FAQ's
Coromandel to Manawatu – same vibe, new location!
After an amazing 9 seasons as the Coromandel Caravan Bar (visit Instagram for a peek at the good times!), we’ve made the exciting decision to head south and set up in the beautiful Manawatu - closer to family and ready for a new chapter.
From July 2026, we’ll be celebrating with you all down here as the Vintage Events Company, bringing the same fun-loving vibe, same owner, and even a few familiar faces from our original crew!
We’re still soaking up the Coromandel magic with weddings booked there right up until our big move. So whether you’re up north or down south, we’ve got the good times covered!
From July 2026, we’ll be celebrating with you all down here as the Vintage Events Company, bringing the same fun-loving vibe, same owner, and even a few familiar faces from our original crew!
We’re still soaking up the Coromandel magic with weddings booked there right up until our big move. So whether you’re up north or down south, we’ve got the good times covered!
Here’s the lowdown on having Speakeasy, the vintage caravan bar at your celebration…
Does speakeasy need power?
Nope—Speakeasy is totally off-the-grid ready! He’s got a built-in solar power generator that quietly takes care of his small power needs, so there’s no need for a noisy external generator ruining the vibe.
The best part? The solar setup charges during the day and stores enough juice to keep things running smoothly for up to 12 hours—more than enough time for an epic celebration!
So whether you're partying in a paddock, beside the river, or in your backyard, Speakeasy is good to go.
The best part? The solar setup charges during the day and stores enough juice to keep things running smoothly for up to 12 hours—more than enough time for an epic celebration!
So whether you're partying in a paddock, beside the river, or in your backyard, Speakeasy is good to go.
Will Speakeasy provide the alcohol?
Nope... and that’s actually a win for you! We don’t hold a liquor license, which means we don’t sell alcohol. But that also means our pricing stays nice and low, and you get to take advantage of all those awesome deals and specials out there.
Here’s how it works: you supply the drinks, and our friendly team will serve them up to your guests with style. Plus, our experienced licensed bar manager is more than happy to help you figure out what to buy and how much you’ll need—so nothing goes to waste.
It’s all the class of a professional bar, without the hefty price tag.
Cheers to that!
Here’s how it works: you supply the drinks, and our friendly team will serve them up to your guests with style. Plus, our experienced licensed bar manager is more than happy to help you figure out what to buy and how much you’ll need—so nothing goes to waste.
It’s all the class of a professional bar, without the hefty price tag.
Cheers to that!
How does Speakeasy keep the drinks chilled?
Great question—because no one wants a warm drink at a party!
Speakeasy is fully equipped to keep things cool with two insulated sinks built right into the bar, which we pack with ice to chill your drinks. Inside, there are extra-large chilly bins for backup stock, so we’ve got you covered behind the scenes too.
We have a very cool retro wheeled chiller that is perfect for the beers - perfect for that grab-and-go vibe!
Just one thing: the first batch of drinks should be pre-chilled before we arrive, so we can hit the ground running. And if your guest list is over 60 (or you're partying in peak summer), we recommend having a chiller trailer or similar on hand to keep everything icy cold all day long.
Cheers to staying cool!
Speakeasy is fully equipped to keep things cool with two insulated sinks built right into the bar, which we pack with ice to chill your drinks. Inside, there are extra-large chilly bins for backup stock, so we’ve got you covered behind the scenes too.
We have a very cool retro wheeled chiller that is perfect for the beers - perfect for that grab-and-go vibe!
Just one thing: the first batch of drinks should be pre-chilled before we arrive, so we can hit the ground running. And if your guest list is over 60 (or you're partying in peak summer), we recommend having a chiller trailer or similar on hand to keep everything icy cold all day long.
Cheers to staying cool!
What drinks will the Speakeasy team serve?
Pretty much whatever you provide—we're here to keep the good times flowing!
Our standard package includes service of bottled beer, wine, bubbles, RTDs, and non-alcoholic drinks.
Just let us know what you’re after, mixed drinks may mean we need need to bring extra glassware or even an additional staff member to keep things running smoothly.
Want to add a little flair? We also offer cocktail and mocktail options to take your event to the next level!
As we near the end of service, we’ll switch from glassware to EcoWare disposable cups—made from plants and much kinder to the planet. Because sipping sustainably is always in style!
Our standard package includes service of bottled beer, wine, bubbles, RTDs, and non-alcoholic drinks.
