Michelle and Tanner Miller took over Norman’s Bluebonnet Bar in their 20s with the goal of keeping a historic local bar alive. On Nov. 7, they will celebrate 10 years as owners with live music all day as they look back on all the memories they have made.
“We have come to realize the Bluebonnet is much more than a bar,” said Michelle. “It is a community that means a great deal to people.” Michelle added that they know of at least 15 people who have gotten Bluebonnet tattoos, a sign of the connection that some customers have developed with the bar. “So much of Norman’s history, friendships and memories have passed through these doors, and we are proud to be a part of that,” Michelle added.
Established in 1935, the Bluebonnet has remained part of Norman’s history through generations of change. When the Millers took over, they had one goal. “Keep the Bluebonnet feeling like the Bluebonnet,” Michelle said.
The business has evolved under their ownership while trying to preserve the character it has developed. Before they bought it, the bar was beer and cash only. The Millers acquired a liquor license and added a credit card machine.
When the Millers first bought the Bluebonnet, they knew they wanted to keep the bar going but did not fully understand what it meant to take on a piece of Norman history. Now they take pride in preserving its character.
One thing they are especially proud of is the role the local music community has played in their journey as business owners.
“We have live music six nights a week and try to give Oklahoma musicians a place to play,” Michelle said.
For Michelle, watching artists grow their careers through performances at the Bluebonnet has been one of the most rewarding parts of owning the bar. In recent years, they have had artists such as Bottom of the Barrel, Bailey Boy and Billy Bonney. Michelle recalled hosting musicians such as Ken Pomeroy, Kaitlin Butts, Samantha Crain and John Moreland early in their careers. Watching artists develop over time has become part of the experience of running a venue that prioritizes Oklahoma musicians.
“We often get to host Oklahoma legends like Hosty, Camille Harp, Kierston White and Derek Paul,” Michelle said.
For the celebration on Nov. 7, they will host Derek Paul and The Aints, The Contraband, Dylan Stewart, Stephen Baker, Celia Monroe, Daniel Burgess and The $2 Tall Boys, and more.
Michelle said people would be surprised how much goes on behind the scenes. Most people see the music, drinks and everyone having a good time, but from their side it feels different. The long hours and personal investment help sustain the community of the Bluebonnet.
“We are not just bartenders. We are counselors, matchmakers and sometimes a little bit of everything else,” said Michelle. “You never know what someone might be carrying, and having a place to feel welcome can make all the difference.”
The Bluebonnet has become a place where people can connect with others and feel like they belong. Looking ahead, they hope to continue building the community they have helped create. They want the Bluebonnet to remain a place where people feel welcome, live music thrives and the community comes together. Whether people have visited for years or are walking through the doors for the first time, the Millers want them to feel welcome.
“We want them to feel accepted, make memories and find their people,” said Michelle. “If we can continue bringing people together for another 10 years, we’ll consider that a success.”
The post More Than a Bar: The Bluebonnet Celebrates 10 Years Under Local Ownership appeared first on Oklahoma Gazette.
