Meet Sara.
She’s the list-making, event-rocking, pizza-loving, cocktail-sipping, Girl Boss behind Swig - Event Staffing and Coordination. In honor of International Women’s Day, we wanted to highlight the force between Swig’s success!
Where did you grow up? Downingtown, PA
Where did you go to college? West Chester University, BA in Marketing
How long were you in the restaurant business? I started as a hostess in 1999 when I was 16, last bar job was 2015, full-time Swiggin’ since!
What prompted you to start Swig in 2008? A few guests at the bar where I worked in West Chester always asked for help at their house parties, so I thought it would be a good idea for a side business. It grew organically--starting with just bartending (hence the name) and adding more positions over the years--servers, chefs, and day of coordinators.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in business? As hard as I try, I can’t make everyone happy. Staff and clients alike.
How has the industry changed since you’ve started Swig? More competition!
What advice would you give a woman who to start her own business? Be patient and take it day by day, success doesn’t happen overnight.
What’s one book ever every entrepreneur should read? Girl Boss by Sophia Amoruso
Proudest Swig Moment: Anytime my parents talk about how proud they are of Swig and me, especially with my mom and her / our work with Domestic Violence Center of Chester County.
Favorite Swig story: Off the top of my head Talia, one of our first Swigtenders, had to keep a donkey away from Deke’s BBQ buffet at a wedding on a farm in New Hope in August 2016. It was too funny!
Coolest Swig venue/event: The work we did with the Democratic Convention at the 23rd Street Armory in July 2016 was pretty awesome!
What’s an average day for you? Emails, emails, calls, emails.
How many emails do you get a day? Up to 100 depending on the time of year!
Favorite cocktail? The Last Word, prohibition-era cocktail that is equal parts gin, chartreuse, maraschino liqueur, and fresh lime juice. Absolutely delicious!
Favorite food? PIZZA
Favorite restaurant? Too many to choose! Vernick, Zahav, Amada & Dandelion are up there.
What do you do when you’re not working? Snuggle with my fur kids, traveling, hiking, spend time with friends and family.
Why do you love Chestnut Hill? It’s a very friendly and safe neighborhood, with lots of great spots to hang and shop.