Maxwell’s: A Pop up Holiday Speakeasy

How has this idea enhanced your club's operation, etc.?

Our holiday pop up, Maxwell’s, is a speakeasy style bar that was built by turning an underutilized banquet storage area into an intimate 15 seat cocktail lounge. We launched this operation to bring a blast from the past with a modern flare to our club. Maxwell’s Speakeasy, named for the famous golf course architect, Perry Maxwell officially opened on November 1st, 2017 and has since generated $30,000 of additional revenue for our clubhouse. The speakeasy concept is one that has grown very popular in the industry around the world. Unspecified locations, and unassuming surroundings lead to a lavish throwback to some of the country’s most sought-after cocktail lounges. Featured in the December issue of Club & Resort Business Magazine, this “hush-hush” venue has been a huge success among the membership.

How was this idea implemented, and what have been the club members' reactions?

Our pop-up speakeasy, Maxwell’s, was implemented to offer something new and innovative to our membership. Our General Manager/COO, Oliver Boudin, CCM visited several different speakeasy style bars while traveling overseas and wanted to bring the concept back to the Oklahoma City Golf & Country Club. The area that we transformed is underneath a staircase that was previously used to store banquet chairs. The entrance to Maxwell’s can only be accessed by a code that is changed nightly to keep the element of exclusivity intact. Reservations to Maxwell’s are recommended and are offered to parties 6 or less each night. Our membership has been very excited and supportive of our latest concept! They have fun getting into the theme of things and can often be seen taking photos using our antique hat collection. Due to the small space, they get unique and personalized service from our bar staff that makes them feel like they have been to a different era.