lottieramirez

[lottieramirez]

who: @lcvesupreme

where: tin roof

"Hey, Lale," she greeted the familiar face when she rounded the corner from the back of the house. She had to make sure the cooks had everything they needed and brought up some ice for the front of the house while she was at it. Lottie was trying not to work so much so she promised she'd go sit down soon, she just hadn't quite done it yet. "What are you having? I'll make you my last order of the night." With it said out loud it had to be true, right? "I've been meaning to pick your brain about that glass blowing stuff you mentioned, maybe hire you to make something for the place." The Tin Roof could always use another decoration, get rid of something old for something new.

[lottieramirez]

who: @omgduckybirrani

where: game terminal

After several rounds of cornhole it was time to take a break and that brought her to the patio bar to take in the atmosphere away from the group of friends she'd gone out with. "What do you recommend? What's the drink of the night?" Lottie asked that a lot when she was at a bar that wasn't her own, not only for intel but also to try new things. She wasn't always sure what the current popular thing was and she tried to keep up but that was easier said than done sometimes. "I'm normally a bourbon girl if that helps at all." She glanced around then back to Ducky. "This is a pretty cool place, I'm surprised it took me so long to check it out. I really like the atmosphere. How long have you worked here?"

[lottieramirez]

who: @chloecampbell

where: grand ol' opry charity event

It wasn't much of a party or drinking event, but still Lottie found a way to have a few. She was keeping it on the down low, though and then halfway through the night she'd ended up losing her hat. How, she didn't know. Must have taken it off while moving around the room doing some networking and looking for people she knew. It was a mixture of trying to find things to talk about and not knowing what to do. That put her off on the hunt for her hat and landed her at the table where Chloe Campbell was sat with some of the Applause people she knew well enough. "There it is," she grabbed the hat and flipped it onto her head, doing a quick tip in Chloe's direction. "I thought I lost it and the outfit looks ridiculous without the hat." Lottie helped herself to one of the chairs, sitting down with an unceremonious thud. "How's your night going?"

[lottieramirez]

who: @emiliamcdden

where: dolly's diner

"So what's the diagnosis, looking at the social medias stuff or whatever for the bar?" It was no secret to anyone that worked for Lottie that her social media skills were more than lacking. She had no idea how any of it truly worked, but she knew how to post a picture and scroll through a feed. Lottie knew that it was important, though and she knew that most people her age and younger used it to find out what's going on in the world. After her in house marketing person moved on to bigger and better things it was high time she get on top of it for the sake of the Tin Roof. Which meant hiring someone who knew social media and that's where Emilia came in. "Am I doomed?"

[lottieramirez]

"Damn. That does sound nice, maybe I'll think about it after the summer's over." It was one of their busiest times and even if she was comfortable leaving (which she wasn't) there was no way she could leave them right now. "I think you're giving them all too much credit," she said with a quick laugh and a wink. "I'm kidding, there a good bunch." Most of them anyways. There were a few questionable ones but no matter what she did there were always a couple that just didn't seem to get it. "Not that I know of, they don't tell me a ton though. I could see Anybody Records snatching them up though." Lottie pointed to a guy to the left of the stage. "That's one of their new scouts, he got a drink a little while ago." She continued to talk while she prepared Brenna's drink, multi-tasking and grabbing some money as she went along. "Just don't steal any of my employees this time, I'm short-staffed as it is." Lottie teased and pushed her paloma toward her.

Brenna laughs, eyes rolling a little at Lottie's words. "Yeah, it's the newest fad. I'm surprised you haven't heard of it yet. No e-mails, no work calls, absurd amounts of alcohol. Meaningless sex with a stranger staying on the same beach as you," she raises an eyebrow, grinning. "You should look into it some time. You have fire extinguishers here. Your staff would figure it out." Her nails drum against the bar top while she waits for Lottie to check who was up next, her expectations admittedly high. It was rare that she was met with a bust when she came here, and she was hopeful to keep the streak going. "Is anyone else looking at them?" She asks, her nosey nature kicking in. "I'll take a paloma when you get a second."

