Meet Susan Knapp | Private mobile bartending and Mixology Classes

We had the good fortune of connecting with Susan Knapp and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Susan, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
One of the most fulfilling aspects of life, in my experience, is serving others in a way that also brings personal joy and purpose. For me, this journey began with food and has evolved into a rewarding career as a bartender. The challenges of this industry—both mentally and physically—are often overlooked, but the satisfaction I get from seeing clients’ excitement as they learn new skills in our hands-on Mixology classes makes it all worthwhile. In short, serving others is my love language, and that’s why I chose this path.

What should our readers know about your business?
Olive Mixology is a private mobile bartending service that offers a unique experience by bringing professional bartending and hands-on Mixology classes directly to our clients’ homes. We specialize in providing a fun, interactive way to celebrate events, bond with friends, or enjoy something different for date night. One of the key aspects that sets us apart from others is our dry hire model, which allows our clients to choose their own spirits and mixers, avoiding the expensive alcohol fees that come with traditional catering services. This approach not only makes our service more affordable but also gives our clients full control over their beverage selection.

I’m most proud of the impact we’ve made in turning what could be an ordinary event into an unforgettable experience. The joy we see on our clients’ faces as they learn new mixology skills during our hands-on classes is incredibly rewarding. This business started from a passion for food and the craft of bartending, and it has evolved into a fulfilling career that allows me to connect with others while doing something I love.

Getting to where we are today has certainly had its challenges. Like many entrepreneurs, I faced obstacles along the way, particularly in finding the right balance between managing the business and delivering a top-notch experience to clients. But I’ve learned the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and never losing sight of the passion that started it all. Each challenge has been a lesson in growth, from refining our services to understanding the true value of customer relationships which directly impacts custom service. What I want the world to know about Olive Mixology is that we’re not just about making great cocktails; we’re about creating memories and offering a personalized, hands-on experience that brings people together in a fun, meaningful way. Our story is one of dedication, creativity, and a deep love for the craft of mixology.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Memory updated
If my best friend were visiting Houston for a week, I’d make sure they experience the city’s vibrant culture, fantastic food scene, and unique attractions. Here’s how I’d plan the perfect itinerary:

Day 1 – Arrival and Dinner: We’d kick things off with dinner at La Fisheria, a Cuban-inspired restaurant located in Downtown Houston. The food is incredible, with flavors that are both bold and comforting—perfect for setting the tone for the week. Afterward, we’d head to One Armed Scissor Bar, a local hotspot for handcrafted and delicious cocktails. It’s a cool spot to unwind and dive into Houston’s nightlife.

Day 2 – Exploring Street Art and Culture: We’d start the day by taking a bicycle ride through the historic East End. This area is filled with amazing street art and murals, perfect for photo ops and soaking in the creativity of the city. We’d definitely stop and take in some delicious street tacos at Brothers while we’re there too! Afterward, we’d visit the Museum of Fine Arts, which is home to an impressive collection of art from across the world. It’s a great way to spend a few hours getting immersed in culture. For dinner we’d stop off at one of my favorite BBQ joints, The Pit Room for some delicious ribs and mac & cheese.

Day 3 – Shopping and Local Finds: We’d make our way to 19th Street, known for its eclectic mix of vintage shops, antique stores, and quirky boutiques. It’s a fun place to spend the afternoon hunting for unique finds and souvenirs. For dinner, I’d take my friend to one of the amazing local restaurants nearby to try more of Houston’s diverse culinary scene.

Day 4 – Rodeo Day (Seasonal): Depending on the time of year, we’d visit the Houston Rodeo, one of the city’s most exciting annual events. There’s always something for everyone—whether it’s the live concerts, rodeo competitions, or the delicious food booths. The rodeo is a true Texas experience and a must-do if the timing is right.

Day 5 – Relax and Unwind: After a few busy days, we’d take it easy and explore the local parks or grab a coffee at Bohemios, one of Houston’s many charming cafes. I’d recommend hitting up a local brewery, Eureka Heights, for a laid-back afternoon before heading out for a casual dinner at Ninfa’s, one of the best Mexican spots in the city.

Day 6 – Discovering the Outdoors: We’d take a trip to Buffalo Bayou Park to enjoy nature and take a leisurely stroll or paddle on the bayou. There are also bike rentals if we want to explore more of the scenic trails.

Day 7 – Farewell and Great Memories: For the last day, we’d grab brunch at a local favorite, St. Arnolds, then spend the afternoon reflecting on the week, grabbing last-minute souvenirs, and enjoying the city’s warm, welcoming atmosphere before my friend heads home.

Houston is a city full of surprises, and there’s always something new and exciting to explore. From incredible food and art to the charm of the local streets, it’s a place where every day can offer a fresh adventure.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to give a HUGE shout out to my best friend Savara, for telling me that it’s okay to be scared and it’s okay to fail as long as we get up and try it again and learn from our mistakes! It’s all about the journey and never about the destination! I love you Bera!!

Website: https://www.olivemixology.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olivemixologyllc/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569321209972

Image Credits
All of these photos were taking by me, Susan Knapp, and everyone gave consent to be publish.