Today we’d like to introduce you to Shamika Johnson.
Hi Shamika, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
A trip to the movies in 2017, LOL! My son was graduating from elementary school, and around this time some movie theaters were adding bars. I was intrigued, so I asked to speak with the manager. The manager informed me they were hiring, no experience needed and they would train in-house….2 weeks later, I became a certified bartender.
I stayed with them for 1 year. I was ready for a more fast-paced environment and more money. In this world of social media, one day as I was scrolling I came across a hiring ad for a popular bar/lounge in West Baltimore County. I was hired on the spot!! This was waaaaaay different from the movie theater. It was very challenging in the beginning, however, once I gained more confidence, I started to build a clientele that would faithfully come to visit weekly.
In September 2018 I met another bartender and we began chatting about her mobile bartending services. Once again I was intrigued and I wanted to learn more. We exchanged numbers and one month later I worked my 1st mobile bartending event and I fell in love. For about a year, I worked both the mobile services and the lounge on top of my full-time job in Healthcare administration……And then came COVID…..
When the world opened again the bar/lounge scene had drastically changed and business was very slow. While trying to figure out how to make extra money, my friends suggested I start my mobile bartending service. In the beginning, I was very hesitant and fearful…I didn’t know anything about starting a business. So I did my research and in March 2021, I took a leap of faith, and Vibez Mobile Bartending Services was created. Over the last almost 3 years I have met some amazing people and repeat clients.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Starting this business and having the opportunity to network with so many wonderful people has been amazing. Not just connecting with those that have hired us, but also with their guest. Not only have we been rehired by past customers, but their guests have reached out and booked us for events as well. We make sure that each guest is taken care of as though they were our family or close friends and this theory has made every event a success.
We have been allowed to be in the places never could have imagined. We have worked with other mobile bartending companies on large projects and plan to continue working with these companies to expand our business opportunities. Starting this business has also had some challenges. Running a business costs money, and takes a lot of discipline and patience. Right now, marketing is our biggest challenge. Websites, referral agencies, and running ads on social media require a substantial amount of money to keep the business relevant.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Why should customers hire Vibez’ MBS? Quality!! My company is built on customer satisfaction. Established in 2021, Vibez’ Mobile Bartending Service was created to take the worry out of making an event great!! Never cutting corners, from crafting unique signature cocktails to providing the ultimate bar experience, we take our time to make sure our customers are 100% satisfied. We currently provide bartender services for wedding receptions, private parties, and corporate events.
Looking for a fun activity for a family or friends gathering, we offer 90-minute mixology classes. This class teaches the client and their guests how to create 3 cocktails all while playing games and having an all-around good time. Don’t drink alcohol, we also offer services for mocktail drinkers! What sets Vibez’ apart from the rest is we work with clients from all walks of life and their budgets. We are not in this business just to make money we also want our clients and their guests to have an experience they will never forget!
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson I’ve learned so far is not to be afraid. I questioned my abilities and what I was capable of for a long time.
Stepping out on faith and just filing for an LLC was the most terrifying thing ever, but I decided to cast my fears aside and step out on faith. I regret nothing and look forward to all the wonderful opportunities that are coming my way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://vibez-mobile-bartending-service.square.site
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/vibez_mbs/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vibezmbs/
- Linkedin: www.LinkedIn.com/in/Shamika-Johnson-b263086a
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Vibez+Mobile+Bartending+Service&find_loc=Baltimore%2C+MD+21202
Image Credits
Samantha D. Photography (www.samanthadphoto.com – @samanthadphoto.com)
