Today we’d like to introduce you to Nikki Couture.
Hi Nikki, 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?
We started out as a group of friends from different backgrounds who wanted to create a place where all types of people would feel welcome. Initially, we were going to serve beer, strictly, but we realized we would be alienating others that didn’t enjoy beer, so we added cider, wine, sangria, champagne, Bloody Mary’s, mimosas and seasonal drinks. With this vision, we have become a gathering place for a diverse group of customers. With the covered beer garden and a variety of drink offerings, we now are a favorite spot for events. We have had weddings, showers, birthday parties and many community fundraisers at our little bar. As for food, we have independent food trucks roll up every day, but we also offer craft snacks (beef jerky, popcorn, cookies, brownies, peanuts and gourmet chips). Because we live in the “Cigar City”, we sell cigars to be enjoyed in the beer garden. We have morphed over time!
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has been a bit of a learning curve since only one of the partners came from a service industry background. We had to learn as we go. We’ve always worked as a team and included our staff to discuss what our customers like or dislike and what’s working and what’s not. We have remained extremely flexible, and I think that has really made us work. Our biggest obstacle has always been RAIN! Florida weather is so unpredictable. The rain was a constant concern, especially when it came to outdoor events or live music. We covered the beer garden this year, so we could all breathe a bit better, especially me.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
We are known for our beautiful and lush beer garden but mostly for being nice! It sounds so simple, but it’s true. I tell my staff to always be kind. It’s easy for them because they are all truly good humans. People need a place to go to get away from the world’s worries. You never know what type of day a customer has had. Anyone can sling a beer, but it seems like people have forgotten that it is the customers that make a place successful, not how “cool” a place is. If you have no customers, you are done. We know that and make sure that every single person that walks through our door feels comfortable and welcome to hang with us.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
Absolutely! We learned that if you take care of your customers, the customers will take care of you. We have some of the most loyal customers in Tampa. Our staff had taken such great care of them over the years that when Covid hit, they took care of our staff. To-go sales were solid, tips were higher, and when we finally did our “Half to Staff” fundraiser, the support was overwhelming!
Pricing:
- “Bottomless Sunday’s” For $15 from 12 to 3 drink bottomless and interchangeable mimosas, sangria and Bloody Mary’s
Contact Info:
- Website: www.c1949.com
Image Credits
Sonya Wagner
