At Fairy Godmother Events, we love shining a spotlight on talented professionals who make weddings and celebrations truly magical. Today, we’re excited to introduce you to Julio, the founder of SoCal Bartenders & Servers Inc. His journey from bartending in Los Angeles to building a thriving company is inspiring—and his passion for creating unforgettable experiences is evident in every event.
TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF AND HOW YOU GOT STARTED BARTENDING
Hello everyone, my name is Julio. I was born in Tijuana, Mexico, and grew up in a small agricultural town of about 12,000 residents in Mendota, California (Fresno County). In 2016, I moved to Los Angeles County for a job transfer and began working at a bar on the weekends.
One evening, a client asked if I could bartend a private event. I told her, “I’ve never done it, but I can definitely do it.” A few months later, the bar I was working at was sold, and I decided it was time for a change. That’s when I realized I could bartend and serve food at private events on weekends. I booked my first few events and began building what is now SoCal Bartenders & Servers Inc.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START SOCAL BARTENDING? HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE WEDDING AND EVENT INDUSTRY?
We officially launched in August 2019 and quickly discovered that weddings were our most popular bookings. Now, six years later, we’re thrilled with the growth and strength of the company.
My biggest inspiration is seeing the joy on our clients’ faces. Having worked in customer service my entire life, I also realized how rare it has become to find exceptional service. That’s why we strive to deliver the kind of service we’d want for ourselves.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BARTENDING WEDDINGS AND EVENTS?
Weddings are such meaningful, once-in-a-lifetime celebrations. You only have one chance to make them unforgettable, and I love being part of that responsibility. The happiness of the couple and their families makes the energy incredible, and I also thrive on the adrenaline of bringing everything together.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE MEMORY FROM WORKING A WEDDING?
We’ve met amazing couples who have become dear friends. Looking back, it’s incredible to see how those relationships began. Many of our clients invite us back for baby showers, baptisms, and family milestones. Being part of those journeys is one of the greatest rewards of this work.
HOW DO YOU KEEP THE BAR FUN AND ENGAGING FOR GUESTS THROUGHOUT THE NIGHT?
I’ve always been outgoing and love making friends, and I bring that same spirit to every event. Guests may forget some details about a wedding, but they’ll never forget how much fun they had. That’s why I build a team of staff who share that same goal of creating lively, enjoyable experiences.
DO YOU HAVE A SIGNATURE COCKTAIL OR DRINK CREATION YOU’RE KNOWN FOR?
Yes! Our two most popular cocktails are the Mexican Candy Cocktail and the Paloma. Both are refreshing, authentic, and have just the right kick of spice—perfect for couples who want drinks that stand out.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE COUPLES WHEN PLANNING THEIR BAR MENU FOR THEIR WEDDING?
Start with your favorite cocktail and add in some guest favorites. Keep it simple, delicious, and classy—and make sure your selections fit the season or weather.
ANY TIPS FOR COUPLES WHO WANT TO INCLUDE SOMETHING UNIQUE OR PERSONALIZED WITH THEIR BAR SERVICE?
Definitely! Have fun with your menu. Personalize it with family names, pet names, favorite destinations, or meaningful places. It’s also a beautiful idea to honor loved ones who are no longer here by including them in your menu—it keeps their spirit close on your special day.
WHAT’S ONE THING MOST PEOPLE DON’T REALIZE ABOUT BARTENDING AT WEDDINGS?
There’s a lot of behind-the-scenes planning and physical effort involved in setting up every event—it’s much more than pouring drinks. Another surprise is how many “non-drinkers” end up trying and loving our cocktails for the first time at weddings!
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT WORKING WITH OUR TEAM?
We love working with Fairy Godmother Events because of the organization, professionalism, and heart your team brings. You always put clients first, solve problems with grace, and bring personality and charisma to every wedding. Fairy Godmother truly checks all the boxes!
WHERE CAN COUPLES LEARN MORE ABOUT YOU AND SOCAL BARTENDING?
The best place to see our work is on Instagram: @SoCal_Bartenders_Servers
For quotes and more information, visit: www.mysocalbartenders.com
