Thu 17 Oct 2024 • The Team
Tee off with… Jess Fitzmeyer
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We sat down with our fantastic Swingers Las Vegas Bar Manager, Jess Fitzmeyer, for the next installment of our “Tee Off With” series.
We sat down with our fantastic Swingers Las Vegas Bar Manager, Jess Fitzmeyer, for the next installment of our “Tee Off With” series. This time, we got to chat with Jess about her incredible journey at Swingers, what makes her passionate about her work, and her big move from our Dupont Circle, DC location to Las Vegas!
Swingers: Hey Jess! So great to sit down with you. Let’s start with the basics—how did you begin your journey with Swingers, and what’s your role?
Jess: It’s been a wild ride! I started at Swingers in December 2022 and have been managing Swingers Dupont Circle ever since. Fast forward to 2024, and I’m relocating to Vegas to start my new role as Bar Manager at Swingers Las Vegas! Very exciting.
Swingers: Wow, what a journey! We can’t wait to see what you’ll bring to the Swingers Las Vegas venue. What initially drew you to Swingers, and what’s kept you here through all these changes?
Jess: Honestly, the concept of Swingers blew me away from the start. I’d never seen anything quite like it—even growing up in Vegas, which has its fair share of unique venues! During my first interview, I knew I’d found something special. The culture here is so inclusive and creative, and as managers, we’re given a lot of freedom to build on that. That’s what keeps me excited and motivated—every day is a new challenge, and the people around me make it a joy.
Swingers: The culture really does make a difference, doesn’t it? Speaking of changes, how have you seen the company evolve since you first joined?
Jess: It’s been amazing to watch the evolution. We’ve introduced new concepts like our Weekend Brunch and Family Sessions on Sundays, and we’ve partnered with some incredible brands for beverage activations, using drinks created by our bartenders! The fact that we’re not just a London and East Coast brand anymore is huge. We made it to Las Vegas, and that’s such a milestone for us!
Swingers: That’s so exciting! You’ve clearly had a lot of different experiences at Swingers, but do you have a favorite role so far?
Jess: I’ve always been a Bar Manager, but every venue feels like a whole new adventure. It’s never repetitive. Every time I’ve moved to a new location, there’s been a fresh set of challenges and opportunities. I’d have to say managing the bar team at Dupont Circle has been one of my favorites so far.
Swingers: What’s your favorite part of working with the Swingers team overall?
Jess: It’s definitely the people. Everyone here is so knowledgeable and focused on growth—not just their own, but the growth of everyone around them. It’s such a collaborative environment. No matter what role someone holds, they’re always willing to jump in and help out. That sense of teamwork and support really makes Swingers stand out.
Swingers: We love to hear it. Any particularly memorable moments with your colleagues?
Jess: There are so many! But opening a venue has to be one of the top ones. Watching an empty space transform into a fully functioning venue is just amazing. The best part is seeing our employees’ faces light up when they finally interact with guests for the first time. It’s such an incredible feeling.
Swingers: That must be so rewarding. For someone looking to start their career at Swingers, what advice would you give them?
Jess: Be open to new ideas and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Swingers is a unique place, and it can be a bit overwhelming at first, but you’re always supported. The team here has your back, and that makes all the difference.
Swingers: Great advice! With so much experience under your belt, how do you stay motivated and passionate about your work?
Jess: It’s hard not to stay motivated here! There’s always something new happening—whether it’s a new idea, new team members, or a new project. We’re constantly pushing boundaries and finding fresh ways to create amazing experiences for our guests. That energy is contagious!
Swingers: We love that! Looking ahead, where do you see yourself in the next few years with Swingers?
Jess: I’d love to keep opening new venues and sharing the Swingers culture with new teams. I’m also really passionate about supporting other Bar Managers and helping them develop their beverage programs. And who knows—maybe I’ll get to work on some new cocktail ideas for the entire brand! I’m excited to see Swingers continue to expand and bring our unique concept to more people. I can’t wait to see how we continue to develop the beverage program and create even more innovative cocktails and experiences. The best is definitely yet to come!
Swingers: Thanks so much for chatting with us, Jess. It’s been a pleasure hearing about your journey, and we can’t wait to see what’s next for you and Swingers!
Jess: Thanks for having me! I’m so excited for what’s ahead, and I’m thrilled to be a part of this amazing team.
