MURRELLS INLET, S.C. (WMBF) – Steve Shephard’s old fashioneds are as snazzy as his look: bold, balanced, with just the right twist.
“I try to find the best fashion that fits that spirit, and that’s a fun process,” said Shephard.
Shephard is a master mixologist at The Venue at International Club, which overlooks the golf course at the International Club of Myrtle Beach .
He left behind two decades of special effects makeup and airbrush artistry to perfect the craft of shaking cocktails.
“Went and learned how all the different alcohols were made, and fell in love with the whole process of making all the different alcohols,” he said.
Of all the bottles on the shelf, the bourbon that calls him the loudest.
“To be able to take you and show you that it’s not just the rough, harsh flavor. I can accent that flavor, or we can make it sweet and pull out different flavors for you,” said Shephard.
His ability to elevate every cocktail is shown, as he’s dominated in competitions worldwide.
“I have roughly 64 award-winning old fashioneds, a few Manhattans, and a few whiskey sours,” he said.
Shepard showcased three of his award-winning recipes, including the Baskin-Robbins, a classic old fashioned, and the Sazerac Manhattan.
And you won’t just get a drink with Shephard behind the bar, but also a history lesson. His knack and knowledge are nothing short of impressive. The mixologist knows how to make 5,664 cocktails and a little more than a thousand spirits.
“The old fashioned was actually created for the ladies,” said Shephard. “Most of the spirits we have today were actually created for medicinal purposes, and most of the cocktails that we have today were created for medicinal purposes.”
No matter the request, Shephard credits The Venue and the people who turn a good cocktail into something truly unforgettable.
“Not everybody always really enjoys their job as much as everybody does here, and it’s been a blast, and it’s been a true pleasure working with everyone here,” he said.
The Venue is open to the public.
If you have good news to share, email goodnews@wmbfnews.com or message Loren on Facebook.
Feel more informed, prepared, and connected with WMBF. For more free content like this, download our apps. Have feedback that can help us improve? Click here.
Copyright 2025 WMBF. All rights reserved.