Just let us know what you’re after, mixed drinks may mean we need need to bring extra glassware or even an additional staff member to keep things running smoothly.
Want to add a little flair? We also offer cocktail and mocktail options to take your event to the next level!
As we near the end of service, we’ll switch from glassware to EcoWare disposable cups—made from plants and much kinder to the planet. Because sipping sustainably is always in style!
Do the Speakeasy Team provide table service?
We serve directly from Speakeasy and there’s a good reason for it! It encourages your guests to mingle and chat as they make their way to the bar (hello social butterflies!) Plus, people tend to finish their drinks before grabbing a new one, which means less waste. Win-win!
That said, our team will be circulating throughout the event to clear away empty glasses and keep things looking tidy.
If you'd prefer full table service, just let us know—we can absolutely make it happen! We will need to bring along an extra set of hands to keep the good vibes (and drinks!) flowing.
That said, our team will be circulating throughout the event to clear away empty glasses and keep things looking tidy.
If you'd prefer full table service, just let us know—we can absolutely make it happen! We will need to bring along an extra set of hands to keep the good vibes (and drinks!) flowing.
Do you take away the recycling & rubbish?
Sorry but we just don’t have the space! Our vehicle is packed to the brim with all the goodies... bar gear, props, glassware... you name it. So there’s no room left for bags of empties or rubbish.
But don’t worry—we won’t leave a mess! At the end of the night, we’ll make sure all rubbish and recycling is neatly bagged up and left tidy, ready for disposal.
It’s our version of a clean getaway!
But don’t worry—we won’t leave a mess! At the end of the night, we’ll make sure all rubbish and recycling is neatly bagged up and left tidy, ready for disposal.
It’s our version of a clean getaway!
Do we need licenses, consents, or insurance?
Great question—here’s the lowdown!
If you’re hosting your event at a venue, it’s best to check in with your venue coordinator to see what’s needed. Some places require a certified Bar Manager—lucky for you, we’ve got that sorted!
If your celebration is happening in a public space (like a beach or park), you’ll need to check with the local council about any necessary permits.
For private residences? No special permissions needed—just good vibes and a place to party!
As for insurance, we carry public liability insurance and Speakeasy himself is covered for any serious mishaps. If any damage is caused by guests, we may need to charge the insurance excess—but quite a few years of events we've never needed to do this!
If you’re hosting your event at a venue, it’s best to check in with your venue coordinator to see what’s needed. Some places require a certified Bar Manager—lucky for you, we’ve got that sorted!
If your celebration is happening in a public space (like a beach or park), you’ll need to check with the local council about any necessary permits.
For private residences? No special permissions needed—just good vibes and a place to party!
As for insurance, we carry public liability insurance and Speakeasy himself is covered for any serious mishaps. If any damage is caused by guests, we may need to charge the insurance excess—but quite a few years of events we've never needed to do this!
WHere is Speakeasy based, and will you travel?
Speakeasy is proudly based in the Manawatu and Whanganui region, with travel included for anywhere within a 50km radius of Sanson. Easy peasy!
Thinking a little further afield? No worries! We charge just $2.50 per km beyond that.
And if you're dreaming up something even more adventurous, let’s chat cause we love a good road trip.
Have wheels, will travel!
Thinking a little further afield? No worries! We charge just $2.50 per km beyond that.
And if you're dreaming up something even more adventurous, let’s chat cause we love a good road trip.
Have wheels, will travel!
What do I need to provide?
Great question! Here’s the scoop:
You’ll need to supply all the alcohol, non-alcoholic drinks, and mixers you’d like us to serve... unless you’ve added one of our Cocktail or Mocktail Packages, in which case, we’ll be bringing some of the supplies with us.
We highly recommend having a chiller trailer on hand. While Speakeasy can store and chill a good amount, we typically arrive just an hour or so before your event kicks off so having your drinks pre-chilled means your guests get refreshingly cold sips from the very first pour!
Also, be sure there’s easy vehicle access and a nice, level spot for Speakeasy to park and set up. He might be cute, but he’s no lightweight! He needs a bit of space (and a flat stage) to work his magic and look his best.
Just a heads-up that on the day of your event, we may need to tweak the designated setup spot for Speakeasy based on a few practical things—like site access, how easily we can reach the serving window, the slope or contour of the ground, and other unforeseen factors... we’ll always do our utmost best to make it work smoothly and stylishly!
