Meet Cassie Lopez: The Wandering Wagon A Mobile Bar Co.

We had the good fortune of connecting with Cassie Lopez and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Cassie, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My dad owned a restaurant so I grew up in the service industry. My first job was working for him as a cashier. Not only did I learn a ton about the service industry, but I also saw firsthand what it really means to own a small business, We lost my dad to cancer 5 years ago and he is definitely my inspiration, boy do I wish he could see me now. I am currently a teacher and I absolutely love it but I know that it is not my forever. I love craft cocktails, being a part of the fun, and going above and beyond for people. I knew I wanted to bartend weddings and events while bringing something super unique to them. Bartenders are often the only vendor that interact with everyone so I wanted to create an experience for every guest. I saw that horse trailer bars were becoming popular in other parts of the country and I knew I had to do it. I have a horse and I just thought it was the cutest idea ever. I love that my business connects to so many personal parts of my life as it is easy to stay passionate and focused even when things are difficult or overwhelming.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I own a mobile bartending company based in Denver. We currently have a bar made out of a horse trailer and are in the midst of building another out of a 1969 Shasta camper. We create a memorable experience for our clients and their guests at weddings, corporate events, birthday parties, or any private event. We are all about keeping things local, fresh, and sustainable. We have a new garden to glass menu for 2021 that will feature local products from Colorado farms. We will make all of the simple syrups and shrubs in house and because we always use fresh ingredients our menu is seasonal. Our clients are invited to a complimentary cocktail tasting so they can elect the cocktail that is perfect for their event and so that I can get to know them better. I got where I am today by networking with vendors, constantly reflecting on ways I can improve, and by working with some amazing mentors. I am a teacher and own another business so this has been anything but easy, but it really is so rewarding. I am very busy and am still working on time management, especially while facing the toughest year teaching due to the pandemic. I have learned to just keep on moving forward and to trust that hard work does pay off. I put so much into my business and was starting to feel like it was never going to take off and then suddenly BAM. I was booking back to back events, double booking weekends, and starting to get recognized by other vendors in my industry. My advice to anyone starting their business is to be open to feedback and to do at least one thing everyday that moves your business forward.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When people come to visit I love taking them to Mount Evans. It’s incredible that you can see such beautiful views and wildlife in such a short time. Choosing some views that you can drive to is great for people who aren’t accustomed to the altitude. I would take them to Improper City for a hibiscus margarita and whatever local food truck was there for lunch. For dinner I would definitely take them to Root Down, hands down best meal I’ve had in Denver!
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Loni Peterson with LP Creative Events in amazing. She is a professor for students that want to become event planners and is an event planner herself. She welcomed me and so many newbies into the wedding industry by being so supportive and helpful. Loni always goes above and beyond for her clients.
Website: wanderingwagonbars.com
Instagram: @wanderingwagonbars
Facebook: @wanderingwagonbars
Image Credits
Ashlee Crowden Photo Kari Joy Kuschel Stori H Photo Caits Photo K Mitiska Photography