Today we’d like to introduce you to Nene Sheppard.
Hi Nene, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey began when I was helping a classmate with a local restaurant. She was in need of a bartender, and I realized that I took pleasure in making people happy through creative means. So, I thought, why not? I began bartending part-time at that restaurant and subsequently decided to pursue the necessary courses to acquire the certifications and credentials needed to become a certified bartender. From that point, the “blessing” truly came to me. Eventually, I parted ways with the restaurant and launched my own mobile bartending service. Additionally, I partnered with Bottles Up Enterprises, LLC to assist with their mobile bartending service requirements. Due to my passion for my business and for crafting cocktails, I have attracted numerous clients over the past few years. Being a mobile bartender has evolved into an excellent opportunity to engage with clients while infusing creativity and joy into every event.
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?
Indeed. Every business faces challenges. Achieving success and managing a profitable enterprise is never entirely effortless. I have encountered numerous hurdles throughout my journey. Support from individuals I expected to motivate me towards excellence has been scarce, alongside competition from other bartenders, a lack of marketing opportunities, and periods of inactivity due to unplanned events. Nevertheless, I refused to allow these setbacks to deter me. I transformed the obstacles I faced into stepping stones for my achievements, and HERE I AM. My name, “NENE THE BARTENDER BABE, LLC,” resonates in various circles, and my business thrives remarkably.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I run a very successful mobile bartender service in Jacksonville, Florida, and surrounding areas. I am known for my creative cocktails, that will surely sweep you off your feet. They call me “the queen of cocktails.” I am most proud of myself because I used the things that were set to be used against me, to succeed in such a competitive field. My logo was re-created by a local business owner (El Diesel) as a blessing to me. The “red lips” symbolize my late grandmother Eunice, who often remarked that women sporting red lips exemplified confidence and bravery. The “rose” represents my late granny, Rose. Together, I know they both would be extremely proud of the small business that I’ve blossomed. Whenever you observe me in my element, I will be adorned with my “red lips” and a confident smile.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I continue to feel anxious when participating in events; nevertheless, I persevere and bring joy to my clients. I ensure to pray before any event I am contracted for in order to alleviate the “bartending jitters.”
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nene_the_bar_babe
- Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nenethebb247
