Top 5 Tips to Launch a Successful Mobile Cocktail Class Business

Yesterday, I was watching a business news segment discussing innovative small business ideas, and one concept stood out: 

Starting a mobile cocktail class business: 

The next day, I read an article in Entrepreneur about two young women who had already launched such a business and were earning a significant income from it.

Their success story, featuring Jess Blakley and Willow Sprague, who even caught the attention of the Shark Tank investors, convinced me that this is a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested in the cocktail industry. 

You can check out their business here: BarBees Bartending. 

In this article, I want to share the top strategies for starting a successful mobile cocktail class business. 

If you implement these strategies, success is within your reach.

1. Attend Bartending School

Developing bartending skills is crucial for launching a successful mobile bartending cocktail business. 

Attending bartending school will teach you how to become a professional bartender, use and manage bartending tools, select the right ice for cocktails, and create cocktail recipes. 

With these skills, you'll gain the confidence needed to start your own business. 

However, to achieve greater success, you'll need to incorporate additional strategies, which we'll discuss below.

2. Use Instagram

Instagram is a powerful tool for promoting your local business. Use it to connect with people in your area. 

For instance, if you live in Orange County, find local events, reach out to them, and mention them on Instagram.

This will help you build strong connections and gain insights into the industry.

Look for events like weddings, birthdays, company parties, family get-togethers, and other social gatherings. 

This approach significantly contributed to the success of Jess Blakley and Willow Sprague's mobile cocktail business.

3. Use a CRM System

As you start acquiring clients, it's essential to manage them effectively and build a robust customer management cycle. 

A Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tool can help you:

• Send invoices

• Sign contracts

• Book and schedule meetings

• Automate workflows

• Track inquiries

• Manage projects

• Accept online payments

A CRM system is vital for streamlining your operations and significantly enhancing your mobile business.

4. Higher a Digital PR Agency

Once your business starts generating substantial income, consider hiring a digital PR agency to expand your reach. 

A good PR campaign can boost your business's visibility, potentially leading to exciting opportunities like an invitation to pitch your business on Shark Tank for additional funding.

5. Partner with Someone You Trust

To expand into other regions, consider partnering with a trusted friend.

Growing your business requires assistance with logistics and navigating various activities, and having a reliable partner can help you scale quickly and efficiently.

6. Define Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

Every successful business starts with a clear USP that sets it apart from competitors.

For Jess Blakley and Willow Sprague, their mobile cocktail class business, Go Bar Bees, differentiated itself by offering personalized mixology experiences directly to clients' locations.

Define what makes your mobile cocktail class unique—whether it's customizable themes, specialty drinks, or a particular demographic niche.

7. Perfect Your Craft and Curriculum

A crucial element of launching a mobile cocktail class business is ensuring your team possesses expert mixology skills.

Jess and Willow invested in refining their craft, creating a curriculum that blends education with entertainment.

Develop engaging lesson plans that cater to both beginners and cocktail enthusiasts, ensuring participants leave not only with new skills but also with a memorable experience.

8. Build a Strong Online Presence

In the digital age, a robust online presence is essential for visibility and client acquisition.

Establish a professional website that highlights your services, testimonials, and booking options.

Leverage social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase your events, share cocktail recipes, and engage with potential customers.

Highlighting client success stories and event photos can also build credibility and attract new business.

9. Foster Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations

Networking and partnerships play a pivotal role in scaling a mobile cocktail class business.

Jess and Willow leveraged collaborations with local event planners, corporate clients, and even popular television shows like Shark Tank to expand their reach.

Identify potential partners—such as event venues, catering companies, or liquor brands—that align with your brand's values and target audience.

Collaborative efforts can amplify your business's visibility and credibility in the market.

10. Provide Exceptional Customer Experiences

Delivering exceptional customer experiences is key to sustaining and growing your mobile cocktail class business.

From initial inquiry to post-event follow-up, prioritize customer satisfaction at every touchpoint.

Personalize experiences based on client preferences, offer flexibility in scheduling, and continuously seek feedback to refine your services.

Building a reputation for professionalism, creativity, and hospitality will foster repeat business and positive word-of-mouth referrals.

Over to You

The strategies may seem few, but I assure you that implementing them will help your business grow and become profitable. 

This business idea faces little competition and enjoys high demand.

Let me know your thoughts in the comment box below.