The heat and humidity of the South doesn’t keep us from loving a great cup of coffee and the aroma of our favorite coffee shops. We have to admit though that the the frigid winters and temperatures of the New England states gives them insider tips and traditions to serve a great cup of Joe for any occasion. A memorable way to have a wonderful wedding reception would be to hire a barista to add conversation and caffeine while serving up specialty coffee drinks!
Premier Bride of Mississippi writer, Jenny Cox Holman, interviewed David Salzman, Espresso Dave, a true pioneer—the first to bring specialty coffee catering to New England events and celebrations. Since 1993, Espresso Dave has set up thousands of specialty coffee cafés, with single and multiple carts, at events, large and small. Based in the Boston area, his teams can be found at event venues across America.
- Dave, I’ve heard that you are the “barista to the stars!” Would you mind telling our readers about your fun coffee connection to celebrities?
Boston and various locations throughout New England are quite popular for film production. We’re the go-to company to “fuel” the actors and production crew during their long (and late night) hours. We’ve been on set with Johnny Depp, Leonardo DiCaprio, Matthew McConaughey, and Cameron Diaz, just to name (drop) a few!
- Can you tell our readers about your expertise and experience in the specialty coffee catering industry?
We’re the pioneer of specialty coffee catering in New England. In fact, when we started the biz in 1993, we were trailblazers as the first and only specialty coffee caterers in the region.
- What are three reasons why a wedding reception that has a specialty coffee café and espresso bar with an experienced barista would be memorable?
There are a number of reasons to have an espresso bar service at your wedding. A service like ours adds sophistication, provides a fun, nonalcoholic alternative and creates the cafe atmosphere which promotes camaraderie and conversation.
- What are some of your favorite coffee drinks to serve for wedding receptions?
We love all of our specialty coffee drinks. The most popular at wedding receptions are espressos and mochaccinos.
- Do you offer signature coffee drinks for weddings?
Can you customize an eye-catching menu with fun names for signature coffee drinks? Yes, we offer signature coffee drinks and custom menus. It’s our pleasure to do whatever it takes to make the couple’s day as special as possible.
- Do you have any recommendations where a couple could look to find a qualified barista to serve at a wedding in their town?
Hiring a specialty coffee vendor is very different than hiring an attendant to serve coffee. Here’s a few suggestions: Ask your venue Ask your wedding planner Attend one of the five Premier Bridal Shows in your area Search the Internet using keywords including town and state Check reviews on The Knot and Wedding Wire
- How far will you travel to serve at a wedding reception? Mississippi?
We’ve traveled to Hawaii, Florida, Seattle, and Las Vegas. We would love to work with Mississippi couples, but with travel costs, it may break the wedding budget!
- What advice would you offer to a couple who is looking into the idea of having a specialty coffee cafe or espresso bar with a barista at their wedding?
Before you meet with the vendor, be sure the venue allows outside vendors. Also, have an idea of what your budget will allow and the number of guests (adults/children) who will attend.
- Do you serve specialty teas, drinks suitable for children (young guests at weddings), or offer alternatives for those specific dietary restrictions?
Yes, we offer chai tea lattes and hot chocolates. We also offer a variety of non-dairy alternatives (almond, rice or coconut milk).
- Here’s a fun question – do you think that a person’s favorite coffee drink says something about their personality?
Yes!
- What is the best way for potential clients to reach you, so they can secure your services?
The best way a potential client can reach me is to send me a request for quote either via my website,www.espressodave.com, or dave@espressodave.com