If you’ve ever attended Art On The Rocks presented by Dale’s Seasoning, you know the party doesn’t stop when the Museum closes its doors. This summer, the BMA teamed up with family-owned craft cocktail bar Paper Doll to host AfterRocks, the official Art On The Rocks after party.
Since opening in December 2018, Paper Doll has quickly become one of the hottest spots downtown. With an extensive drink menu and elegant yet cozy atmosphere, the bar is a unique space that invites guests to feel right at home. Check out our interview below with co-owner Kevin Cook to learn more about Paper Doll’s story and what you can expect at AfterRocks on August 9th.
BMA: Where did you get the inspiration for the unique atmosphere that Paper Doll is known for?
Kevin Cook: We wanted to create a unique experience in the Birmingham nightlife scene. We wanted to highlight local artists and suppliers (such as William McClure, Lindsey Porter, Jan Roberts, William Casey, and Heather Chadduck Hilegas) to produce an atmosphere that felt like you could be in any major city in the US. We were very fortunate to partner with Andrew Brown Interiors. Andrew did an exceptional job on the design and he really helped us execute the vision that we desired.
BMA: What drew you to the craft cocktail industry?
KC: Paper Doll is a family-owned business with all of the owners growing up and living in Birmingham. An opportunity to be part of the Birmingham business community presented itself and once we started discussing the ideas and concept there was no turning back. We are very fortunate and thankful for the positive response we have received from our patrons and we look forward to continuing to serve and provide an exceptional experience for them.
BMA: What sets Paper Doll apart from other bars in the Magic City?
KC: We have an exceptional drink menu that was purposefully crafted to appeal to a variety of different taste palates. We use house-made syrups, bitters, and hand-ground fresh herbs and juices for our specialty drinks. Our menu is organized by spirit, with about 10-12 drink options for each spirit. We have special seasonal menus and the bartenders create new drinks frequently.
We feel that the drinks and the atmosphere are unique in the fact that our space appeals to a variety of different settings. We have had businesses rent out certain sections for work events, we have the private room that has been used for wedding showers and birthday parties, the couch and main bar area is perfect for happy hour and date nights, and on the weekends we have a DJ that plays a set list that is unique and fits the vibe of our space.
BMA: Why were you interested in partnering with the BMA as a sponsor for the 2019 season of Art On The Rocks?
KC: Being able to support and partner with the BMA through Art On The Rocks is a natural fit for us, and we are very appreciative of the opportunity. We feel a connection to the BMA, and its mission “to spark the creativity, imagination, and liveliness of Birmingham by connecting all of its citizens to the experience, meaning, and joy of art.” While the BMA does this through art, we hope that our organization can have somewhat of a similar impact on our guests through the experience they have at our space.
BMA: What can attendees expect at the AfterRocks after party?
KC: We are looking forward to hosting all of the AOTR attendees! Expect the party to continue with curated beats by DJ Tony Rodio in the dance room, great drinks, and a great night! We will also have an additional bar in the back to help serve drinks.
Don’t miss the season finale of Art On The Rocks on August 9, featuring dance and opera performances, artist demonstrations, live music by Black Joe Lewis & the Honeybears, and the unveiling of Barbie: Dreaming of a Female Future. Join us for #AfterRocks at PaperDoll to keep the party going all night. Show your Art On The Rocks wristband for free entry!
