Exploring Life & Business with Crystal Cotton of Boozique Mobile Bar

Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Cotton.

Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, how did you get started?
My bartending journey began over two decades ago, when I was just 18. What started as a way to make a decent living quickly transformed into a passion. Juggling bartending shifts with other jobs, I managed to fund my college education, all while continuing to bartend part-time even after graduation. My career in Detroit’s local nightlife scene has been a diverse one, with roles ranging from bar management to training and bar development, each contributing to my personal and professional growth.

In 2019, feeling the desire for independence and creative control, I decided to break away from traditional employment and establish my event bartending company. Equipped with two portable mobile bars, I launched my business and began promoting it. However, our momentum was abruptly halted by the onset of the pandemic in March 2020.

When the pandemic hit in 2020, it was a blow to our newly established business. But I refused to let it defeat us. Instead, I saw an opportunity to innovate. We introduced custom cocktail pouches for contactless delivery, understanding that the taste of our cocktails would be the best advertisement. This strategic move not only kept our business afloat but also attracted the attention of local news outlets, proving our resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.

As event venues began reopening, the demand for our services surged. We quickly became the go-to choice for bartending, with bookings stretching a year in advance and a growing waiting list. Today, Boozique has become a household name in Metro Detroit, solidified by our status as a copyrighted and trademarked company and featured appearances in numerous media outlets.

Building on our success, we are expanding our reach into other states and diversifying our services. Boozique now offers bar consulting, menu curation, staff training, and strategies to enhance profitability for bars and restaurants. Our journey from humble beginnings to regional prominence reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in the hospitality industry.

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
One of the significant hurdles and devastating setbacks Boozique has encountered was the theft of our Mobile Trailer. Our trailer housed two of our precious portable bars, along with all the equipment essential for servicing our events. This posed an immense challenge as, at the time of the theft, we were fully booked every single weekend, with each event requiring the complete mobile bar setup. I had to inform each client about the situation and quickly devise alternative arrangements, such as ordering tables to create makeshift bar setups. Despite the adversity, this experience was humbling and honed my ability to think on my feet.

Another ongoing challenge we face is the misconception surrounding liquor sales. Clients often inquire if we can sell liquor, unaware that there is no provision for liquor licenses for Mobile Bartending companies in Michigan. Instead, we operate as an open bar service. Clarifying this for customers who may need help understanding the regulatory process can be disappointing, but it’s an essential aspect of our business operations that we must navigate.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Boozique Mobile Bartending LLC is Metro Detroit’s premier Mobile Bar & Booze Boutique, boasting a seasoned Bartenders and Mixologists team. We prioritize exceptional customer service and hospitality, ensuring that every event with our open bar bartending services is an unforgettable experience. Renowned for our exquisite cocktails and mocktails, Boozique offers tailored expertise in craft cocktail creation, menu design, staff training, and operational efficiency. We bring a strategic approach to enhance our client’s unique identity, ensuring a competitive edge in the industry through improved customer experience and increased profitability.

As a trusted and well-known name, Boozique LLC is a regular feature on Fox 2 News and has garnered attention across various media platforms, reflecting our ongoing commitment to excellence. From humble beginnings to overcoming challenges and obstacles, I take immense pride in the journey that has led Boozique to its current stature. Our status as a copyrighted and trademarked company with the US Patent and Trademark Office underscores our dedication to innovation and brand protection.

Reflecting on the inception of this business, I am humbled by its growth and the team that supports it. Transitioning from my professional career to focus solely on Boozique was a daunting decision but one I made with conviction. Despite the challenges, this leap of faith has enabled me to fully dedicate myself to the business, nurturing its expansion into various ventures, including e-books, DIY kits, mixology classes, and branded merchandise. Collaborating with significant liquor companies and envisioning a brick-and-mortar establishment and consulting firm signify our ambitious future endeavors.

Boozique is not just a brand; it’s a testament to perseverance, creativity, and unwavering belief. I am excited about the endless possibilities as we continue to evolve and innovate, fueled by passion and determination. Together, we’re redefining the landscape of mobile bartending and beyond, one cocktail at a time.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
I’ve been a self-starter, a natural-born hustler from a young age. I recall fondly the days of my childhood when I’d embark on entrepreneurial endeavors, like creating Kool-Aid sugar bags to sell at school for 50 cents apiece. Even back then, I was in leadership positions, using my problem-solving skills to navigate challenges.

Money was never my primary motivation; instead, the thrill of turning an idea into reality drove me. Whether it was doing hair, selling candy, or organizing events, I was drawn to the process of envisioning something and bringing it to fruition. The satisfaction of seeing my efforts pay off, of realizing that I could take a simple thought and turn it into a successful venture, has been a guiding force throughout my life. It’s a mindset that has shaped my journey and continues to fuel my passion for entrepreneurship and innovation.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.booziquemobilebar.com/
• Instagram: @BOOZIQUEMOBILEBAR
• Facebook: FACEBOOK.COM/BOOZIQUE