You’ll need to supply all the alcohol, non-alcoholic drinks, and mixers you’d like us to serve... unless you’ve added one of our Cocktail or Mocktail Packages, in which case, we’ll be bringing some of the supplies with us.
We highly recommend having a chiller trailer on hand. While Speakeasy can store and chill a good amount, we typically arrive just an hour or so before your event kicks off so having your drinks pre-chilled means your guests get refreshingly cold sips from the very first pour!
Also, be sure there’s easy vehicle access and a nice, level spot for Speakeasy to park and set up. He might be cute, but he’s no lightweight! He needs a bit of space (and a flat stage) to work his magic and look his best.
Just a heads-up that on the day of your event, we may need to tweak the designated setup spot for Speakeasy based on a few practical things—like site access, how easily we can reach the serving window, the slope or contour of the ground, and other unforeseen factors... we’ll always do our utmost best to make it work smoothly and stylishly!
What’s the difference between Add-Ons and Hire Items?
Great question—we get this one a lot!
Add-Ons are little extras you can tack onto a package booking. They’re priced a bit lower because we’ll bring them along with us on the day of your event and take them away when we go. Super easy, no extra fuss!
Hire Items, on the other hand, can be booked all on their own—no package needed! We’ll deliver them the day before your event and collect them the day after, giving you more flexibility with setup and styling.
So whether you’re going all-in with a full package or just need a few fab pieces to complete your look, we’ve got you covered!
Add-Ons are little extras you can tack onto a package booking. They’re priced a bit lower because we’ll bring them along with us on the day of your event and take them away when we go. Super easy, no extra fuss!
Hire Items, on the other hand, can be booked all on their own—no package needed! We’ll deliver them the day before your event and collect them the day after, giving you more flexibility with setup and styling.
So whether you’re going all-in with a full package or just need a few fab pieces to complete your look, we’ve got you covered!
How does setup and pack down work?
We like to keep things smooth and stress-free! We usually allow ourselves around 2 hours to set up, but if your event needs a bit more time, no worries, we’ll simply arrive earlier. This extra setup time doesn’t come off your service hours or cost you anything extra. We’re just making sure everything looks fab and runs perfectly!
Around 30 minutes before service wraps up, we’ll begin gathering our glassware and switch guests over to eco-friendly disposable cups so the drinks keep flowing and the fun doesn’t miss a beat!
And if the party's still going strong when our time’s up, we’ll happily transfer any remaining drinks to a nearby self-serve drink station so your guests can keep sipping into the night. Cheers to that!
Around 30 minutes before service wraps up, we’ll begin gathering our glassware and switch guests over to eco-friendly disposable cups so the drinks keep flowing and the fun doesn’t miss a beat!
And if the party's still going strong when our time’s up, we’ll happily transfer any remaining drinks to a nearby self-serve drink station so your guests can keep sipping into the night. Cheers to that!
I’d love to book—what’s the process?
Yay! We’d love to be part of your celebration!
Here’s how to get started:
Once you’re officially booked in, we’ll be back in touch 5 weeks before your event to go over the finer details like timing, drinks, setup details, and anything else you need.
Your final payment, including a refundable bond, is due 4 weeks before the big day.
Want the quick version of our cancellation policy? If you cancel more than 30 days out, your deposit will be retained, but no additional fees apply. Full details are in our T&Cs, of course!
Can’t wait to hear from you!
Here’s how to get started:
- Send us an email with your event date, estimated guest numbers, and venue location.
- We’ll get back to you within 48 hours to confirm availability.
- If we're good to go, we’ll send you a booking form along with our terms and conditions for you to review.
- To lock in your date, just return the signed booking form and pay a 30% non-refundable deposit.
Once you’re officially booked in, we’ll be back in touch 5 weeks before your event to go over the finer details like timing, drinks, setup details, and anything else you need.
Your final payment, including a refundable bond, is due 4 weeks before the big day.
Want the quick version of our cancellation policy? If you cancel more than 30 days out, your deposit will be retained, but no additional fees apply. Full details are in our T&Cs, of course!
Can’t wait to hear from you!
All About hiring our Bar Staff...
How does hiring bar staff work?
Super easy! We’re here to make your event smooth, fun, and stress-free.
Here’s what you’ll need to provide:
We recommend having a chiller trailer (or something similar) on hand to keep everything perfectly chilled because no one wants warm beverages at a celebration!
