Today we’d like to introduce you to Rey Santiago
Hi Rey, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Our story begins in Miami, where both my wife, May, and I, Rey, were born and raised. We’ve known each other for over 30 years and have built a life together with our three kids—two daughters and a son. By day, I work in IT, and May is an Instructional Math/Science Coach; both of us are in public education. While we love our current jobs, we’ve always been open to new ventures, from arts and crafts to real estate, always seeking new opportunities for growth and creativity.
Earlier this year, we attended a party that featured mobile taps, and something about it just clicked. The idea of combining our love for classic trucks and beer seemed like a perfect fit. After talking with friends and family, who encouraged us, we decided to dive into the mobile bar business. I started exploring franchise opportunities, but many were out of our budget or just didn’t feel right. That’s when we discovered Tap Truck USA. After a great conversation with their team, everything fell into place. We saw this as not just a fun side hustle but potentially something we could pass on to our children. And now, here we are, excited to see where Tap Truck Miami will take us.
Our goal with Tap Truck Miami is to offer a unique and memorable experience for events. The 1931 Ford Model A truck, which was restored in California about five years ago and later sold to a different owner in Indiana, now calls Miami home. It’s been an exciting adventure so far, and we’re eager to see how this journey unfolds.
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?
Getting started was definitely a challenge, but having the support of Tap Truck USA made the process smoother, especially for someone new to this business. As a new business owner, there’s a lot to learn—especially about state laws, which can vary greatly. What works for Tap Truck owners in other states doesn’t always apply here in Florida. Fortunately, I was able to connect with owners in Orlando and Fort Myers who gave me solid advice and guidance, which was a huge help.
Owning an almost 100-year-old truck comes with its own set of challenges. The day we received the truck, Miami had been drenched in rain all week. For a car with no windows and partially made of wood this did not mix well. Getting it off the trailer was nearly a disaster. A few mechanical hiccups followed shortly after, but they’ve been resolved, and most recently, the wood panels were beautifully restored.
The biggest hurdle, though, has been gaining exposure and getting people to hear about Tap Truck. Social media is great, but its reach has limitations. Our hope is that by participating in local events and getting our name out there, we’ll build a larger following over time.
We’ve been impressed with Tap Truck Miami, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At Tap Truck Miami, we specialize in bringing a unique and unforgettable experience to events with our fully restored 1931 Ford Model A ‘Woody,’ which serves as a mobile bar on wheels. We offer a wide variety of beverages from craft beers, wines, ciders, and cocktails to non-alcoholic options like sodas and mocktails, all served directly from the taps built into our classic truck.
What sets us apart is not just the vintage charm of our classic truck but the personalized touch we bring to every event. We take pride in offering a wide range of beverage options, helping our clients create a custom menu tailored to their tastes. We’re not just bartenders—we’re about creating a vibe that enhances the overall atmosphere of the occasion.
Brand-wise, we are most proud of the authenticity and charm our truck brings, and the joy we see on people’s faces when they experience something truly unique. Tap Truck Miami is part of a bigger nation wide brand, Tap Truck USA. Our goal is to provide top-notch service with a creative twist, making every celebration unforgettable.
What we want readers to know about Tap Truck Miami is that we’re here to elevate your event. We handle the logistics, from helping you source your alcohol to ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience for you and your guests. If you’re looking for something that combines nostalgia, fun, and premium service, Tap Truck Miami is your go-to.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is the importance of resilience and adaptability. Owning a 100-year-old truck comes with constant mechanical challenges, and staying patient through unexpected repairs has been key.
On the marketing side, while social media helps, the real impact comes from live events where people experience the truck firsthand. Building awareness takes time, but we’ve found success through local collaborations.
Overall, things don’t always go as planned, but staying focused, learning from challenges, and staying flexible has been crucial to our growth.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://taptruckmiami.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taptruckmiami
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561251355765
- Twitter: https://x.com/taptruckmiami
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TapTruckMiami
