Today we’d like to introduce you to Amber Basilone.
Hi Amber, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey in hospitality started when I was 14 years old, and ever since then I’ve fallen in love with creating experiences that bring people together. Over the years, I worked in various hospitality roles, eventually becoming a bartender, where I discovered my passion for not only crafting cocktails but also creating memorable moments for guests.
In 2024, I launched my mobile bartending company, Spirits of Wanderlust, with the goal of bringing elevated bar experiences directly to clients throughout South Florida. What started as a passion project quickly grew into a business serving weddings, corporate events, wellness gatherings, private celebrations, and cocktail-making classes.
One thing that makes my business unique is that I love bringing my clients’ visions to life. From developing house-made syrups and creating signature cocktails to designing the bar so it complements each event’s theme and aesthetic, every detail is thoughtfully curated. I also offer interactive cocktail-making classes, I enjoy finding ways to make every event feel personal fun and memorable.
Today, I’m proud to combine entrepreneurship, creativity, and hospitality through Spirits of Wanderlust. It’s been incredibly rewarding to watch an idea grow into a business that allows me to connect with people, celebrate life’s special moments, and create experiences that guests remember long after the last drink is served.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road. One of my biggest challenges has been balancing multiple commitments while building Spirits of Wanderlust. I’ve continued working in hospitality while growing my business, which has meant long days, late nights, and dedicating much of my free time to learning and building.
There was also a period where my plans changed unexpectedly. I had been pursuing dental school, but life took me in a different direction. Looking back, that experience pushed me to fully commit to the path I was most passionate about, hospitality and entrepreneurship.
Building this business has also been a challenge because I’ve done it largely on my own. I didn’t have a step-by-step guide or investors behind me, so I spent countless hours researching everything from licensing and marketing to pricing and event design learning through trial and error.
I also didn’t come from a wealthy background, so every investment I’ve made into the business has come from years of working hard and saving. That has made me appreciate every opportunity and every milestone. Through it all, I’ve been incredibly grateful for the support of my family and friends, whose encouragement has given me the confidence to keep pursuing this dream.
As you know, we’re big fans of Spirits of Wanderlust. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Spirits of Wanderlust is a mobile bartending company based in South Florida that specializes in creating elevated, personalized bar experiences for private events, weddings, corporate gatherings, wellness events, and interactive cocktail-making classes. My goal has always been to provide more than just drinks, I want every bar to become a memorable part of the event itself.
What sets my business apart is the level of customization and attention to detail. Every event is thoughtfully designed to reflect the client’s vision, from handcrafted signature cocktails and house-made syrups to bar styling that complements the event’s theme and aesthetic. Whether it’s an elegant wedding, a luxury brand activation, a wellness mocktail bar, or a birthday celebration, I believe every experience should feel unique rather than one-size-fits-all.
One service I’m especially proud of is my interactive cocktail-making classes. Instead of simply serving drinks, I teach guests how to craft and garnish their own cocktails, creating an experience that’s fun, engaging, and something they’ll remember long after the event ends. I also love creating sophisticated mocktail experiences, proving that alcohol-free beverages can be just as creative and elevated as traditional cocktails.
At the heart of Spirits of Wanderlust is hospitality. I believe great service is about making people feel welcomed, cared for, and celebrated. Every event, no matter the size, receives the same level of creativity, professionalism, and attention to detail because I truly care about bringing each client’s vision to life.
I want readers to know that when they book Spirits of Wanderlust, they’re not just hiring a bartender, they’re investing in an experience that’s thoughtfully curated, beautifully presented, and designed to leave a lasting impression.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
I define success as building a life that feels meaningful and aligned with who you are. For me, success isn’t only about financial growth or achievements, it’s about having the freedom to create something of my own, making an impact through the experiences I provide, and being proud of the work I put into it.
Starting Spirits of Wanderlust has taught me that success comes from taking risks, staying consistent, and continuing to grow even when the path isn’t always clear. I’m proud of the fact that I built something from the ground up through hard work, creativity, and a willingness to learn.
Success also means being able to bring people together and create moments they’ll remember. Whether it’s a wedding, a celebration, or a cocktail class, knowing that something I created helped make someone’s experience special is what motivates me.
Pricing:
- Signature Cocktail Experience — Starting at $550 Includes professional bartending service, bar setup, ice, mixers, garnishes, disposable glassware, cocktail napkins, and a curated cocktail experience customized to the event.
- Mocktail & Wellness Bar Experience — Starting at $450 A fully customized alcohol-free bar experience featuring elevated mocktails, house-made syrups, fresh ingredients, and a beautiful setup designed for wellness events, brand activations, and celebrations.
- Mini Pop-Up Bar Activation — Starting at $350 Perfect for smaller gatherings or specialty events, offering a stylish bar setup and personalized drink experience.
- Interactive Cocktail-Making Classes — Pricing available upon request A hands-on experience where guests learn how to craft, garnish, and enjoy their own cocktails with step-by-step guidance.
- Custom Event Packages — Available upon request Every event is unique, and pricing is customized based on guest count, location, service length, event style, and add-ons such as specialty garnishes, custom menus, themed bar styling, and luxury upgrades.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://spiritsofwanderlust.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spiritsofwanderlust/