[lottieramirez]

"Damn, girl, you're an easy scare if that got you." Lottie laughed and looked at what Ellie was holding in her hand. An eyebrow raised. "That's very shiny," she pointed out. Not really her thing but she wasn't about to judge anyone on their tumbler choices. "Anyways, are you having a good time? Where's Avery hanging out at?" Lottie looked around in case she missed him somewhere. She'd taken a break from the pride area to come look around at what the rest of the fair had to offer. Also to get some funnel cake because it was a must have. "Want some?" She offered by extending her arm out for her to grab some if she wanted.

starter for: @lottieramirez location: street fair

While her daughter was running around the kids area, Ellie found herself wandering some of the booths in the area looking at all the bits and bobs she wouldn't spend money on because she needed to make sure she had enough to buy Avery a snow cone later. She picked up a little handmade tumbler with glittery words on the side of it and watched it sparkle in the sunshine. She was just about to put it down when she heard her name way too closely behind her and she screamed, spinning around in shock and almost dropping the cup. "Oh my god you scared me." Ellie gasped and put a hand on her chest.

[lottieramirez]

"That's good and surprising considering the heat," Lottie wiped away some of the sweat that was starting to bead at her hair line. It reminded her that she needed to put a bandana band on sooner rather than later to stay cool. "Usually anger stirs quicker when they all get hot, maybe we're cooling them off." She laughed. The area did have a lot of shady drinks and the blended ice drinks that always seemed to be a hit at these places. "Good, I'm glad you guys are going to get some family time in. It's important, I still remember when we would all come to the street fair." They never had much money to buy anything but that was because there were way too many of them. It didn't matter though, they always had a good time. "I hope I see you guys out and about. How old is he now? Taller than you yet?"

Sky gives Lottie a smile as she loops another wristband. Honestly, she was getting better and better at this as the day went on. It was kind of like bartending, even if she wasn't coated in wet marks and a little sticky from the mixers. "Seems like everything's going fine... No one's yelled about anything which is a change from the bar," she shrugs. Sky loves the energetic feeling of being behind the bar-- she doesn't even mind the occasion bar fight or the occasion angry drunk, it keeps things different. "Aw, thank you. He'll love them," Sky smiles. "Yeah, we're going to have some family time. He and his dad are going to meet me after I finish up here so we can enjoy it all together."

[lottieramirez]

"I only speak the truth, kid." She hummed. Felix was one of the good ones. Like family and she couldn't say how proud she was of the progress he'd made. There was no doubt she held a special place in her heart for him and if she had a kid she would hope he'd be something like him. "You got a deal there. Hey, that's amazing! Look at how far you've come already." Sobriety was an amazing feat for those who needed it. Her brother had a bad drug problem and it had gotten very scary for everyone who had to watch on the sidelines. When he got sober it was a relief for everyone. She was sure it was the same for everyone who cared about Felix, herself included.

She watched as he moved over to the stage and went back to organizing all the things they would need for the night. Liquor, the big coolers for beer and ice, the portable bar for the doorway, and wristbands for the area so they knew who was of age and who wasn't. "That would be a travesty, plus I think I would be liable." Lottie frowned wondering the legalities of it all. It didn't matter, they had event insurance and liability insurance on top of that. There was no way she would go without. "I might take a break or two to go see what's going on outside the area. Get a dance or two in, maybe meet someone to take home later." She laughed. It was unlikely and she was hoping to stay busy so she didn't end up running into her ex who she heard was back in town. "What's your plan?"

"Ah, Lottie, a compliment from you always brightens up my day," Felix said with a smile. He liked the older woman. She'd always been cool with him, even when he was a snot-nosed little dirkbag (and some might argue that he still was). "I've got you. You can pay me in free sodas tonight," he teased. "I got my nine month chip a few weeks ago." There was a barely detectable hint of pride in his voice. He didn't often talk about his sobriety with most people unprompted, but he felt like Lottie would be proud of him.

