Starting A Mobile Bartending Service: What You Need To Know
If you have a knack for mixing drinks, why not make it your vocation and start a mobile bartending service? With a mobile bar business, you can provide private and corporate clients with unique craft cocktails while building a successful career.
By setting up the right foundation, you can stand out from the competition by offering a perfect blend of quality drinks and personalized service. Whether you’re looking to launch your own business or just looking for some extra income, starting a mobile bartending service could be the ideal opportunity.
So if you’re ready to take that leap into the world of mixology, read on to learn how to set up your mobile bar business.
The Advantages Of A Mobile Bar Business
The advantages of starting a mobile bar business are numerous. Firstly, it allows you to be your boss and control your hours. You can also choose to work either part-time or full-time, depending on how much time you want to dedicate to the business.
Moreover, there are lower startup costs than a traditional brick-and-mortar bar since you don’t need to rent or buy a physical space. Additionally, the revenue potential is high as clients often pay for drinks in bulk with no overhead costs.
Finally, mobile bars can be taken anywhere, so you can work events indoors and outdoors. With all these advantages combined, it’s no wonder more people are turning towards mobile bar businesses!
It's A Vocation
For many, the mobile bartending business is more than just a job; it’s a vocation. Working as a mobile bartender requires an eye for detail, knowledge of drinks and mixology, and the ability to provide great customer service. It also requires excellent organizational and interpersonal skills.
This type of work allows you to meet new people and build relationships with them while creating memories that will last a lifetime. Moreover, if you enjoy being social and like the idea of taking your business on the road, this is definitely worth considering.
Good Potential For Private & Corporate Work
Most people associate mobile bartending with private parties and events. However, there is also considerable potential for corporate work in this field. From weddings to corporate gatherings, a skilled mobile bartender can provide an atmosphere of fun and relaxation while serving some of the finest drinks available.
Moreover, these types of events are often more profitable than private parties as they offer larger tips and better pay rates. Furthermore, corporate clients often have more resources, so they may be willing to pay more for specialized services such as mixology classes or custom-made cocktails. As such, it is important to consider the potential for private and corporate opportunities when starting a mobile bartending business.
Stand Out From The Crowd
When starting a mobile bartending business, standing out from the crowd is important. The best way to do this is by offering something unique and interesting that your competitors don’t. For example, if you are passionate about making cocktails, you can focus on creating a range of signature drinks that will make your services stand out from the rest. Additionally, having an eye for detail and presentation when setting up a bar at an event can help make it visually appealing and more inviting for guests.
Finally, providing excellent customer service is essential in any hospitality role and is especially important when running a mobile bartending service- always be courteous and friendly with clients, as this will help you build a good reputation over time
Good Profit Margins & Opportunities
When starting a mobile bartending business, it is important to consider the profit margins and opportunities available. Alternatives to beer often have better profit margins due to the increased cost of ingredients. This can benefit businesses as they will likely make more money from selling these drinks than cheaper options.
Furthermore, offering alternative drinks may also provide more opportunities for events. Event organizers may be more likely to select your business for their event if it is unique or if you have a different take on things. Therefore, focusing on cocktail-making or other alternatives that attract more customers and increase profits is recommended.
Sole Rights
When starting a mobile bartending business, one of the best ways to ensure success is to obtain sole rights. This means you are the only vendor allowed to sell alcohol at an event or show. Acquiring sole rights can be expensive and, in some cases, may require you to purchase a license from the local authorities.
However, this investment can pay off in the long run as it gives you a monopoly position on the bar(s). As you won’t have any competition regarding price, customers are more likely to come directly to your business for their drinks. Furthermore, it allows you to set your own prices and make additional profits by charging more than competitors normally charge.
How To Set Up A Mobile Bar Business
Setting up a mobile bar business is an exciting yet challenging process. It involves a lot of planning, preparation and organization. You can successfully set up a mobile bar business by following these steps!
Mobile Bar Business Registration
When starting a mobile bar business, it is essential to register your business to stay compliant with local laws and regulations. Depending on the structure of your business, you may need to register as a partnership, limited company, or sole trader. Additionally, you should contact the council where you intend to run your business to get permission for any necessary licenses or permits.
You should also register with HMRC as either a self-employed person or a limited company depending on the structure of your business. Finally, it is important to acquire public liability insurance to protect yourself and your assets from any potential claims against the business.
Small Business Banking
Small business banking is essential for keeping a business running smoothly. It allows businesses to manage their finances, pay bills, and accept customer payments. When selecting a bank, it is important to consider features such as fees, interest rates, customer service, and digital banking capabilities.
Many banks offer exclusive services specifically designed for small businesses, including loan programs, cash flow management tools, and credit card processing capabilities. Additionally, many banks have dedicated small business divisions that provide additional support and resources to entrepreneurs.
Insurance For A Mobile Bar
Insurance is an important part of any business, especially a mobile bar. It protects you against claims made by customers or members of the public and provides peace of mind to customers who may be concerned about their safety while attending your events.
The three main types of insurance for a mobile bar are Employers Liability, Public Liability and Equipment Insurance. Employers Liability covers any staff or volunteers who work for you and is a legal requirement in the UK.
Public Liability covers accidents or damages caused in the public domain (non-staff). Equipment Insurance protects against any loss through accident or theft that could impact your business.
When selecting insurance for your mobile bar, consider factors such as coverage amounts, premiums and customer service. With the right insurance policy in place, you can ensure that your business is safeguarded in any unforeseen circumstance.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can start a successful mobile bartending service that will be sure to turn heads! With the right foundation in place, you’ll soon find yourself mixing drinks at events across your town or city—all while making money doing something enjoyable!
FAQs
What is the standard mobile bar size?
Most mobile bars have a stainless steel work surface and contain an insulated sink/ice bin with drain, speed rail for liquor bottles and an area for glass rack storage in the base. These units come in various sizes and configurations, with average widths between 61 and 72 inches.
What are the strengths of a mobile bar?
The big advantage of a mobile bar is that it can be set up anywhere, so they are perfect for any type of event. They’re also great at saving space because they can be moved to the most convenient areas tucked away to enable guests to move freely and queue efficiently.
Is it easy to start a mobile bartending service?
Becoming a bartender isn’t an easy road. Beginning as a barback and learning from a mentor are two things you can do that require no experience. If you’re willing to learn and work hard, you’ll see your dream come true more quickly.