Our awesome staff will arrive about 30 minutes before service starts to get everything set up and ready to roll. They’ll serve drinks from the bar only, so if you’d like table service, please let us know beforehand as we’ll need to bring along an extra team member to keep things running like clockwork!
Throughout the celebration, our team will collect empty glasses and bottles, keeping things nice and tidy. Then, about 30 minutes before bar service wraps up, we’ll switch guests over to eco-friendly disposable cups so we can pack up our glassware.
Going to keep partying after service ends? No worries—we’ll set up your bar for self-service so the good vibes can keep going!
Here’s what you’ll need to provide:
- A bar setup
- All drinks you’d like served
- Ice (salt ice for chilling, party ice for serving)
- Some drink storage—like a few chilly bins to keep things cool behind the bar
We recommend having a chiller trailer (or something similar) on hand to keep everything perfectly chilled because no one wants warm beverages at a celebration!
Our awesome staff will arrive about 30 minutes before service starts to get everything set up and ready to roll. They’ll serve drinks from the bar only, so if you’d like table service, please let us know beforehand as we’ll need to bring along an extra team member to keep things running like clockwork!
Throughout the celebration, our team will collect empty glasses and bottles, keeping things nice and tidy. Then, about 30 minutes before bar service wraps up, we’ll switch guests over to eco-friendly disposable cups so we can pack up our glassware.
Going to keep partying after service ends? No worries—we’ll set up your bar for self-service so the good vibes can keep going!
What are the Add-Ons all about?
Add-Ons are the little extras that make a big difference!
They’re available only when you book our bar staff packages and are priced a bit lower than usual because we bring them along with us on the day and take them away after the event... easy, breezy, no extra logistics needed.
The advantage of adding our table glassware? We’ll bring it to your event, set it out beautifully, collect it afterward, and take it all away—totally hassle-free for you!
Or add on a Champagne Tower — nothing says wow like a dazzling cascade of bubbly!
They’re available only when you book our bar staff packages and are priced a bit lower than usual because we bring them along with us on the day and take them away after the event... easy, breezy, no extra logistics needed.
The advantage of adding our table glassware? We’ll bring it to your event, set it out beautifully, collect it afterward, and take it all away—totally hassle-free for you!
Or add on a Champagne Tower — nothing says wow like a dazzling cascade of bubbly!
What area does your team cover?
Our awesome bar staff call the Manawatu and Whanganui region home, and travel is included anywhere within 50 km of Sanson.
Is your event a bit further? No problem—we just charge $2 per km beyond that.
Can't wait to join you!
Is your event a bit further? No problem—we just charge $2 per km beyond that.
Can't wait to join you!
Ready to book? Here’s how it all works!
We can’t wait to bring the good vibes to your big day!
Here’s how to make it official:
Quick note on cancellations: If you cancel more than 30 days out, we’ll retain your deposit but no extra charges apply. (The full policy is in the T&Cs.)
Here’s how to make it official:
- Send us an email with your event date, guest numbers, and venue.
- We’ll get back to you within 48 hours to confirm availability.
- If all’s good to go, we’ll send through a booking form and our T&Cs for you to review.
- To secure your date, just return the signed form and pay a 30% non-refundable deposit.
- Once you’re locked in, we’ll be in touch 5 weeks out to go over all the finer details—timing, drinks, setup, you name it!
- Final payment (including a refundable bond) is due 4 weeks before your event.
Quick note on cancellations: If you cancel more than 30 days out, we’ll retain your deposit but no extra charges apply. (The full policy is in the T&Cs.)
Let's talk hire items & flower walls...
Hiring a Flower Wall or Item? Here’s How It Works!
We’ve made it super easy—our pricing includes delivery, setup, pack down, and collection anywhere within a 50 km radius of Sanson. Too easy!
Hosting your event a bit further out? Just give us a shout—we’re happy to hit the road.
We usually deliver the day before your event and collect the day after, but if you need a little extra time with your hire, just let us know. We’re all about making things work for you!
Hosting your event a bit further out? Just give us a shout—we’re happy to hit the road.
We usually deliver the day before your event and collect the day after, but if you need a little extra time with your hire, just let us know. We’re all about making things work for you!
Can the items be used outside?
Most of our goodies are best kept indoors or under cover—like inside a venue or marquee—to keep them looking fab and party-ready.
The standalone bar is the exception, it can be used outside, but it’s not a fan of wild weather. So please don’t leave it out overnight or let it get caught in the rain. It’s all for outdoor fun, just not built for a downpour or a sleepover!
