Today we’d like to introduce you to Rakia
Hi Rakia, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
It all started with a simple conversation in 2018. I had always respected my eldest sister’s opinion more than my own. She was my guiding star, she called me her “mini me.” I wanted her thoughts on something important: bartending. It had been on my mind for a while, but I didn’t know if it was the right path. So, I brought it up to her. Without hesitation, she supported me. “Go for it,” she said, her voice filled with that steady, unwavering confidence that I’d always looked up to. That moment was everything. It felt like a sign.
Then, in 2019, tragedy struck. My sister passed away, leaving a hole in my heart and a void in my world. But I carried her belief with me, holding onto the encouragement she’d given me. I knew I had to make this dream happen for both of us.
After months of research and reflection, I decided it was time to take the leap. I enrolled in bartending school. The next few weeks were a blur of sleepless nights, studying tirelessly while working full-time during the day. I pushed myself to the limit, and fell ill from exhaustion, but the thought of achieving something I truly wanted kept me going. It paid off—when I passed my final exam, I topped my class. I was ecstatic, finally feeling like I was on the right track.
But the excitement didn’t last long. For nearly a year, I was lost, unsure of where to go next. I had this knowledge, this skill, but what was I supposed to do with it? That question lingered, nagging at me. Then one day, during a family trip, it hit me: I didn’t want to work for someone else. I wanted to be my own boss. The idea of being a mobile bartender—bringing the bar to people, creating experiences—felt so right. I was ready to take that next step.
But then another hurdle. A name. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t think of the perfect one. I asked everyone I knew, but nothing seemed to click. The search for a name became its own roadblock, delaying me even longer. I felt like I was almost there but kept running into walls.
Then, one day, it all fell into place. I was bartending for a friend, Mike from MyxxMasters, when my coworker Dee asked me, “What’s your nickname?” One of many that I ended up telling was KiKi. Without missing a beat, she said, “ You don’t like Bar KiKi?” I LOVED IT! It was memorable, it was me, and it felt like everything finally clicked.
Two months later, on June 24th, 2024, Bar KiKi LLC was officially born. I had done it. I had taken every step, through every challenge, every doubt, and finally arrived. It was more than just a business—it was a tribute to my sister’s unwavering belief in me, a celebration of every late night, every moment of uncertainty, and every ounce of hard work. Bar KiKi wasn’t just a name. It was a dream realized.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been easy but honestly the less I worry and the more action I take, It is not as hard as it seems. I overcame the struggles I mentioned and I will overcome those that I have not encountered yet.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
BAR KIKI Mobile is a dry hire mobile bartending business dedicated to providing quality service. Whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, or private party, we provide top-notch bartending services tailored to your needs.
What sets Bar KiKi apart is the personal and custom experience. We will tailor each experience to the client and be there every step of the way. Your event is just as important to us as it is to you. Some services include: custom drink menus, signature cocktails, and private mixology lessons.
Follow @barkikimobile on all platforms to connect & inquire —we can’t wait to serve you with a smile!
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
The apps these days are so resourceful! TikTok, Instagram, and Google are my top three. I encourage anyone who is inspired to start their next endeavor to start researching on these apps. The knowledge to be gained is endless!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barkikimobile/#
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561484782897&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=UAJDKcEQMSENwJES&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F1BthPjEet6%2F%3Fmibextid%3DwwXIfr
- Other: https://blinq.me/YUvRhHvVNSXdl7r1GdYQ?u=_r6cM9c0
Image Credits
Quanijah Aliyah
