to the booking, including reminders, payment links, and logistical updates, shall be communicated via email unless otherwise agreed.
10. Venue Location and Booking Amendments
The Beverage Academy may accept a booking before the full venue address has been confirmed. In such cases, the client must provide an approximate location (such as the nearest town, postcode sector, or area) at the time of enquiry or booking. Once the exact venue is confirmed, the client must notify us without delay. If the final address falls significantly outside the area initially provided (for example, more than ten (10) miles away), we reserve the right to adjust the quoted price to reflect any additional travel, time, or logistical costs. Should the client wish to amend the details of a confirmed booking (including the date, time, location, duration, number of guests, or package type) we ask that they contact us as early as possible by phone or email. While we will always aim to accommodate reasonable changes, this may not always be possible. Any amendments may be subject to updated pricing, availability, and additional administrative charges, especially where reassignment of a service provider is required. If changes cannot be accommodated, the booking will remain in place under the original confirmed terms unless cancelled in accordance with our cancellation policy.
11. Access to Venue and Set-Up/Clear-Away Time
Service providers require uninterrupted access to the venue no less than thirty (30) minutes prior to the scheduled start time to allow for unloading and set-up, and an additional thirty (30) minutes following the conclusion of the event for pack-down and departure. These set-up and clear-away periods are not charged and are not included within the client’s booked service duration, provided that access is reasonable and as agreed in advance.
It is the client’s sole responsibility to ensure that suitable access and logistical arrangements are in place. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Providing a legal parking space or loading area for the service provider’s vehicle (standard-size car), within no more than 25 metres of the venue entrance or access point;
- Where no free parking is available nearby, ensuring that any required parking permits, passes, or permissions are arranged in advance and communicated to The Beverage Academy prior to the event;
- Notifying us in advance of any logistical access challenges, including multiple flights of stairs, absence of a lift, long walking distances (i.e. more than 25 metres from vehicle to set-up area), or time-restricted loading access.
Service providers will be carrying a range of items including tools, equipment, ingredients, and glassware. As such, proximity to the set-up area is critical to ensure timely and safe delivery of services. Where access is not suitable or where the client fails to notify us of material access restrictions, any delays incurred may be deducted from the booked service time. Alternatively, The Beverage Academy reserves the right to apply a surcharge or adjust the service schedule at its sole discretion. We strongly advise that clients confirm venue access and logistical arrangements with us at least five (5) calendar days prior to the event date. The Beverage Academy shall not be held liable for any loss of service time or additional costs arising from inadequate venue access or failure to disclose access limitations in a timely manner.
12. Cocktail Choices and Menu Administration
For Cocktail Masterclass bookings, clients are required to select their preferred cocktails from the menu published on our website at the time of completing the booking form. Clients will also be required to indicate whether they wish for each guest to prepare three (3) or four (4) cocktails during the session. These choices will be used to allocate ingredients and finalise service details.
For One Rule Spirit bookings, clients must select their preferred base spirit at the time of booking. Upon receipt of this selection, The Beverage Academy will provide a tailored cocktail menu corresponding to the chosen spirit. Clients may then select their preferred cocktails and indicate the number of drinks per guest (three or four), with final selections to be confirmed no later than ten (10) calendar days prior to the event date. These selections may be communicated via telephone or email, however, for the avoidance of doubt, all such changes or confirmations must be acknowledged and confirmed by us in writing via email.
For Bartender Hire and Festive & Themed Cocktail Parties, clients are required to select their preferred cocktail menu from the options provided by The Beverage Academy. Menus are tailored based on the nature of the event and the season. Festive & Themed Cocktail selections may be curated in response to the client’s event style or preferences. A shopping list will be provided based on the confirmed menu, calculated to cover approximately four (4) cocktails per guest, with additional quantities included to account for reasonable overage. It is the client’s responsibility to purchase and provide all listed ingredients in full, along with any required garnishes, mixers, and ice. Requests for specific or premium glassware must be made in advance and may incur additional charges. Any such costs will be communicated to the client for approval prior to confirmation.
No further changes to cocktail selections or quantities will be accepted after the ten-day deadline. If no confirmation is received by that date, The Beverage Academy reserves the right to finalise the menu on the client’s behalf without further liability. If a client requests premium ingredients, rare spirits, or specialised glassware that is not ordinarily included within the selected package, such requests may incur additional charges. Any such costs will be communicated to the client in writing for prior approval. No premium items shall be procured or supplied without the client’s express consent to the associated charges. It is the client’s sole responsibility to inform The Beverage Academy of any allergies, intolerances, or dietary restrictions affecting themselves or their guests, no later than ten (10) calendar days prior to the event. All allergen information must be submitted in writing. The Beverage Academy accepts no liability for allergic reactions or adverse effects resulting from ingredients where the client has failed to provide appropriate notice.
