Next in our series of 'Meet the Team' we speak to Hannah Nelson, Food and Beverage Host, to discuss her motivations, hobbies and inspirations. She's a local who's grown up in Grantown, so be sure to ask for her recommendations for the area when you visit!
What made you decide to work at The Cairn?
Coming from Grantown-on-Spey, I'd spent the last few years watching the distillery being built from afar. I completed my Communication Design degree in Aberdeen and came home looking for a new challenge, so I applied to become part of the team at The Cairn. I love people and I love learning new skills - I joined the team quite recently, but everyone has been so welcoming and friendly!
What do you like best about your job?
I enjoy being able to speak to all our visitors, and ensure they are enjoying their experience. Working in The Gathering we get to see them before and after their tour so we get to see their reactions to our amazing distillery. My favourite part of the job though is making coffee with our amazing coffee machine! We have one of only two Wally milk steamers in the whole of the UK - it's a fantastic piece of kit and really makes the perfect milk for any coffee.
The Cairn is an inspirational place - what has it encouraged you to do?
I've been inspired by the location and the architecture of the site. I'm a very creative person and love to draw and sketch, so here I can find new ideas round every corner. I'm incredibly excited by the Beacon of Inspiration campaigns we do here at The Cairn too - The Shoreditch Sketcher collaboration was right up my street!
What do you like to do in your own time?
I work on my art portfolio, enhancing my skills in concept art and character design, taking inspiration from what is around me. I'm also really into gardening. I have a greenhouse at home where I've been growing fruit and vegetables. I also have a pond in my garden where I keep fish, and indoors I have a tank of Ranchu Goldfish.
As well as visiting the distillery, what would you recommend people do in the Cairngorms?
Firstly, be prepared! The weather often requires sunglasses, wellies and a winter coat, often all in one go! After you've done all the activities like nature walks, hill climbing, snow sports and golf, I recommend you visit some of our local bars and restaurants. A lot of the restaurants also use local suppliers like us, which is great to see!
