A Passion Born in London
For Lebanese hospitality entrepreneur Elie Francis, the journey into luxury bar catering began in an unexpected place London. It was there that he discovered his passion for creating experiences that go beyond service. For Francis, hospitality was never just about pouring drinks or serving guests; it was about connection, atmosphere, and emotion.
He recalls that the defining moment came when he realized that people don’t remember what they drank they remember how the moment made them feel. That realization became the foundation for what would later become Stir’d Not Shaken, a brand built on the art of emotional hospitality.
The Birth of Stir’d Not Shaken
When the world came to a halt during the COVID-19 pandemic, most people struggled to adapt to the uncertainty. For Elie Francis, it was the moment to create something meaningful out of chaos. With limited resources and no guarantees, he launched Stir’d Not Shaken in Lebanon a luxury bar catering concept that would redefine how events and brands approached hospitality.
Starting a business in the middle of a global crisis wasn’t easy. Lebanon was facing one of the worst economic collapses in its history, with currency depreciation and financial instability affecting every sector. Yet, Francis remained resilient and determined. What started as a survival effort soon turned into a story of growth, driven by passion, creativity, and an unshakable belief in excellence.
Rising Above Challenges
Operating a hospitality business amid Lebanon’s economic and political challenges was a true test of endurance. The collapse of the Lebanese pound, import restrictions, and ongoing social unrest created daily obstacles for small business owners. Still, Francis refused to give up.
Instead, he embraced the challenges as lessons in adaptability and resilience. Through careful planning, brand storytelling, and an unwavering commitment to quality, he built Stir’d Not Shaken into one of Lebanon’s most recognizable names in luxury event experiences.
His philosophy was simple when the world around you is unstable, your consistency becomes your biggest strength. This mindset turned a small startup born out of uncertainty into a symbol of luxury, creativity, and emotional connection.
Partnering with Global Luxury Brands
One of Elie Francis’s most remarkable achievements came when Stir’d Not Shaken began catering for international luxury houses like Moynat, Guerlain, and Chloé. These collaborations weren’t just business deals; they were moments of validation.
Catering for such prestigious brands proved that Stir’d Not Shaken could stand alongside global names known for elegance, refinement, and excellence. Francis saw this as a turning point a sign that his vision was not only sustainable but capable of making a global impact.
It also demonstrated that his brand could interpret and complement the language of luxury one that speaks not just through visuals and products but through experiences that engage all the senses.
The Philosophy Behind the Brand
At its core, Stir’d Not Shaken is more than a bar catering company it’s an experience. Every drink, every setup, and every detail is designed to evoke emotion. Francis believes that true hospitality lies in how people are made to feel, not just what they receive.
His approach combines artistry, precision, and emotional intelligence. The service tone, energy, and attention to detail all play a vital role in curating an atmosphere that guests will remember long after the event is over.
This philosophy sets the brand apart from others in the industry. It’s not about volume or speed it’s about storytelling. Each event becomes a stage where flavors, aromas, and interactions create a lasting memory.
Expanding Globally
With success firmly established in Lebanon, Elie Francis is now setting his sights beyond borders. His expansion plans include Dubai and Madrid, two cities known for their thriving luxury markets and cosmopolitan audiences.
Dubai, with its reputation as a global hub for high-end events, offers Stir’d Not Shaken the perfect platform to showcase its craftsmanship and creativity. Meanwhile, Madrid brings a European sophistication that aligns with the brand’s elegant and artistic identity.
Through this expansion, Francis aims to position Stir’d Not Shaken as a global leader in premium hospitality experiences one that merges cultural diversity with a consistent standard of excellence.
Lessons in Leadership and Resilience
Throughout his journey, Elie Francis has learned that success in hospitality is not about luck but discipline, consistency, and care. His guiding principle “consistency beats luck” has shaped every aspect of his work.
He believes that in an industry built on details and impressions, showing up with the same level of passion every day is what separates the good from the great. For him, creativity and excellence are not occasional efforts; they are habits built through constant refinement and dedication.
This belief extends to his leadership style as well. Francis emphasizes teamwork, empowerment, and shared passion. He sees his team not just as staff but as ambassadors of an emotion the emotion that defines Stir’d Not Shaken.
The Legacy He Wants to Build
For Elie Francis, the ultimate goal isn’t just recognition or expansion it’s emotional legacy. He envisions Stir’d Not Shaken as a brand remembered for how it makes people feel.
From the service tone to the visual aesthetics, every interaction is crafted to create warmth and wonder. He wants guests to remember the laughter shared over a crafted cocktail, the music that matched the mood, and the feeling of being part of something beautifully personal.
In an age where experiences matter more than possessions, Francis’s approach resonates deeply. Stir’d Not Shaken doesn’t just serve it connects, inspires, and celebrates human emotion.
A Message to the Next Generation
When asked what advice he would give to his younger self, Francis’s answer reflects his journey “Be patient. The right path will come. Once it does, give it your all, stay consistent, and opportunities will follow naturally.”
This wisdom mirrors the heart of his story patience, persistence, and passion. His career stands as a reminder that great things take time, and success is built one meaningful experience at a time.
Looking Ahead
As Stir’d Not Shaken continues to expand across continents, the essence of the brand remains the same a deep respect for craftsmanship, emotion, and human connection.
Whether serving in Beirut, Dubai, or Madrid, every cocktail, every gesture, and every smile embodies the spirit of what Elie Francis has built: a celebration of feeling, not just flavor.
From London’s inspiration to Lebanon’s resilience and now the world’s stage, the journey of Elie Francis is a story of passion stirred, not shaken.
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Also read: Riyadh Named 2025 Arab Capital of Culture by Arab League
