Lessons from La Dama Bartending
What happens when passion meets purpose, and community comes first?
In an episode of the Business Edge Podcast, we sat down with Denise, owner of La Dama Bartending & Catering, a Latina-owned business known for bold flavors, beautiful presentation, and unforgettable experiences.
Her story offers powerful lessons for entrepreneurs, creatives, and local business owners, especially those building values-driven businesses.
Here are the biggest takeaways from the episode and why it’s worth listening to the full conversation.
1. Passion is the starting point, not the strategy
Denise didn’t launch La Dama with a formal business plan. She started with a love for celebrating people. Family gatherings. Music. Drinks. Creating moments that feel special.
That passion helped her begin, but growth came when she paired it with structure and strategy.
One of her biggest early challenges was pricing. She wasn’t charging for prep time, labor, or expertise until her children encouraged her to rethink her value.
Takeaway: Passion starts the business. Smart systems help it grow.
2. Knowing your worth is a business skill
Like many women entrepreneurs, Denise underpriced her work for years. Not because she lacked skill, but because she was focused on giving, not earning. Once she committed to charging based on her time, experience, and creativity, everything shifted.
Takeaway: Your time and skill are part of the product. Price them accordingly.
3. Culture is not an add-on, it’s the foundation
Denise’s Mexican heritage shapes everything she creates. From fresh fruit and bold flavors, to thoughtful details and presentation, to the way people feel when they walk up to her bar - her culture isn’t branding, it’s authenticity.
Takeaway: When you build from who you are, your brand becomes magnetic.
4. Supporting local businesses builds stronger communities
A core part of La Dama’s business model is buying local whenever possible. Local farms. Local florists. Local vendors.
That commitment doesn’t just feel good. It builds trust, referrals, and long-term relationships.
Takeaway: Community-first businesses create lasting impact.
5. Customer service is about connection, not transactions
Denise approaches customer service the same way she approaches celebrations: with care. She takes time to know her clients, understand their vision, and create an experience. Not just serve food or drinks.
Takeaway: People remember how you made them feel long after the event ends.
6. Self-care is part of running a successful business
Burnout is real. Especially for business owners who rarely slow down. Denise shared how important it’s been to prioritize mental and physical health, even when it feels uncomfortable to step back.
Takeaway: You can’t pour into your business if your own cup is empty.
7. Big goals don’t need perfect timing
Denise’s vision includes:
- A future La Dama Bar
- Signature barware and products
- Hands-on cocktail classes
She doesn’t have every detail figured out yet but that hasn’t stopped her from dreaming.
Takeaway: You don’t need the full plan to take the next step.
Listen to the full Business Edge Podcast and get inspired by a local Latina-owned business built on passion, community, and purpose. This article highlights the lessons but the full episode delivers the heart.
You’ll hear:
- Denise’s journey in her own words
- Honest conversations about pricing and confidence
- What values-driven entrepreneurship really looks like
And if you ever experience La Dama in person? You won’t just taste it. You’ll feel it. To learn more about La Dama Bartending and Catering’s services, visit www.ladamabartending.com.