The Hustle
Years in Tampa Bay
5
Hustle (job)
Boss Lady at Wine On Wheels.
What do you do?
Wine On Wheels is a unique business housed in a vintage 1962 Airstream trailer that has been transformed into a one-of-a-kind rentable beverage service that travels to customers, making their shindigs special and memorable. The Wine On Wheels Airstream opens to reveal a full-service bar. It’s a self-contained, retro experience for weddings, tailgating, block parties, corporate events and to birthday parties. You provide the alcohol for your private party, but W.O.W. will provide the “cool.” And W.O.W provides the perfect setting for a sophisticated coffee/dessert bar, bridal brunch or small buffet.
Basically, you decide what’s served and our shiny Airstream is the perfect backdrop. W.O.W. is up for anything. We can supply the whole set up, including bar stools, lighting, pub tables, decor, seating and lawn games to further customize an event.
Why do you do it?
My background was in advertising, marketing and sales. I left the corporate world in 2010 to pursue an independent distributorship with a multi-level marketing company. I had one other company before that, and I decided that being on my own and being independent was the only way to be. I got a taste of the freedom and I could never go back to a traditional job.
What was your Catalyst? (How did you get started?)
Originally I saw joke on Facebook, that was regarding having the equivalent of an ice cream truck, but more suited for adults, a wine truck. My friends and I would joke about it and finally after a couple years of thinking about it, I thought why not make it happen! After my mom passed away a year and a half ago, I felt like I had an epiphany to make my vision come to fruition.
I had worked in restaurants and bars for 25+ years to supplement income, along with other jobs through college and beyond. So I felt like I had a lot of experience working with events, and the food and beverage industry. But instead of going to the bar, I thought how fun would it be to bring the bar to the party and create a memorable experience.
What’s a common misconception or unknown aspect of what you do?
Currently in the state of Florida you cannot be mobile with alcohol, or have a liquor license attached to a mobile truck (that is if you do not have food involved or a catering license).
We have to be hired for a private event to be able to serve alcohol. Typically when we are rented for a public event, we are serving a complementary beverage, sampling product and or attached to a non-profit for a fundraiser.
What’s the most challenging part of your Hustle?
Success is balancing all that life offers you well.
What’s the most valuable piece of business advice/insight that’s helped you?
Keep a laser beam focus on your vision as to why you started your company or dream. There will be setbacks, and you have to keep grounded to your “why.” I’m intrigued by what makes entrepreneurs tick. So talking to as many people who own businesses, whether they are similar to what you are doing or not, is very helpful in guiding you on your journey.
