What does it take to build a business around bringing people together? Julie Riga sits down with Nelson Brooks, founder and chief cabana boy of Cabana Boy Events, to share his entrepreneur journey. Nelson started the company in Scottsdale in 2020 after one bachelorette weekend sparked an idea. Today his team has hosted about 8,000 parties in ten markets, and his Shark Tank pitch earned a deal with Kendra Scott, who remains an investor. Nelson and Julie also share the ingredients for success for hosting a great celebration, along with lessons in leadership, purpose, and vision.

Nelson Brooks: The Ingredients for Success for Throwing a Great Party

In This Episode

How a light bulb moment at a bachelorette party became a national party hosting brand
The difference between party hosting and event bartending with the Cocktail Crew
The Shark Tank journey, the deal with Kendra Scott, and what Nelson would do differently
What growth looks like during a challenging year shaped by outside forces
Ingredient one: themed drinks, with just two to four cocktails
Ingredient two: great music that sets the vibe
Ingredient three: the energy of the host
The food debate and why it may not be essential
What is next: franchising and a billion dollar celebration brand

Key Takeaways

Let your natural strengths guide your career
Notice the opportunity right in front of you
Timing and strong financials matter when you pitch
Fewer, better drinks create a better party
The host sets the tone for everyone in the room
Take the pressure off the person in charge so they can enjoy the moment

Connect with Nelson Brooks

Party hosting: partyhostboys.com
Event bartending: cocktail-crew.com

Connect with Julie Riga

Stacklist: https://stacklist.app/julieriga

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