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Paterson woman turns bartending into thriving business

Medalin Sanchez is the founder of Island Bar, a mobile bartending service that brings custom cocktails, mocktails and good vibes to weddings, birthday parties and corporate gatherings.

Jenni Portorreal

Jun 14, 2025, 9:39 PM

Updated 11 hr ago

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A 24-year-old Paterson woman is building a business one drink at a time, delivering a personalized party experience across the state.
Medalin Sanchez is the founder of Island Bar, a mobile bartending service that brings custom cocktails, mocktails and good vibes to weddings, birthday parties and corporate gatherings.
It started two years ago when a cousin invited her to a bartending class.
She fell in love with the craft, earned her license and certificate and launched her first event in 2023 with a family gathering.
Sanchez now works with a team of four bartenders, typically serving up to three clients a day, each for about four hours.
She loads up her car with everything she needs - from the bar setup and coolers to mixers - and brings the party directly to her clients.
Sanchez says the most gratifying part of her journey is seeing her clients enjoy their celebrations.
She hopes to expand by adding a mobile coffee service in the near future.


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