13. Licensing and Legal Compliance
The Beverage Academy Ltd does not sell alcohol. Where alcohol is provided as part of a Cocktail Masterclass or One Rule Spirit experience, it is offered on a complimentary basis only, as part of a broader service. For all events, it is the client’s sole responsibility to ensure that the venue and event are compliant with all applicable licensing laws, including (where required) obtaining a Temporary Event Notice (TEN). The Beverage Academy does not apply for or secure TENs on behalf of clients under any circumstances. No refund or liability shall arise if the client fails to obtain the necessary permissions and the service provider is unable to proceed with the event. Clients must ensure that alcohol is not served to anyone under the legal drinking age of eighteen (18). All service providers operate a Challenge 25 policy and may request valid photo ID before serving alcohol. The Beverage Academy accepts no liability for any breach of licensing laws by the client, their guests, or the venue.
14. Client Responsibilities: Safety, Behaviour, Allergies
The client is responsible for ensuring a safe and appropriate environment for the service, including adequate space, lighting, access to water and electricity, and general event safety. The client must maintain respectful and safe behaviour throughout the event. The service provider reserves the right to suspend or terminate the service immediately if any guest behaves in a threatening, abusive, intoxicated or unsafe manner. No refunds will be issued in such cases. Allergen and dietary information for all guests must be provided in writing no later than ten (10) calendar days before the event. While reasonable care is taken, traces of allergens may still be present, and all services are undertaken at the client’s and guests’ own risk. The Beverage Academy accepts no liability for reactions caused by undisclosed or unknown allergies. Guests must follow all safety instructions, and alcohol must not be served to or consumed by minors under any circumstances. The client is fully responsible for guest conduct and compliance with all relevant laws during the event.
15. Cancellations
All bookings require a £20 deposit to secure the date and services. This deposit is non-refundable in the event of cancellation by the client, regardless of the notice period. If the client cancels a confirmed booking more than ten (10) calendar days prior to the scheduled event date, any sums paid beyond the deposit shall be refunded in full. Cancellations made within ten (10) calendar days of the event are strictly non-refundable. However, The Beverage Academy may, at its sole discretion, offer to reschedule the booking, subject to availability. Rescheduling is not guaranteed and may incur additional charges depending on the circumstances. All cancellation or rescheduling requests must be submitted via email or telephone, using the contact details listed on our website. A cancellation will not be considered effective unless and until it has been acknowledged and confirmed by The Beverage Academy in writing. In the event that The Beverage Academy or the assigned service provider cancels the booking due to unforeseen circumstances or force majeure, and a suitable alternative date or replacement cannot be offered, all sums paid by the client, including the £20 deposit, shall be refunded in full.
16. Service Providers and Non-Solicitation
All services arranged through The Beverage Academy are delivered by independent third-party service providers who are not employees, agents, or representatives of The Beverage Academy Ltd. We act solely as an intermediary for the coordination and booking of these services.
The identity and contact details of the assigned service provider will be shared with the client closer to the event date for planning and logistical purposes. The Beverage Academy reserves the right to change the assigned service provider at any time due to operational requirements, including (but not limited to) illness, scheduling changes, or other unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, we will make reasonable efforts to assign a suitable alternative with equivalent experience and skill.
By proceeding with a booking, the client agrees not to directly approach, solicit, engage, or contract with any service provider introduced by The Beverage Academy for the provision of similar or related services outside the scope of their booking.
This non-solicitation obligation applies for a period of eight (8) months from the date of the client’s most recent event involving that service provider.
In the event of a breach of this clause, no refund shall be issued, and The Beverage Academy reserves the right to cancel current or future bookings.
17. Intellectual Property Rights
All content, branding, materials, and intellectual property made available by or on behalf of The Beverage Academy Ltd, including but not limited to text, logos, images, graphics, menus, event materials, instructional content, and website design, are owned by or licensed to The Beverage Academy Ltd and are protected by applicable copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws.
No part of our materials or content may be copied, reproduced, distributed, modified, published, or used for any commercial purpose without our prior written consent.
Clients and guests are permitted to access and use such materials solely for personal, non-commercial purposes relating to the booked event or experience. This licence is limited, non-exclusive, and revocable, and does not permit any further use, distribution, or reproduction.
The Beverage Academy reserves all rights not expressly granted under these Terms.
18. Your Liability to Us
The client is responsible for ensuring that the services provided can be delivered safely and without obstruction. The client shall be liable for any damage, loss, or additional costs arising from their failure to provide accurate information, adequate access, or appropriate event conditions.
The client shall be held liable for any damage to tools, equipment, or materials used by the assigned service provider during the event, where such damage results from negligence, misuse, or the actions of the client or their guests.
The client further agrees to indemnify and hold harmless The Beverage Academy Ltd from any claims, losses, or liabilities arising as a result of:
- any breach of these Terms;
- failure to comply with applicable laws or venue regulations;
- the conduct of guests during the event.
As The Beverage Academy acts solely as a booking and coordination service, we shall not be responsible for any loss, damage, or injury caused by third-party service providers, except where required by law.
