Introducing: Blackbirds & Tonic

Here at Roll To we see a lot of mobile bars, tons of vintage conversions, a multitude of business names and a whole lot more business logos. It can be hard to attract attention in what is a fast-growing industry full of distinctive, eye-catching offerings.

But when we first came across Blackbirds & Tonic, we were struck by a new mobile bar venture that stood out from the crowd.

Firstly, this is no ordinary horse trailer conversion. Transformed themselves by owners and husband-and-wife team, Scott and Raeven, this bar is a beauty. Whilst the inside walls have been left a clean, ivory white, the exterior has been wrapped in a jet black that provides the trailer with a stylish, sexy finish. A butcher block bar top, wooden shelves, tinted portholes, huge wraparound serving windows and vibrant green flora add the finishing touches to a bar that you can’t take your eyes off.

The Blackbirds & Tonic aesthetic was born out of a love for speakeasy bars, something that has been captured perfectly.

“One of my favorite pastimes was getting with my friends over a couple of glasses of champagne and having deep thoughtful conversation” Raeven told Roll To. “While it was nice to gather at home, I also liked going out, it brought a social vibe that I enjoyed. But I hated the bar scene, it’s loud and belligerent. I wanted somewhere we could hear ourselves speak. So, I started looking for speakeasies everywhere I went. They spoke to me, and I knew I wanted to create that same ambiance in my own venture.”

“The pandemic hit - it was frightening and for someone like me who currently operate five bars, it was rough to tell a handful of employees to search the unemployment website for options. The thought of opening a brick and mortar terrified me. So, I racked my brain for how I could bring my passion for the speakeasy experience to customers who maybe don’t want to venture out to a traditional bar. One day, when driving to work, I thought let’s build something mobile! So, Blackbirds & Tonic came to life. We’re so happy we chose this route.”

Such a distinctive style calls for distinctive branding and Blackbirds & Tonic's is definitely memorable.

As you may have guessed, the ‘Blackbirds’ title derives from owner Raeven’s name.

“People just never let me forget it growing up, from bird calls, to quoting Edger Allen Poe and the TV sensation Raven-Symoné, it’s just always been a topic of conversation!”

Take a look at the mobile bar’s Instagram account and you’ll see a raven and cocktails motif drawn in an eye-catching watercolor style.

The logo is mysterious and stylish, but also playful, a lot like the aesthetics and philosophy of the bar.

Customized for different occasions and events, Blackbirds & Tonic can be accessorized with antique furniture, grazing tables, balloon garlands and bespoke lighting.

“We are just so excited to add as much unique and wow as possible to every event we do! We love that people are amazed when they see the trailer dressed up for their big occasion. It’s such a pleasure to see!”

Available for weddings, corporate events, birthdays, fundraisers, tastings and more, the Blackbirds & Tonic mobile bar is now taking bookings for 2022 & 2023 in Santa Cruz and surrounding areas.

Contact Blackbirds & Tonic here

Follow on Instagram here

Balloon garlands and grazing tables by @eventsbyshari