What type of event would I hire Shepherd’s Tap for?
- Any kind of event! Weddings, birthday parties, graduations, corporate events, bridal showers, retirements, tailgates, backyard parties, outdoor celebrations, etc. If people are gathering, we’re pouring.

How do I book an event with Shepherd’s Tap?

- Interested in booking an event with us? Fill out the interest form on our website, email us at shepherdstap@gmail.com, or send us a message on facebook.

Which cities do you serve? Do you travel outside city limits?

- We are located in Chesapeake, Virginia. We serve surrounding Virginia and North Carolina cities.

Do you provide the alcohol?

- Because of Virginia ABC regulations, mobile bars are not allowed to sell or supply alcohol directly — meaning we cannot purchase or provide the beverages for your event. Instead, you (the client) purchase the alcohol of your choice from any store, brewery, or winery. This actually works in your favor, because buying your own alcohol is almost always far cheaper than paying marked-up bar prices. We’re happy to help you plan your drink menu, estimate how much you’ll need, and recommend great local places to shop. Once your beverages arrive at the venue, we take care of all equipment setup, tapping, cooling, and keeping everything ready for whoever will be serving at your event.

- For North Carolina events, the rules may differ and could require a special event permit depending on the setup. We’ll guide you through the process so everything stays compliant and stress-free.

What’s included when we book Shepherd’s Tap?

- Your booking includes our full walk-in mobile bar, an eight-tap draft system, a three-door beverage fridge, ice maker, A/C and heat, sinks, water system, wine barrels, chalkboard menu doors, and all bar tools needed for service.
(See the Services tab for full package details.)

Do we need a permit or license for our event?

- In most cases, yes — if you’re serving alcohol at a private event in Virginia, the host is required to obtain a Virginia ABC Banquet License. Don’t worry, it’s simple and inexpensive. The Banquet License allows you (the event host) to legally provide alcohol to your guests, whether it’s beer, wine, cider, or mixed drinks. It takes just a few minutes to apply online, and approval often happens the same day.

We’ll guide you on which license you need and when to submit it, but the responsibility to apply falls on the client, not the mobile bar. For the majority of weddings, retirements, and private celebrations, this license is required unless the venue already holds its own ABC license.

- North Carolina events may require a different temporary permit depending on the setup, and we’ll help point you in the right direction for that as well.

If the event is at a private residence, do we still need a Banquet License?

- If your event is hosted at your personal home, you do not need a Virginia ABC Banquet License. Virginia only requires a license when alcohol is served at a location that is not a private residence — such as venues, rented halls, farms, barns, parks, businesses, or event spaces.

When you host an event at your own home, the law treats it the same as having friends over for a backyard party.

Can you serve non-alcoholic options?

- Absolutely! Our tap system can pour anything that’s kegged and CO₂-friendly — including NA beer, cider, or other non-alcoholic beverages that are sold in keg form. Beyond the taps, our three-door fridge can chill wine, sodas, canned drinks, juices, and waters, and the interior shelves can hold bottles of whatever you’d like to include for your event. Whether it’s family-friendly beverages or a mix of NA and alcoholic options, we can accommodate a wide range of drink setups.

How many kegs can your tap system handle?

- We can run eight taps at once, holding up to 45 gallons total with quick-connect lines for fast keg swaps.
Each tap has its own regulator, so beers, ciders, and seltzers all pour perfectly.

Does your bar need power?

We can run off your venue’s shore power or a generator.
We have multiple outlets inside for lights, chargers, speakers, neon signs — whatever fits your event vibe.

Does the bar have A/C or heat?

- Yes — Shepherd’s Tap is equipped with both A/C and heat to help keep the inside comfortable. Since it’s a walk-in bar with an open layout, some of that cooling and warmth naturally flows outside, but it still makes a noticeable difference for bartenders and guests stepping inside. It’s perfect for taking the edge off a hot summer day or adding a little warmth during cooler seasons.

Do you need water hookups?

- Nope! Shepherd’s Tap brings its own 30-gallon fresh-water tank along with a matching gray-water tank, so we’re fully self-contained for most events. The gray water is simply the runoff from handwashing and rinsing — it’s mostly clear and minimal.

- If your event requires more water than our built-in system holds, we can hook up to an on-site water source. The only requirement is having a proper area or drain where the gray water can be safely emptied, based on the venue’s rules and environmental guidelines.

How far in advance should I book?

- We recommend booking as early as possible — especially for spring and fall wedding season.
But if your event is last minute, reach out… we may still be able to make it happen.

Do you require a deposit?

Yes — a non-refundable deposit is required to secure your date.
The remaining balance is due before the event.

Can we decorate the bar?

- Absolutely! You’re welcome to add florals, signs, LED lights, small banners, or themed décor — as long as nothing permanently damages the wood. Many clients also bring framed photos, engagement or retirement pictures, custom drink signs, table décor, or small props to personalize the space. Feel free to get creative and make Shepherd’s Tap match your event’s style.

Do you work with venues or breweries?

Yes! We love partnering with local venues and breweries.

Do you carry insurance?

Yes — we are fully insured and can provide COI (Certificate of Insurance) to venues upon request.

What makes Shepherd’s Tap different from other mobile bars?

• It’s a walk-in bar — not a truck window.
• Eight taps (more than most local mobile bars).
• Full A/C + heat to keep things comfortable.
• A handcrafted cedar interior that feels like stepping into a rustic barn bar.
• Spacious interior with plenty of room for bottles, displays, décor, and personalized touches for your event.
• Designed with weddings and photography in mind — every detail adds to the look and makes a perfect backdrop for photos.
• Wine barrels, chalkboard menu doors, and shelving ready for custom drink signs or event décor.
• Max — the real boss — approves every event.