19. Limitation of Our Liability
To the fullest extent permitted by law, The Beverage Academy Ltd shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, or consequential loss or damage, including but not limited to loss of enjoyment, loss of opportunity, or reputational damage, arising from or in connection with the use of our services or any booking made through us. As a coordination and booking service, The Beverage Academy Ltd does not directly provide bartending or hospitality services and accepts no liability for the acts, omissions, performance, or conduct of third-party service providers, except where liability cannot be excluded by law. We shall not be liable for any failure or delay in performance resulting from events beyond our reasonable control, including but not limited to force majeure. You are responsible for taking reasonable precautions when using our website or communicating with us online. We accept no liability for damage to your systems, data, or devices resulting from viruses, malware, or technical faults beyond our control. Nothing in these Terms shall limit or exclude our liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence, fraud, or any other liability that cannot be lawfully limited or excluded.
20. Restrictions on Use of The Beverage Academy
You may only use The Beverage Academy website and services for lawful purposes and in accordance with these Terms. You agree not to:
- Use the website or any part of our services for any fraudulent, illegal, or unauthorised purpose.
- Access, interfere with, damage, or disrupt any part of the website, its servers, systems, or security protocols.
- Attempt to reverse-engineer, copy, reproduce, or exploit any part of the website or its content without prior written consent.
- Use the website to transmit or upload viruses, malware, or any other harmful technology.
- Collect or harvest any personal data from the website, or attempt to contact other users or service providers without our prior approval.
- Misrepresent your identity or affiliation with The Beverage Academy, or impersonate any individual or entity.
- Attempt to bypass or interfere with the booking process, including soliciting service providers introduced through us for separate arrangements.
We reserve the right to suspend or permanently restrict access to the website or our services if we have reason to believe that these Terms have been violated.
21. Content Standards
Any content you submit to The Beverage Academy, whether through our website, email, social media platforms, or other communication channels, must be lawful, respectful, and appropriate.
You agree that all content you provide:
- Must not be defamatory, obscene, offensive, hateful, threatening, or abusive.
- Must not promote discrimination based on race, gender, religion, nationality, disability, or any other protected characteristic.
- Must not infringe the intellectual property rights, privacy, or other legal rights of any third party.
- Must not be false, misleading, or submitted with the intention to cause harm, deceive, or impersonate another individual or organisation.
- Must not contain any malicious software, links to harmful content, or commercial spam.
We reserve the right to remove, refuse to publish, or take legal action in response to any content that, in our reasonable opinion, breaches these standards or damages the reputation of The Beverage Academy, our service providers, or our clients.
We also reserve the right to report any unlawful communications or conduct to the relevant authorities where required by law.
22. Linking to the Site
You may link to the homepage of The Beverage Academy website, provided that such linking is carried out in a fair and lawful manner, and does not damage our reputation or seek to take advantage of it. Any link must not imply any form of association, approval, or endorsement on our part where none exists. You are not permitted to frame our website on any other site, nor may you create a link to any part of the website other than the homepage without our prior written consent. Additionally, you must not link to our website from any site that contains unlawful, defamatory, offensive, or otherwise inappropriate content, or content that would breach these Terms. We reserve the right to withdraw linking permission at any time without notice. If requested, you must promptly remove any links to our website.
23. Applicable Law and Jurisdiction
These Terms and any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with them, their subject matter, or formation (including non-contractual disputes or claims), shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales. You and The Beverage Academy Ltd agree that the courts of England and Wales shall have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute or claim arising from or related to these Terms or the use of our services.
24. Changes or Cancellations by Us and Force Majeure
The Beverage Academy Ltd reserves the right to make minor changes to services, timings, or assigned service providers at any time where necessary for operational, logistical, or safety reasons. In the event that a significant change is required, we will notify the client as soon as reasonably practicable and offer a suitable alternative or, where appropriate, a full refund. We also reserve the right to cancel any booking in circumstances where performance of the service is not possible due to reasons beyond our reasonable control. In such cases, including but not limited to those arising from a force majeure event, such as severe weather, transport disruption, utility failure, government restrictions, or the unavailability of key personnel, The Beverage Academy shall not be liable for any loss, damage, or compensation beyond a refund of sums paid. A full refund, including any deposit, will be issued only where no suitable alternative can be provided. We shall not be considered in breach of contract or otherwise liable for any failure or delay in performance where such failure or delay is the result of events beyond our reasonable control.
25. Miscellaneous
If any provision of these Terms is found to be unlawful, invalid, or unenforceable by a court or other competent authority, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect. No failure or delay by The Beverage Academy Ltd in exercising any right or remedy under these Terms shall be deemed a waiver of that or any other right or remedy. These Terms constitute the entire agreement between you and The Beverage Academy Ltd in relation to your use of our website and services and supersede any prior agreements, communications, or understandings. You may not assign, transfer, or delegate any of your rights or obligations under these Terms without our prior written consent. We may assign or transfer our rights and obligations at any time without notice. No person other than the client and The Beverage Academy Ltd shall have any rights under the Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999 to enforce any of these Terms.
