The Dynamic Duo Behind Mac’s Daqs

In this monthly series, local realtor Andrea Schutter Riebeling does a Q & A with local business leaders about what inspires them. This month’s interview is with Kelsey Brooks of Macs Daqs in La Grange.

1.) What is your business? Mac’s Daqs bar + lounge

2.) How did you get started?

We originally started off just doing a mobile daiquiri bus at the Warrenton Antique Show. We would also pop around to different Fayette County events, such as weddings and the County Fair, and serve drinks. After about two years the idea blossomed into a full bar and we hit the ground running.

3.) How long have you been in business? Total 3.5 years but our bar and lounge has only been open for a year and a half.

4.) Is this a Family or Female business? My husband and I own the bar together but you won’t find us without our trusty sidekick – Ziggie dog.

.5.) What kind of service do you provide? Our location in La Grange offers a full bar as well as a 3,000 sq. ft. showroom that is great for private events. We also have our mobile bus we use to cater to parties, weddings, and more. Pretty much if you need drinks, Mac’s Daqs got you covered.

6.) Tell me something unique about your business?

We are constantly releasing new menus to keep things fresh. We are always eager to try new things involving our community in hopes everyone will be successful along the way. We also started working with non-profits, such as Habitat for Humanity and The Turtle Wing Foundation, to help our community and give back.

7.) What is your background? My husband and I met when I was at school at LSU. Mac was barbacking at a local bar I would frequent. I believe this is where the love for the bar life began. Although, we both have separate degrees and part time jobs while we run the bar, we are learning so much that helps us as business owners.

8.) What do you suggest to others who want to venture out and take a leap of action in the future of their career? As cliché as it sounds, you just have to do it. You have to take the first leap and then face each step one at a time, things will eventually fall in place. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, there’s always someone willing to lend a hand or may offer up some advice.

9.) Do you believe in college, trade school, or any training? I think it depends on what you want to do. If anything, I think it gives you time to figure out what you truly like, “grow up” a little bit and potentially give you the opportunity to meet people that can help you in the future. But it’s all about what you do with the time given.

10.) How did you decide to make La Grange your home? I grew up here and was lucky enough that Mac would follow me back from Baton Rouge. We do love the slow pace of the small town with all the bells and whistles we see slowly making its way into the area.