Meet Gina Nullmeyer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Gina Nullmeyer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gina, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
One of my favorite quotes is, “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” This resonates with me because it highlights the human tendency to seek comfort, even if it means remaining unfulfilled. Whether in our professional, personal, or home lives, change can be daunting, and many people choose to stay within their comfort zones, adhering to routine while dreaming of something more. This quote serves as a powerful reminder for me to embrace risks and pursue the life I truly desire. It encourages me to step beyond the familiar, as I have only one life to live and wish to do so without regrets.

What should our readers know about your business?
My journey into the world of bartending began when I was a young single mother, balancing full-time nursing school and a hospital job while striving to make ends meet. Discovering bartending was a turning point; it allowed me to work fewer hours while earning more, and at 21, I was able to purchase my first home—a beautiful three-bedroom house—entirely on my own.

Fifteen years ago, I began working as an instructor at the Bartending Academy, while also bartending at a local nightclub and running a side business in event bartending. I quickly fell in love with teaching, witnessing students transform from knowing nothing about bartending to acquiring a valuable skill in just two weeks. Seeing them gain confidence, secure jobs, and improve their circumstances brought me immense joy.
Shortly after I began teaching, I was trained to manage the office. When the owner decided to step back, I took over the business. We worked out the details, and he remains a great mentor to this day, having owned and operated multiple bartending schools across the country.
The Bartending Academy of Tucson is a professional bartending school offering hands-on training in a classroom set up like a real bar. We provide students with access to soda guns, bartending wells, glassware, and more, allowing them to start making cocktails from day one. Our two-week program offers both day and evening classes, and we stay current with Arizona State Liquor Laws, teaching certification for Title IV. Additionally, we offer a job placement assistance program, collaborating with various establishments across Tucson.
What sets our business apart is our commitment to our students’ success. We believe that a good business thrives when the owner is present and genuinely cares about the clients. Our support extends beyond graduation, offering assistance with resume building, job leads, extra practice, and refresher courses—at no additional cost. Our dedication to our students and their achievements is at the heart of what we do.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I have a deep appreciation for the unique atmosphere of Tucson’s small, locally-owned restaurants, which offer a distinct experience compared to larger chains. Here are some of my favorites that I would love to share:
The Parish Southern Restaurant: Known for its exceptional food and specialty cocktails, The Parish is a must-visit. It tends to get busy, especially during dinner, so reservations are recommended. I prefer visiting for lunch when it’s less crowded, and the portions are smaller and more affordable.

La Hacienda Mexican Restaurant: This spot offers authentic, fresh cuisine with excellent service. Their “Ultimate Margarita” is a personal favorite. Since they don’t take reservations, it’s best to arrive early to avoid long waits.

The Landing: A casual American eatery with a welcoming atmosphere, The Landing is a place where the bartender, Mitch, is known for his friendly demeanor and for remembering regulars’ names and drinks. They recently opened a Tiki Bar, which has a speakeasy vibe and is known mostly through word of mouth.

Contigo Latin Kitchen: Featuring amazing food and a beautiful outdoor patio, Contigo is perfect for seafood lovers. Their seafood dishes are highly recommended.

Locale Neighborhood Italian Restaurant: This restaurant offers authentic Italian cuisine with a lovely outdoor seating area. They even provide outdoor games for both kids and adults to enjoy.

In addition to dining, I would take my guests on a hike to explore Tucson’s natural beauty. Some of my favorite hiking spots include Catalina State Park, Seven Falls, and Picacho Peak. These locations offer breathtaking views and a chance to experience the stunning desert landscape.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have so many individuals and organizations to thank! Foremost among them are my children, who are the center of my life. Their presence has motivated me to strive for my best, as I aim to provide them with the life they deserve. I would also like to recognize the Teenage Parent Program (TAPP) at Marana High School, along with the dedicated teachers and coordinators, including Marva, Christina, Peggy K, and Peggy F. Additionally, I want to acknowledge Youth On Their Own (YOTO) and my incredible friends, who have truly become my family. Without the support of these remarkable individuals and organizations, I cannot imagine where I would be today.

Website: https://tucsonbartendingacademy.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bartendingtucson/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BARTENDTUCSON/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/bartending-academy-tucson

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/TucsonBartending