Check Out Melissa Conklin’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Conklin.

Hi Melissa, 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.
Hi! My name is Melissa. Me & my wife are members of the LGBTQ+ community and the owners of Sweet Iris Mobile Beverage Service. Named after my grandma Iris “Gayle,” who passed away when I was 18 & has a very special place in my heart. We are from Virginia and moved to North Carolina with our 2 incredible boys 3 years ago. I have worked in real estate for the last 20 years, and my wife has worked in law enforcement and medically retired in 2022. 

We have always wanted to own our own business, so when the opportunity came up to convert a 1968 horse trailer into a mobile drink bar, we jumped on it! We offer many drink options fun for everyone. We serve community events with hot cocoa and fun kids’ drinks or adult-only options for weddings and private parties. 

Were built it from the rusty bones to bring our vision to life. This has been such a fun adventure traveling, connecting, and enjoying events as a family. From the actual construction of the bar to the decorations and drink menus, we have been able to create a whole experience for our clients. 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
This has definitely not been a smooth road. In 2022 My wife suffered 2 strokes and had to retire from her law enforcement career. After having a brain surgery we were not sure what was next in our lives. After time to heal and this opportunity, we have been able to redirect and put our energy into this “baby.” 

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
We love making events a whole vibe! We decorate the trailer, make a personalized menu, and try to create a special experience for each event. We love making our drinks fit the event, from fun kids’ drinks covered in candy to adult cocktails with over-the-top garnishments. 

We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you.
I would say our good luck outweighs the bad. Even the bad luck, we are able to find the silver lining and work through it as a family. 

Contact Info:

• Website: sweetirismobilebar.godaddysites.com
• Instagram: sweetirismobilebeverages
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SweetIrisMobileBar/