The mimosa, a simple mix of orange juice and champagne, was invented by Frenchman Frank Meier. It was served at The Ritz Hotel in Paris around 1925, just in time to become a perfect complement to brunch, which was “invented” by the British for Saturday night carousers to sleep in and nurture hangovers with a late, boozy breakfast.

The classic Bellini came a decade or two later and was created by Giuseppe Cipriani, founder of Harry’s Bar in Venice, Italy. Made of peach purée and prosecco, its light pink color reminded him of a painting by 15th century Venetian artist Giovanni Bellini.

Now, making local history in Lake County is Holly Nichols, owner and operator of Blushin’ Bubbles in downtown Clermont. She and her crew of brunch-loving buddies have brought the bubbly beverage to a bold, new level.

“This all started out of a love of brunch,” says Holly, who greeted us in flip-flops and a sparkled t-shirt that read “Champagne Gang.” 

“Eventually it wasn’t really the brunch so much as an excuse to get together and drink mimosas,” she says. “Somehow, I became the ringleader as it turned into a business concept of being able to get quality mimosas any time, any day.”

Holly opened Blushin’ Bubbles in March of 2021. Two months later, it grew out of her brick-and-mortar space. Luckily, she found a storefront to share with Aimee Stanley, who owns Sugar Mama’s Candy Bar on West Montrose Street.  

Holly initially promised herself that if she was going to do it, she would do it right. This spawned weeks and months of (insert smirk) exhaustive research and development.

“There are so many possibilities and combinations,” Holly says. “We make them with high-quality juices and nectars, exotic fruit blends, Wycliff sparkling brut and rosé and a whole lot of love.”

Blushin’ Bubbles also offers seasonal flights and branded pouches so mimosa lovers can be refreshed as they walk the entertainment district during Clermont’s many downtown events. 

Her drinking demographic ranges from age 21-to mid-90s and she loves groups who make an occasion out of strolling through town, especially this time of year.

“Downtown Clermont comes a little more alive in the fall with all the festivals,” she says. “So, it’s a great time to enjoy it here with friends and the perfect bubbly beverage.”

Closed Mondays. 

716 W. Montrose St., Clermont. 

Check out @BlushinBubbles on social media for the latest specials.

Photos: Nicole Hamel