Life & Work with Lorena Robles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lorena Robles.

Hi Lorena, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story. 
From a humble start as a hostess at a breakfast restaurant at the age of 16, my journey through the restaurant industry feels like a lifetime. I moved up the ranks, progressing from a server to a bartender, eventually becoming a manager at a fine dining establishment that graced the shores of Pawleys Island, South Carolina. The views from our restaurant were nothing short of breathtaking. I got to work by the ocean, and looking back being able to enjoy that daily truly was special. Although I wore many hats in this industry, my heart always had a special place for bartending. It was the most enjoyable role for me, where I had the privilege of meeting new people, forging connections, and networking with individuals from around the world. Our small coastal town was a hidden gem, drawing not only local patrons but also visitors from renowned hubs like Charleston, South Carolina, a mecca for food and tourism. In my core, I’ve always been drawn to creativity, and I believe this is why I enjoyed bartending the most by crafting unique and delightful drinks that became a true art form. 

After years in the restaurant industry, I made a significant pivot in my career and became an occupational therapy assistant specializing in pediatrics. This transition opened up a whole new world for me and became my next passion. Working with children is incredibly fulfilling, and I found immense joy in making a positive impact on their lives. During this time, I also met my now-husband, who at the time lived in Phoenix while I resided in South Carolina. We made a valiant effort to see each other every three months, but as anyone who has been in a long-distance relationship knows, the distance can take its toll. The year we decided to make a life together in Phoenix happened to be 2020, during the height of the pandemic. Moving to a bustling city from a small coastal town was a profound shift, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of loneliness and homesickness. 

Feeling the weight of loneliness and having a burgeoning desire to start my own business, I created Mexclados Bartending, a mobile bartending business. The name ‘Mexclados’ carries special meaning as it reflects our identity. Derived from the Spanish word ‘mezclar,’ which means to mix or combine, it underscores our commitment to the art of crafting exquisite drinks. We made a subtle alteration, replacing the ‘z’ with an ‘x,’ not only to represent our dedication to mixology but also to celebrate our Mexican-American heritage. I specialize in making cocktails using ingredients and techniques specific to my culture, particularly enjoying the art of crafting cocktails with tequila, mezcal, and sotol. This blend of tradition and innovation has been a driving force behind Mexclados Bartending. 

Running this business has been a true joy because it combines everything I love: the art of bartending, my innate creativity, and the freedom of being a business owner. I no longer feel a sense of loneliness or isolation either because I have the privilege of meeting new people nearly every weekend, forming connections, and relishing in the vibrant atmosphere of various events. This endeavor has not only rekindled my creative spirit but also allowed me to work in both of my passions. This dual fulfillment is something I cherish and am immensely grateful for. Additionally, running my mobile bartending business has opened doors for personal growth. I’ve formed valuable partnerships within the industry and continually expand my knowledge of different spirits and mixology. It’s a journey of constant learning and self-improvement that I wholeheartedly embrace. 

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
While my journey through the restaurant industry and the subsequent transition to occupational therapy had their unique sets of challenges, it was when I decided to start Mexclados Bartending that I encountered some of the most significant hurdles. Running a mobile bartending business involves numerous facets and making it all come together seamlessly is no small feat. 

One of the initial struggles was establishing the business itself. Navigating the legal and logistical requirements. Arizona has a specific set of laws, particularly for this industry, and understanding the regulations what we can and can’t do as a mobile bartending business was a challenge. Our clients, who are often new to understanding this industry often require detailed explanations of the regulations. Additionally, breaking into the competitive world of bartending and event services in a new city was difficult. Building a clientele base and establishing a reputation in the Phoenix area took persistence and dedication. In a city with a multitude of similar businesses, standing out and defining our unique identity has been an ongoing challenge. 

Another struggle has been maintaining a work-life balance. Owning and operating a business requires immense dedication, often blurring the lines between work and personal life. Finding that equilibrium has been an ongoing challenge, as I want to excel both as a business owner and as an occupational therapy assistant. 

Nevertheless, I view these challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. Each obstacle we’ve faced has made us stronger and more adaptable, and I wouldn’t change a thing about my journey. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My work as an occupational therapy assistant is deeply fulfilling and aligns with my passion for making a meaningful impact in people’s lives. I specialize in working with children who have special needs and disabilities, including those with conditions such as autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and more. I take immense pride in my role as an occupational therapy assistant, where I have witnessed the positive transformations in the lives of the children I work with. Whether it’s helping a child develop fine motor skills, aiding in sensory integration, or fostering independence in daily tasks, every achievement is a cause for celebration. I genuinely love what I do, and this passion drives me to continue making a difference in the lives of those who need it most. 

In both professions, I place a strong emphasis on service and making a positive impact. Just as I work tirelessly to enhance the lives of children, I bring the same dedication to my mobile bartending business. I consider it a privilege to serve at events and special occasions where my goal is to create a unique and memorable experience for my clients and their guests. The service skills I’ve honed in my role as an occupational therapy assistant have seamlessly transitioned into my bartending services. I understand the importance of personalization, attention to detail, and providing exceptional service. 

Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My favorite childhood memories revolve around the simple joys of family and togetherness. In Mexican culture, family is everything, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have grown up in a tight-knit family. It’s the moments spent together both here in the United States and in Mexico like sharing delicious meals, playing soccer with my cousins, lighting up fireworks, or walking around town while eating esquites that defines my cherished memories. It was the connection and love of my family that made my childhood special. These are the memories that have shaped my appreciation for the importance of family and the traditions we hold dear. As I’ve ventured away from my hometown and built my own life, I’ve come to realize just how precious those moments were. They instilled in me the values of love, togetherness, and the significance of preserving our cultural heritage. It’s the essence of these memories that continue to inspire me. 

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @mexcladosbartending

Image Credits
Alexander Corchuelo