After earning her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s College of Social Sciences in 2020, Charissa Vallesteros took a bold leap—leaving behind restaurant shifts to launch her own business. Today, her mobile bartending company, Char’s Bar, is a popular choice for parties and events across Oʻahu.
“I just thought, I don’t want to be a bartender in the restaurant industry for much longer,” Vallesteros said. “During COVID-19, I decided to start my own mobile bartending business. We started off doing house parties, and then it just grew.”
Char’s Bar has become a huge success. With themed cocktails and custom menus tailored to each event, Vallesteros has created a business known for creativity and flair.
“I usually have in-depth discussions with clients to get a sense of their favorite flavor profiles, liquor preferences, and the overall vibe they want,” she said. “If it’s a nurse grad party, for example, we’ll incorporate things like syringes or a themed cocktail menu that ties into the nursing field.”
Staying connected through UH
The former UH Dance Team member credits her time at the university for fueling her entrepreneurial journey. She said the connections, support and school spirit she found on campus helped build the foundation for her business success.
“Especially in this day and age, staying connected to UH and the alumni community is such a good way to network, get to know your peers, and put your foot in doors that others have already walked through,” she said.
This year, Vallesteros will showcase Char’s Bar at the UH Alumni Makers’ Market on August 6, at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. She’s eager to connect with fellow grads who, like her, have transformed their UH education into something uniquely their own.
- UH Alumni Makers’ Market 2025 tickets are available now. General admission includes unlimited access to food and beverage stations.
“It’s really hard to make it out here on this island,” Vallesteros said, “so it’s nice to see people who have taken what they’ve learned, added their own style, and built something for the community.”
