NMWE:
How did you become a part of this industry?
Espresso Dave’s:
As you know, I love a good espresso. In 1993, I was a sales rep for a line of espresso machines. Two of my restaurant clients asked if I could set up espresso stations for large, special events. My on-site, coffee catering service got rave reviews both times! Next, I tested the waters at Portsmouth’s annual Market Square Day, on the corner of Congress and Middle Street (where Jumpin’ Jays is today). My espresso cart concept, complete with freshly brewed espressos, cappuccinos and lattes, was very well-received! It was at that point, I decided to take the leap to become the go-to espresso bar caterer for weddings and special events.
NMWE:
What sets you apart? / What is your most valued feature about your business?
Espresso Daves:
It’s difficult to narrow it down to a single feature! How about the top four features?
1. Quality of product;
2. Friendliness of our baristas;
3. Speed at which we deliver handcrafted, made-to-order espresso coffee drinks;
4. Minimal space and electrical required for our espresso cart service-only 5 feet of space and we plug right into a regular electrical outlet.
NMWE:
What keeps you passionate and motivated?
Espresso Dave’s:
The smiles and thumbs-up we receive when we present guests with their coffees and many guests come back for seconds and thirds during an event. Also, we love when our couples refer us to their friends and family members. Believe it or not, for several families, we’ve been part of events spanning three generations!
NMWE:
What are your desired types of couples?
Espresso Dave’s:
All types—coffee and non-coffee drinkers, alike. One characteristic we see with our couples is that value and appreciate treating their guests to a unique, high quality service. These couples are seeking ways to excite/surprise their wedding guests and that’s what our service does. Guests are thrilled to get quality, made-to-order, specialty coffee with their dessert course.
NMWE:
Do you have a past favorite wedding? If yes, why is it your favorite?
Espresso Dave’s:
I’ve enjoyed 25 years of special weddings! I always feel honored when a couple wants my service at their reception. There are several weddings that stand out in my mind. But, one of the most memorable was the wedding of Marc Fucarile to long-time fiance Jennifer Regan in Boston in 2014. Marc’s a Boston marathon bombing survivor who lost his right leg and suffered additional injuries during the second blast. Their wedding was held at Fenway Park with a fabulous reception at Hotel Commonwealth. I provided my espresso bar service as a member of the Love Runs Through Boston vendor team. All members of this team worked pro bono. It was an incredibly moving day and Jen and Marc were an inspiration to all, especially me. They proved that you can overcome life’s major obstacles with love.
NMWE:
What is your best piece of advice or tip for couples planning a wedding?
Espresso Dave’s:
Find a reputable wedding planner; it makes all the difference in the world for guests, vendors, as well as the couple. It’s truly the only way a couple can enjoy their special festivities!
