Today we’d like to introduce you to Christina (Chrissy Mat) Mathews.
Hi Chrissy, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born in Portsmouth, VA and now based in St. Louis, I began my career as a waitress at Barcode Bar & Grill right in Saint Ann, where my passion for bartending was ignited. Under the guidance of a seasoned mentor, I honed my skills in mixology and the art of creating exceptional drinks. I honestly started bartending just because it was great money! Plus, being a new mother to my daughter Mariyah, I needed all the additional financial help.
Over the years, recognizing that bartending is more than just mixing beverages, I delved into extensive training and gained invaluable experience. My commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences has earned me the prestigious STL Award Bartender of the Year in 2023. To even be nominated and up against great talent was definitely an honor. I love being creative! I do have a singing background as well so I picked up the name the “Singing Bartender” also. Just having fun behind the bar, being creative with my customers they would follow me no matter what club or bar I worked.
In June 2023, I took a huge step towards fulfilling my dream by launching my own business alongside my business partner. I named my business Pretty Girl Cocktail Bar Services. At this time, I decided to retire from working in bars/clubs to focus on my business and my daughter Mariyah. I am dedicated to providing clients with unparalleled service and memorable experiences. My expertise and dedication continue to make a significant impact in the St. Louis bar scene.
My drive to do all of this and be dedicated across the board is all for my daughter Mariyah Elaine. In midst of these years, my daughter was diagnosed with autism as well. I never let that stop me. Everything I do is to show my baby girl you can be successful in any and everything you do! And to put God first all the time!
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 been the hardest thing to do by far. It’s a lot of mobile bartenders in Saint Louis. Some look at this business and industry as a competition. So it’s always who’s the best of the best, the cattiness, the remarks that some make about you and other Black women in the industry make it harder. You have to rise above the negativity! I choose to support other Black women in the same industry because it’s the right thing to do. You may be able to help that next person out to fulfill their dreams. This has not been a smooth road. Whoever said entrepreneurship is easy, they are not being honest. It’s constant promoting your brand, networking everywhere you go! I was always afraid to meet and network with strangers. Now I walk in a room with confidence and walk with grace! I definitely make my presence known.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Pretty Girl Cocktail & Bar Services ?
I started my business in the summer of 2023 with my business partner Terrance Brafford. We cater to all events, birthday parties, wedding receptions, birthday parties, any special event, we cater to it. We love coming up with creative specialty cocktails for each event. I’m known for my creativity and my loud bold cocktails. One thing I love to do is practice making the drinks to make sure it is perfect! I never use the same drink twice that I’ve made for any previous events! I have some great friends in the same industry and we love bouncing ideas off each other!
Brand wise I’m proud of myself for coming up with the name of my business. In the beginning phase I rushed through the process of just needing something quick for a logo, quick for a brand. I never sat down and took time to understand the business. Now, that I have taken time out to research, learn, and build my business I’ve recently been able to rebrand and relaunch my business and I love how chic and elegant my current logo is and where my business is going!
I offer quality services for all of my client’s special event. I tell all my clients my job is make sure you are happy and make sure your guests are happy. I provide everything. If there is a theme or color scheme I love to decorate my bar according to theme or colors. My services based according to my clients needs and also if you have budget as well. My goal is to start booking corporate events by Spring of 2025!
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
You have to LOVE your craft! Loving what you do makes it all worth it! Most importantly, listening to your client’s and potential client’s needs and wants for their special day. I love doing small gift items to my client’s to show them my appreciation for trusting me. I believe this is what keeps me successful.
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