Meet Rebekah Douglas of Graham

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rebekah Douglas

Hi Rebekah, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey into small business started in the restaurant industry. Like many young workers, I began as a server – but naturally gravitated to the bar as I got older and more experienced. I loved interacting with customers on a deeper level, but loved crafting drinks even more. I learned about wine, beer and mixology over several years behind the horseshoe and gained a level of passion and appreciation for all things mixology. In 2014, I had a friend ask if I’d be willing to tend their wedding bar. With no hesitation, I agreed, and so began a new era of business for me. Shortly after that event, I got further certified and insured my new business, “Jewel of the South” – Event Bartending Services. Since then, I’ve had the pleasure of participating in hundreds of weddings, birthdays and social events.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
You know, in every line of work, you encounter some struggles. But I’ve always loved the saying “Smooth seas never made a good sailor” and it’s so true! We need to face some adversity so we can become our best selves. One of the biggest bumps in the road for me was Covid. For several years, NO one was getting married or having social events. It essentially tanked my business. I switched gears during this time and became a delivery driver for Instacart to survive, but I never left my business behind. Once the economy opened back up, it was right back into full time work!

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
These are great questions. What sets me apart from others? This was a question I asked myself when I first started my business. How can I distinguish myself from the 100’s of other mobile bartending businesses out there?

For me, it came down to two things.
Being knowledgeable and having a spirit of helpfulness.

I became eager to help everyone, even if they weren’t my client. I worked diligently to learn and understand wine, beer and craft drinks. I spent hours studying North Carolina’s very complex alcohol laws to ensure my clients were in compliance. I also stood out to many customers because of the special care I take when mixing cocktails, always seeking balance and beauty in everything I do. Lastly, I’ve never had a spirit of competition, but instead, of cooperation. I’ve mentored many new bartenders in the industry and continue to help other businesses thrive by sending referrals anytime I am unable to attend an event.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I’ve always been an incurable optimist! Since childhood, I never minded taking center stage, participating in dance recitals, plays and choirs since I can remember. As a young adult, I became passionate about cooking, canning and gardening. All of this played into my bartending career as I’m constantly entertaining guests or making my own syrups and juices for cocktails.

Pricing:

• Prices for events start at $250
• Prices for handmade syrups start at $8

Contact Info:

• Website: https://TheBash.com/Bartender/RebekahDouglas
• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/JotsMobileBar
• Facebook: https://Facebook.com/JotsMobileBar