Meet the woman who converted a trailer into a prosecco-filled vino van

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Meet the woman who converted a trailer into a prosecco-filled vino van

By Sarah Biddlecombe

8 years ago

There’s nothing better than when the words “prosecco” and “bar” come together – particularly when said prosecco bar is fully transportable and available to serve chilled bubbles anytime, anywhere.

This was the genius thinking behind entrepreneur Siobhan Holmes’ decision to convert an old horse box into a fully functional prosecco bar, brilliantly named the Vino Van.

Speaking to Stylist.co.uk, Holmes, 29, said she was keen to offer a service that could “bring the bubbles to the party” – even if that party is in the middle of a field.

“It's not difficult to be passionate about prosecco,” she added. “I wanted to be part of something that's ultimately joyful: to make events really special, and there's nothing more special than your own private bar with bubbles on tap.”

Holmes said the idea for the van was born when she realised there was a gap in the market for a drinks pop up that offered only prosecco, a surefire win for events such as weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and other celebrations.

And once she had the idea, it took her less than a month to buy and convert the trailer, which she completed on 3 February in order for the service to be ready for spring.

Detailing the “serious renovation” it took to transform the old horse box (below), Holmes said she hired local trades people to re-do the floor, build the bar and install electrics and lights. She then painted the box, added her logo and it was good to go.

Alongside the renovation, Holmes completed an alcohol license course, as well as undertaking the difficult task of choosing which fizz to serve in the van.

“We spent a great deal of time choosing the right wine,” she said. “After extensive taste testing – that was a tough day at the office – we opted for Glera Frizzante. We serve our wine from a cask which means we can keep it at the optimum temperature and it won't lose its fizz. 

“It also travels well too, which is essential for a mobile bar.”

The Vino Van is equipped to be set up for business almost anywhere, with Holmes offering a set package that starts at £600 as well as a bespoke service that can be individually tailored for more specific events.

She will also be offering a “pimp your prosecco” service where people can add fruit garnishes or mixers, as well as including an option for customers to order a signature prosecco cocktail.

We won’t have to wait long to see the van in action, with Holmes saying that trading will begin in April, and bookings already being made through her Facebook page.

“Being instrumental in people's celebrations is a really enjoyable and rewarding way to make a living,” Holmes added. 

We couldn’t agree more.

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