Meet Joanna Suazo | TABC Certified/Mixology | Head Bartender

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

Hi Joanna, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
After working a few years behind the bar during college, I developed a passion and enthusiasm with crafting cocktails. I also developed an interest on learning about the specific steps to make a spirit, wine, or beer which made me appreciate the product even more. And have the chance to share that info with customers. Learning the extra information about the product entailed for me to better pick certain ingredients to create one of a kind cocktails – similar to cooking a meal which is another hobby of mine! I’d spend time behind the bar experimenting and creating a handful of cocktails; my only limitation was how to share my recipes. For awhile I kept wondering how could I share my enthusiasm and offer custom cocktails for customers to enjoy – this resulted on the idea to open a mobile bartending business.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Whether it’s a small gathering or business event, Its JoJo assists with professional and one of a kind bar service! Our customers provide the alcohol, mixers, ice, and cups and we take care of the rest. With over 4 years of experience in the industry, Its JoJo has a passion and enthusiasm when it comes to cocktail making and working the bar. We offer services in Houston, TX and surrounding areas. I care about our customers and there’s nothing more important to me than executing a successful bar experience. We work closely with our customers to meet their expectations, consult recommendations on the quantity needed, and collaborate when custom drinks are requested.

It has been quite a rocky road to have reached where I am today business-wise and it’s still a learning process as I continue to grow. Balancing personal and professional life is always a challenge. Having to work late nights or early mornings. Being under lots of stress to meet deadlines or making time to work on projects, finances are just a few of the challenges I’ve encountered. There were times where the negative energy would overwhelm me to my breaking point and I would need to reset and refocus. I’d take a step back and meditate on all the positives; then take a deep breath and slowly get myself back on track.

I’ve learned many lessons on my journey especially on the financial aspect rather be more money smart. I began to find new methods on how to be more money conscious when spending on supplies or particular equipment needed for certain events. Along with doing the needed research to charge within reason that is beneficial for both myself and the customer.

The accomplishments I’ve reached with my business didn’t come easy as if served on a silver platter. Going through ups and downs pushed me towards doing better and bigger things for Its JoJo. One true thing that separates us is treating our clients and their guests as if they were our own family – making small talk or simply listening. We take pride and feel proud when customers provide positive feedback during and after our events.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Where to begin! Personally I’m a huge foodie and love visiting local distilleries or breweries. Galveston would be a definite place to visit…I mean who doesn’t love the beach! The city is full of history. Texas Tail Distillery is a must stop offering a selection of spirits such as vodka and whiskey – their flavored moonshine is the best. Galveston Island Brewing offers a vast selection of beers that are delicious and the atmosphere is very laidback. Food wise, that is a tough because there are so many great restaurants. I would recommend The Gumbo Bar – they are famous for their po’boys and gumbo of course – The Big Daddy gumbo is my usual order it contains fresh crab meat, shrimp, prime rib, chicken, and sausage (my mouth is watering already). Shrimp N Stuff is another great place for food, family owned and have an array of fried seafood plates. Taking a tour of the historic houses is lots of fun – it gives insight on the development on the city of Galveston and the houses are grand. Galveston is known to have haunted areas. The Haunted Tour is another fun place to visit. The tour guide takes you to different places around the town explaining ghost encounters and stories behind the haunted areas. The Strand is also a great place to stop – it’s a mini Bourbon St containing small shops and bars perfect to take a walk. Lastly taking a swim at the beach or visiting on of the fishing piers for fishing would be a stop.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My family and friends are my backbone to my successes in life. They have always kept me going and never allowed for me to give up even during the most difficult times. My son Jonas (my miracle blessing as I call him) is especially my motivator and inspiration to fight for my goals.

Instagram: itsjojo_bartending

Facebook: Its JoJo, LLC