He walked over towards the stage, taking a look at it to examine the areas most in need before organizing his tools. He couldn't exactly claim that being in construction was a life he had always dreamed of, but it was nice to be able to help people out and do something useful. "We'll have this thing good as new. We can't have Cheyenne Pepper doing the splits and falling through the stage," he chuckled. He was still kind of new to being involved in the queer community. His family hadn't been the most open-minded. The Tin Roof had always been a safe space for him, though, even at his worst.

"Are you doing anything else for the festivities, or are you going to be too busy at the bar?" he asked. "Just say the word and I'll bring you back some chilli or hot wings."

[lottieramirez]

i just think that these pictures are so important for society… and the economy… and science

[lottieramirez]

"Sure ya do, that's why you keep coming back to visit." Lottie teased and nudged her arm a couple times with her elbow. It wasn't a secret that the older woman loving this kind of work is considered crazy. This was a transition job for most, while they went to college or attempted to break into the industry. There were only a few that stuck around for the long term. None of that mattered however, because she didn't mind hopping behind the bar or serving a drink to help out. It was fun for her. "Yeah? I don't think I would have the patience to do all that, even in another life." Lottie had never been one for getting all dressed up or made up in anyway. She got into a suit when it was needed. "I'm glad you're having a good time. I was really happy we got to help put this on. Put a little bit of the rainbow in the fair." For a brief moment Lottie had on a proud smile but it disappeared again in a blink. "How've you been, kid?"

who → @lottieramirezwhere → the tin roof

"I really, don't miss this." She said, but the smile on her face betrayed the real emotion for someone who knew her, and it could be argued that Lottie had known her through the worst part of her life, and if that didn't really introduce you to someone, then they weren't paying attention. Bodies of patrons buzzing around her, it was sorta like going home every time she went to the restaurant now, "in another life I think I was a drag queen." She said with a laugh, "this is literally my favorite part of the whole street fair, it takes a whole different sort of talent for this kinda gig."

[lottieramirez]

"I hope it went well." Lottie really did, too. She laughed at his description of the lead singer and how from that she knew exactly who he was talking about. "Oh yeah, I've seen them around. I think I've only heard them one time though and I was admittedly drinking so I don't remember well." If that had even been them. At this point she's not sure and it could have been anyone. Didn't matter overall though. "We're sponsoring the LGBTQ+ center and they went around and gathered a whole bunch of partners to have a little Pride area during the street fair." Lottie thought it was cool she got to help make space for people in the queer community, her community. "Music by queer artists, drag shows, then tents with information and artists and stuff. With drinks and food by us, of course." She shrugged. "Are you coming out?"

"Just wrapped up, actually." Hayes said, chin resting on the heel of his hand as he watched the owner of the bar move around behind the counter. "New country folk band in town, you probably have seen 'em. The lead singer looks like Santa if he was a fly fisher." The band was pretty interesting. It was like hanging out with his grandpa all over again. He should probably call him soon, actually... "Also getting ready for the fair. I'm in the sound booth for a few of the shows. What's your plan for the party?"

[lottieramirez]

-moved to street fair-

"Never be sorry for that, it's a good thing and you deserve it." Though Lottie could imagine it meant she was getting recognized a lot more often and that could make going out a little more stressful. Luckily there were plenty of places in Nashville that celebrities/musicians big and small would be safe from being swarmed so they can enjoy themselves. "I don't know, drunk frat douches spilling beer and trying to take you home is my favorite past time. I don't know how you can live without it." The older woman laugh and shot her a quick wink. She gave a nod to one of the artists that played earlier. "Really? You know you don't have to say that for my benefit, right?" Lottie nodded though, she couldn't imagine how hard it would be to get thrust into something new after all the years she'd been running the Tin Roof. "Better you than me, kid. Luckily you're young and super smart so you won't have a problem." The bartender dropped off a couple rainbow slush drinks and she handed one to Gia. "They're pride slushies, try it out and let me know what you think."

