A Rising Star Kind of Day 🌟

Our experience at The Hive Food & Drink Awards in Sydney

Last week, we packed our cocktail kits, dusted off the fancy outfits, and headed to The Grounds of Alexandria in Sydney for The Hive Food & Drink Awards, and what a day it was.

Held in the beautiful Linseed House, the room was a feast for the senses. From jaw-dropping florals to perfectly plated dishes, every detail was dialled up to wow. And yes, we definitely made the most of the food and drink!

We were proud finalists in the Rising Star Award category, an award that recognises start-ups under three years old doing things a little differently. Businesses shaking up the scene with innovation, resilience, and big growth potential. That’s exactly the kind of company we’re building at Cocktail Candy, and to even be included in this list of future powerhouses was incredibly humbling.

We didn’t take home the trophy (this time!), but we did leave feeling inspired and energised. The businesses that won were seriously impressive—like Aquafab, a vegan, shelf-stable egg white alternative for drinks, and Elato, an ethical ice cream brand changing how we think about dessert.

And if we’re honest? We’re so glad we went.

As a small business, walking into a room filled with national names can be daunting. But we showed up, shared our story, and made sure people left knowing who Cocktail Candy is and what we’re here to do:
✨ Make drinks fancier, easier, and a whole lot more fun.

We had great conversations, made new connections, and saw first-hand just how exciting the future of food and beverage in Australia really is.

Thanks to The Hive Awards, the Commonwealth Bank, and every incredible brand in the room. We’re just getting started—watch this space.

Check us out in the magazine here 

Sip, sip, hooray! 🥂