The Cotch Bar: how a group of friends transformed a caravan into a mobile cocktail bar
Posted on: 21 Mar 2018The Cotch Bar is a caravan turned cocktail bar, created by a group of friends; Gabe, JJ and Zebb who combined their collective talents, in a tiny start-up that has since, catapulted into something much larger.
The idea came about after a New Year’s Eve party at Gabe’s house. With the thought that putting on a decent event could be something more regular. With Gabe’s bar tending and business experience, and JJ’s technical ability with live event equipment, the pair had somewhat of a eureka moment. Why not collaborate?
With this in mind, they wanted to essentially take the party to wherever there was cause for celebration. And so, the idea of some sort of travelling ‘box’ was initiated. Gabe originally thought of converting a horse box, but was dissuaded after a discussion with the local festival guru, who goes by the name of Caravan Pete. Now sure that a caravan would be the best option, they found a 1975 Alpine Sprite on Gumtree and the rest is history.
They immediately began work on the interior, gutting it out to make a blank canvas to get creative with. Gabe then began to design a floor plan, whilst Zebb, master mixologist, and a former barman at legendary Manchester bar- The Alchemist, designed the bar.
As time progressed, so did the caravan. After a couple of weeks visioning and sketching plans, came the actual building of it. For a group of 21 year olds with little to no woodwork experience, it was set to be a challenge. “The project began to feel like we were biting off more than we could chew. But hey, go big or go home right?” was the attitude they went by.
5 months later and the dream became a reality. With the help of a team of family and friends, Richard Stark at The English Caravan Company, who installed the service hatch and of Sam Hodson Design who created the vinyl print for the logo- which can be seen on the front of the caravan.
The word ‘Cotch’ takes its origins from Jamaica, meaning; to relax or rest for a while. The word certainly transpires into the atmosphere which the team provide for their clients. Firm believers that their customers need not worry and need not stress, their goal is simple; to make sure everybody has fun with a delicious drink in hand. “We try to carry this relaxed friendly vibe with us to all of our events and into the pre-event organisation. When you hire the caravan, you don’t just get the caravan, you get the whole Cotch experience.” The experience being more than just a bar, as they can also provide optional extras of specialist lighting, decorations, sound, DJ’s and even live acts.
Zebb hand crafted all of the bespoke ‘Cotchtails’ himself, tried and tested amongst his friends and family of course. “A lot of thought, time and hangovers went into menu development. I wanted to have as much fun with this as possible and try to create something accessible to anyone whilst staying intriguing enough to stand out. I was inviting my bartending mates over 2-3 days a week for over a month, it was a right laugh. My flat looked like some mad lab with infusions, peculiar spirits and pans cooking up new syrups. I chose a selection and redeveloped them so they would work outside of the kitchen. Add a few classics, navigate stocks and the menu was ready!” Green Twist, Banoffee Bullet, Pink G&T and Banana Zombie are some names of his unique cocktails- priced at just £5 a pop! They also provide all the classics like Margarita, Pornstar Martini, Long Island Ice Tea and more. The team can also create tailor-made cocktails and drinks packages to suit every event.
The Cotch Bar had its first run last summer at Get Pickled Festival, a small one day event with four hand-built stages, numerous sound systems and live shows. The production was done in-part by the guys themselves. It was a huge success, with que upon que of people wanting more of their master cocktails. They have since been booked for other events, both on an intimate and grander scale; as they continue to build on their reputation for providing an alternative and interesting bar space with drinks that can't be found anywhere else.
What always remains integral to The Cotch Bar, is the warm, inviting and unique approach to service that they offer. Creating an original concept in a competitive sector, is something born out of the team’s sheer hard work and creativity. Providing a bespoke experience, with service that is a cut above average, and mouth-watering drinks to match.
The team’s newest venture involves making a new bar from an upright piano for smaller events, which they hope will be up and running by June 2018. Their summer season will last until September and if anyone is interested in hiring a Cotch Bar for an event, simply get in touch via Facebook or email thecotchbar@gmail.com. They can then get to work creating a tailor-made drinks package with specific requirements from customers.
“Each Cotch event is specifically designed to fit the needs of the host. We do all the hard work so you can enjoy the occasion you are celebrating. Instead of running around like a headless chicken making sure everyone is having a good time, you can be the one having all the fun!”
They are based in Stratford-Upon-Avon, just south of Birmingham and can travel to all areas near to Bristol. The distance they are willing to tow the caravan depends on the size of the event, but with the new piano bar they can travel much further afield. Keep an eye out on their Facebook page for a look at the new bar.
Article by:
Hannah recently graduated with a degree in English with Writing. She is an avid writer, freelancer and creative. She is currently writing her first full-length novel and a collection of poetry. Always out and about in Bristol's music scene, she attends music events on a weekly basis.