Gia is quick to return Lottie's hug, standing long enough to give her a quick squeeze before sitting again. Pushing stray curls out of her hair, she shifts in her seat so she can face the other, one of her arms leaning against the bar top. She scrunches her nose, laughing a little. "Yeah, sorry about that. I think even my mom is getting tired of seeing my face." It's not that Gia means to sound ungrateful, it's just definitely been an adjustment. But this was what she had always wanted, so even though it's overwhelmingly difficult at times, she's enjoying the ride. "You don't think getting beer spilled on me by drunk frat douches compares to it all?" She jokes with a shake of her head. "I do miss it though. It was like... comfortable here. I actually knew what I was doing instead of winging it."

[lottieramirez]

who: @skyperez

where: street fair, tin roof area

Lottie was doing her best to keep an eye on everyone and everything. It proved to be a bit harder out on the street versus in the bar. Lucky for her, she had some of the best employees in the world and things seemed to be going as smoothly as it could go so far. Sky had agreed to come in and help with wristbands for a few hours and she was more than grateful, especially knowing she had a young one who probably wanted to join in on the fun. "Hey, how are things going over here?" She asked upon approach once she got away from the drag coordinator. "I snatched a few temporary tattoos and stickers for the little one. Are you going to bring them to all the kid stuff?" Lottie knew she was going to take an hour or two the next day to take her nephews and nieces to the petting zoo and do some crafts. She loved getting to spend the time with them.

[lottieramirez]

-moved to the street fair-

"No, it goes over there," Lottie shouted over the din of the crowd at the employee putting a keg in the wrong place for the second time that day and there was no way she was going to move another one. Her arms were tired and after loading everything from the Tin Roof out to the front for the street fair she was sure she strained a muscle in her back. "Hey, darlin'," she gave Brenna a nod when she noticed she'd pulled up a spot at the bar. Always a sight for sore eyes, as most of the Cabrera's were. Good genes in that bunch. She let out a loud laugh when she caught the question the other woman posed. Lottie handed a drink to a customer and nodded for the bartender to take over now that their break was done. "A vacation? I don't think I've heard that word before, is it a new thing?" She gave her a quick wink and rested her chin lightly in her hand. "I don't have time for a vacation, I'd be too afraid the place would go up in flames. Uh, let me check," she popped a look at her phone with the performer list on it. "I've heard good things, they're a queer pop artist from South Dakota. Chasing that American dream. I think you might dig them." Not that she was sure what anyone was looking for those days. "You want something to drink, doll?"

closed: @lottieramirez setting: tin roof

While talent scouting isn't technically in Brenna's job description, she sees no problem in keeping an ear to the ground about anyone up and coming or unsigned. What's a label without their artists, right? If their family and company is going to continue to be at the top of the food chain, everyone has to go above and beyond. Which is why Brenna finds herself frequenting the bars and cafes that offer open mic nights or set spots for lesser known artists. Gives her a chance to pounce before someone else a chance to snatch them up. Admittedly, they had found a lot of great artists and bands at the Tin Roof which was why Brenna had made a point to stop in at least once a week and get on friendly terms with the staff. "You work too hard, Lottie. When was the last time you took a vacation?" She greets, spotting the owner behind the bar — it was a strange sight, most bar owners either completely MIA or locked in an office in the back, but Brenna appreciated it. "Tell me you've got someone good coming on next."

