Meet Ivo Peshev | Founder and Managing Partner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ivo Peshev and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ivo, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting Flair Project was a natural evolution of my passion for hospitality, mixology, and creating unforgettable experiences. I wanted to build something that went beyond just serving drinks—I envisioned an immersive cocktail experience that combined artistry, precision, and top-tier service.

“I saw a gap in the market for a high-end, engaging bar experience that went beyond standard catering. My goal was to continue bringing hospitality to events while introducing a more client-centric approach—one that emphasizes craftsmanship, innovation, and a deep understanding of each event’s objectives. I wanted to ensure that both clients and their guests not only enjoyed exceptional cocktails but also felt a true sense of satisfaction from the overall event experience.

Entrepreneurship gave me the freedom to define my own standards, build an exceptional team, and push the boundaries of what a cocktail catering service could be. I knew it wouldn’t be easy, but I was confident that Flair Project could stand out by delivering not just exceptional cocktails, but a fully immersive and high-quality experience that goes beyond the menu.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Flair Project is more than just a cocktail catering service—it’s a commitment to excellence. We continuously strive to improve with every event, interaction, and business opportunity, allowing us to craft experiences that reflect each event’s unique energy, purpose, and audience. Building Flair Project wasn’t easy, but I wouldn’t trade the journey for anything. The hospitality industry demands passion, resilience, and adaptability, and one of our biggest challenges was earning trust—not just as a bar service but as a true partner in our clients’ success. Like many entrepreneurs, we faced tight budgets, long hours, and the pressure to prove ourselves in a competitive market. But rather than cutting corners, our team doubled down on quality, service, and innovation. The greatest lesson I’ve learned is that hospitality is about people, not just drinks. Guests remember how they feel, not just what they consume, and ensuring our clients feel confident and at ease from the very first interaction is our top priority. For aspiring entrepreneurs—stay committed, build the right team, and never compromise on your vision. Success follows those who lead with passion.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Honestly, this depends entirely on the friend—what they’re into, what they’re looking for, and what kind of experience they want to have. My two cities, Los Angeles and Santa Barbara has so much to offer, and I’d tailor the itinerary to make sure it’s exactly what they’d enjoy. But one thing is certain: I’d take them to places where I know hospitality is truly understood and practiced.

Whether it’s a top-tier restaurant, a casual café, or a hidden gem, I want them to feel welcomed, taken care of, and part of something special. Maybe it’s an intimate chef’s tasting menu, a day of wine tasting in Santa Ynez, a beachside cocktail at sunset, or a behind-the-scenes bar experience where the team takes pride in their craft.

It’s less about checking off a list of places and more about curating an experience that feels personal, effortless, and unforgettable. After all, hospitality isn’t just about great service—it’s about making people feel at home, no matter where they are

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Boris and I worked together in a bar in Bulgaria many years ago, and he was the one who opened my eyes to what this profession is really about. He taught me the importance of taking the craft seriously, respecting the customer, and delivering personalized solutions based on their needs rather than relying solely on past experiences. His mentorship instilled in me a deeper appreciation for hospitality—not just as a service, but as an art that requires thoughtfulness, adaptability, and a genuine commitment to the guest experience.

As I ventured into entrepreneurship, I also studied and drew inspiration from brands like Starbucks, Facebook, and Amazon—companies that have built not just successful businesses but also robust operational systems and deeply ingrained company cultures. One of the most profound examples for me has been Nike, whose dedication to branding, innovation, and pushing boundaries has always resonated with me. Their commitment to storytelling and creating a movement beyond just a product is something I admire and strive to incorporate into my own business approach.

Success is never a solo journey, and I’m incredibly grateful to the mentors, brands, and experiences that have shaped my path

Website: https://www.flairprojectsb.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flair_projectsb/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivo-peshev/

Image Credits
Daria Taylor Photography – https://dariataylor.com/about
Brian Kramer Photography – https://www.briankramer.net/