About
Zoe Richards
Owner/ Mixologist
Hi! I’m Zoe - a Truckee native, Reno local and owner of The Old Fashioned Bar. While spending the last decade working in the event industry, I’ve also been dreaming of starting my own business. The Old Fashioned Bar has made that dream a reality! I find this little trailer a perfect place to focus my creative energy – whether it’s experimenting with new flavors for a custom cocktail or designing the perfect bar ambiance. I also love the satisfaction that comes with planning a logistically flawless event. It brings me so much joy to take part in curating the most memorable moments for our clients’ special occasions.
When I’m not developing new cocktail recipes, you can usually find me outside. I spend most of my free time skiing in the winter, mountain biking in the summer or adventuring with my dogs year-round. As much as I love the amazing backyard we have here in Reno-Tahoe, I also enjoy traveling, experiencing other cultures and bringing fresh inspiration back home with me.
The Old Fashioned
The 1964 Go-lite trailer was found in a field in Carson City, Nevada. The ‘canned ham’ style trailer was neglected for decades; however, we knew our dream of building a mobile bar and some elbow grease would restore it to its previous glory.
We barely made it home without it crumbling off the trailer. It was in such disrepair; we had to completely demo it and start from the ground up. We managed to save many of the original parts to be reused: entry door, drawer pulls, door hinges, etc. But the rest was up to us to give it life.
We used the original trailer as a template for the new build. It is the exact shape and dimensions of the original design, but now with modern amenities. Inside is a fully functional cocktail bar that comfortably accommodates two bartenders to serve out of two different service windows. There is a draft system that can house two small kegs of beer, a fridge to keep cocktail mixers, running water to wash hands, dimmable overhead LED lights, and exterior party lights. Everything is powered by 12v batteries that are charged via solar panels. There is no need for noisy generators or extension cords.
At first glance we are small, quiet and charming. But on closer inspection, we have big character that will add flair to any occasion!