[lottieramirez]

-time skip to the street fair event-

"Aww, mi corazon, I'm honored to provide. I do love me some company." Lottie shot her a quick wink and a wide smile. Naomi was a good woman, even though Lottie sometimes found her a little on the strange side. However, the woman helped her sibling in a way that no one else had ever been able to. It was something her and the whole family would be forever indebted to the woman for. She was certain they were going to lose them if some major changes didn't happen. "They're just filler until the drag queens come out, that will be the real show." Lottie nodded toward the glimpse of one of the performers hanging near the stage. "Have you ever been to a drag show, Naomi?"

Indulgence is a fine line with Naomi. She doesn't often partake, she simply enables her affluent 'friends' (read: business associates), lets them drink and be merry in her home and allows them to see how good they can have it if they stick by her side. She likes to think she's got that down to a science, but it doesn't hurt to pay visits to the places downtown she knows people like to frequent — Tin Roof, of course, being one of the most popular. The owner's sibling is a regular at the compound, which means Naomi has an in. Not that she really needs one, but it makes chatting with Lottie like they're old friends just a bit more reasonable. "Long enough to want company, now that I've got it my night's gotten better," she all but schmoozes, lifting an eyebrow as she taps her glass. "Interesting band you've got up there tonight."

[lottieramirez]

-time skip to early morning before the event-

As much as she tried to keep an eye on all the patrons, it was impossible to keep track of everything going on. That meant broken tables, chairs, doors, etc. Usually from people getting a little too rowdy or fighting for whatever reason. That was when she called in one of the kids to help her out. Could she get it done herself? Probably. But, why would she do that when there were young, strapping lads who could do it just as good if not better while she did the other million things on her list.

"Hola, cutie," she greeted as she opened the door and quickly pinched his chin before moving aside so he could come in. "It's the portable stage," the older woman pointed to the broken pieces of stage that needed to be put back together. "Same as I always am." Some cross between shitty, exhausted, lonely, and busy. Along with a few moments of happiness whenever she could take the moment to be with those she cared about (which was everyone). "Have to get that thing sturdy for the drag queens, they know how to own a stage." She laughed.

Starter for: @lottieramirez Location: The Tin Roof

Felix had been coming to The Tin Roof for years, since way before he was old enough to actually drink. Lottie, the owner, had always been cool to him. He knew he hadn't been the easiest person to deal with, and she was always ready to tell him when he was being a prick, but also welcome him back with open arms. The queer events she held at her bar had helped him come to terms with his sexuality, and even though he didn't drink any more, The Tin Roof would always be a home for him, so he was more than happy to come over during closing hours and help her fix some stuff up.

"Hey, someone order some help from a pale Mexican dude with a toolbox?" he greeted the older woman with a playful smile as she unlocked the doors for him. He liked the place like this; quiet, empty, just the two of them, and nobody trying to shove drinks in his face. "It's been a while. How are you doing?" he asked.

[lottieramirez]

"Ain't that the truth?" She laughed with him, nodding in agreement. It was always good to see Ryland and catch up. Certain people held a special place in her heart when they ran off to do bigger and better things, or moved on. She thought about them often and liked to check in whenever she could. If there was anything they needed that she could help with, she was there in a heartbeat. Ry was one of those people, at the end of the day he was family just like her own blood. "Hmm, think it's probably a little of both?" Lottie snickered and motioned for another couple drinks. "How are things going with you? Stayin' out of trouble, I hope."

Sure, the amount of bars Ry could frequent was countless. It seemed like new ones popped up constantly, but for him. The Tin Roof was always home. He'd worked here for nearly six years fresh off the road from Illinois back when he was a kid, and Lottie had always been good to him. Even now, he felt like he was with family more than anything whenever he stopped by. He came by to check in with her from time to time, and no matter how busy it was, he always made sure to have a conversation with the woman who had helped him pay his rent before royalties started rolling in. "It's like you give 'em a break and they suddenly retaliate," he said with a laugh. The man threw a look over his shoulder toward the stage and turned back to the bar, glancing at his phone screen. "Honestly, I can't remember what time I got here. Is that a sign of old age or just a really strong drink?"