The standalone bar is the exception, it can be used outside, but it’s not a fan of wild weather. So please don’t leave it out overnight or let it get caught in the rain. It’s all for outdoor fun, just not built for a downpour or a sleepover!
Keen to lock something in? Let’s walk through the next steps.
Here’s how it works:
Cancellation? If it’s more than 30 days out, you’ll lose the deposit - but that’s it, no further fee will be payable. Check the T&Cs for full details.
Let’s make some magic happen!
- Shoot us an email with your date and venue location.
- We’ll reply within 48 hours to confirm availability.
- If the date’s all yours, we’ll send a booking form + T&Cs.
- To lock it in: sign the form + pay a 30% deposit (non-refundable).
- At 5 weeks out, we’ll touch base to finalise details.
- Your final payment (with refundable bond) is due 4 weeks before the event day.
Cancellation? If it’s more than 30 days out, you’ll lose the deposit - but that’s it, no further fee will be payable. Check the T&Cs for full details.
Let’s make some magic happen!
From then to now, a little bit of history...
so... Who's Behind the Vintage Events Company?
Hi, I’m Jemima — proud owner, bar boss, and all-round wedding enthusiast! With over 16 years of experience as a wedding coordinator and bar manager, creating unforgettable celebrations is truly my thing.
I’ve had the absolute joy of working with so many amazing couples over the years, helping bring their dream days to life at beautiful venues across the Coromandel. I’d been toying with the idea of going out on my own for a while… and when I stumbled across the idea of a vintage caravan bar, I just knew it was the perfect fit.
Speakeasy had been living rent-free in my imagination for a few years before I finally found him - about 9 years ago - and the renovation adventure began! That kicked off 8 incredible years of weddings and events as The Coromandel Caravan Bar.
Now, Speakeasy’s getting ready for his next chapter as the star of The Vintage Events Company (my new adventure!), and I can’t wait to help create even more unforgettable moments with you.
I’ve had the absolute joy of working with so many amazing couples over the years, helping bring their dream days to life at beautiful venues across the Coromandel. I’d been toying with the idea of going out on my own for a while… and when I stumbled across the idea of a vintage caravan bar, I just knew it was the perfect fit.
Speakeasy had been living rent-free in my imagination for a few years before I finally found him - about 9 years ago - and the renovation adventure began! That kicked off 8 incredible years of weddings and events as The Coromandel Caravan Bar.
Now, Speakeasy’s getting ready for his next chapter as the star of The Vintage Events Company (my new adventure!), and I can’t wait to help create even more unforgettable moments with you.
Get to Know Speakeasy...
Speakeasy is a 1965 Jackson Calypso caravan, proudly made right here in New Zealand. At 13 feet long, he’s little—but not too little—just the right size to roll in, serve up good vibes, and steal the spotlight!
I found this gem back in 2017 and spent six months lovingly transforming him in Port Charles, Coromandel. The result? One seriously cool vintage caravan bar that’s full of charm and character.
The decor had a few style makeovers along the way (I may have changed my mind just a few times), but in the end, we went with a crisp, clean white exterior that fits beautifully into any event. Step inside and you’ll spot touches of warm rimu wood and a dash of 1920s glam—because why not mix a little rustic charm with some Gatsby sparkle?
The name “Speakeasy” comes from the secret bars of the 1920s Prohibition era—hidden spots where people gathered to sip cocktails, share stories, and have a good time. We loved the idea of bringing that same sense of charm, fun, and a little old-school glamour to modern celebrations.
He’s one of a kind, and we can’t wait for you to meet him in person! 🥂
I found this gem back in 2017 and spent six months lovingly transforming him in Port Charles, Coromandel. The result? One seriously cool vintage caravan bar that’s full of charm and character.
The decor had a few style makeovers along the way (I may have changed my mind just a few times), but in the end, we went with a crisp, clean white exterior that fits beautifully into any event. Step inside and you’ll spot touches of warm rimu wood and a dash of 1920s glam—because why not mix a little rustic charm with some Gatsby sparkle?
The name “Speakeasy” comes from the secret bars of the 1920s Prohibition era—hidden spots where people gathered to sip cocktails, share stories, and have a good time. We loved the idea of bringing that same sense of charm, fun, and a little old-school glamour to modern celebrations.
He’s one of a kind, and we can’t wait for you to meet him in person! 🥂
