Bartender’s Guide: How To Start A Bartender Business

Whether you are currently a bartender or work in a bar/restaurant or have only dreamed of becoming a bartender, starting your own business. Being a waiter at weddings and private parties is much easier than you might imagine.

With minimal start-up capital, lucrative results, and a fun and exciting environment, it’s no wonder being a mixologist is a great fit. Whether you’re looking for an extra side income or a full-time career change, the exciting world of Mobile Bartending offers you endless possibilities.

Below is a list of simplified steps to get you and your business started today:

Learn to bartend:

Forget the $500 Bartending School or the 10-pound book of 7,000 recipes, your guests won’t order more than 50 drinks at special events. It’s much easier than you think to learn how to bartend, but it should be the first step you take before building your business.

Define your services:

Writing a small business plan will always help you gather ideas for marketing and structuring your services. You need to ask yourself what your services include and how much you are going to charge. Visualize yourself going through each step with a new client. How do you answer the phone, what kind of questions will they have for you, can you answer those questions? Do you provide a portable bar or bartending tools? What are your policies and guarantees?

Shop your bartending tools:

Before showing up to your first event, your client will expect some of the following: Martini Shaker, Bottle Opener/Wine Key, Ice Scoop, Coolers, Bar Towels and more. You will want to consider purchasing a portable bar, as well as other optional equipment: garnish tray, salt froster, bar mat, and quick pourers.

Promote yourself:

You should make your name known and tell your friends and family what services you offer. Start by making business cards, and then give them out to friends and family. Once you get your first event, you’re bound to find other guests in need of a bartender, so promote your services at your bar!

Proper marketing of your bartending services is the key ingredient to getting the best parties and charging premium prices.

Take it to the Web:

Having your own virtual storefront with images and compelling copy is an extremely valuable asset for any business owner. You can have a simple 5 page website built for you through Elance.com for less than $200.00. Be sure to include your contact information, details about your services, and photos.

Expand:

The options to expand your business and generate more income are endless. Can you advertise in other areas, hire more bartenders, offer a full line of servers, DJs, and glassware rental?

After landing your first Bartending gig, you’ll quickly realize how fun and exciting the life of an Independent Bartender is. You get paid to get people drunk and the best part is that you are your own boss!