St. Leonard, MD = A seasoned hospitality service specialist now has a location to showcase her work. Following action taken Thursday evening, July 27, Casey St. John also has a license to sell and serve alcoholic beverages at that location. The Board of License Commissioners of Calvert County—the Liquor Board—unanimously approved St. John’s application for a Class D, On Sale, Beer, Wine and Liquor License. St. John recently opened Lash Bartenders and Rustic Wedding Collection on St. Leonard Road.

The applicant described her latest venture as “a small gathering hall” for holding events such as bridal and baby showers, birthday parties and retirement parties. With 16 years in the hospitality industry as an employee, St. John recently decided to focus on event planning, decorating and serving. “I wanted a showroom,” she said. “It’s much needed in the county. I don’t know of any businesses that do what we do for small events.”

With several events already booked, St. John decided she needed a liquor license. Her hope is to do three events per week at the hall. She told the Liquor Board that all of her adult employees would be trained and certified in alcohol service. St. John said she will not allow any minors attending an event at the St. Leonard location to be served alcohol, adding that she is opposed to underage drinking. “I am one of the strictest in the county,” St. John said.

Several people—including St. John’s father, Thomas—testified on her behalf. Thomas St. John told the board his daughter is very good with staff training, something she did when managing Vera’s in Lusby. “She’s always been big about staff meetings,” he said. “She won’t let you down.”

Amanda Sansbury, who has previously worked with St. John, told the board she was “definitely somebody who goes by the book” and checks the identifications of “anyone who looks under 50.”

There was a voice of dissent heard at the meeting. John Swoap, who works at The Tavern in St. Leonard stated the two businesses are located within a small town center that already has several places to buy and consume liquor. “I don’t see the need for it,” said Swoap, whose wife, Beth, is a member of the Liquor Board. Beth Swoap recused herself from participating in the hearing.

“I don’t see where she’s competing with you,” said Liquor Board Chairman Robert Arscott. St. John’s attorney, V. Charles Donnelly, concurred with Arscott, stating that Lash Bartenders events location was not a “hangout” for social drinkers.

Despite the objection raised, the board approved the license application. “Good luck to you,” Arscott told St. John.

Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com