Member Profile: Pura Vida Mobile Bartending
The Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to highlight Pura Vida Mobile Bartending in an interview with founder Martha Morales. Pura Vida is a professional dry-hire bartending company based in the Eugene/Springfield area, bringing a personal, joyful touch to events of all kinds. Through speaking with Martha, the Chamber learned more about her inspiration, the meaning behind “Pura Vida,” and how her team is helping clients celebrate life’s special moments—one drink at a time.
Tell us a little about Pura Vida Mobile Bartending.
Pura Vida Mobile Bartending is my heart and soul. We’re a professional dry-hire mobile bartending company based right here in Eugene and Springfield, Oregon, and we specialize in making every event feel joyful, effortless, and personal. Whether it’s a wedding, quinceañera, festival, private party, or corporate event, we bring the full experience—bartenders, mixers, garnishes, disposable drinkware, bar tools, and custom cocktail menus. Our clients provide the alcohol, and we take care of the rest.
The name “Pura Vida” is more than just a business name—it’s a way of life. In Costa Rica, it means “pure life” or “life is good,” and that’s exactly the kind of energy I want to bring to every event. It’s about living in the moment, celebrating with people you love, and sharing something special over a good drink.
What inspired you to create Pura Vida Mobile Bartending?
Honestly, it came from my love for people and the belief that something as simple as a drink can bring us closer together. I didn’t just want to pour drinks—I wanted to create experiences. Moments that make people smile, laugh, and feel connected.
“Pura Vida” represents how I try to live my life—staying present, finding joy in the little things, and never taking anything for granted. When someone is standing at our bar, I want them to feel that. I want them to feel welcome, relaxed, and like they’re exactly where they’re supposed to be.
My biggest inspiration has always been my parents. Their sacrifices, work ethic, and resilience made me who I am. They taught me to keep going no matter what and to pour my whole heart into what I do. This business is a reflection of that love and drive. I truly believe when you do what you love, people feel it—and I think that’s what makes Pura Vida different.
Where and how did you get started in this industry?
I started bartending for another company and instantly loved the energy, but I kept feeling like something was missing. Most of the time, I was just serving beer or wine, and I wanted to get more creative and connect with people on a deeper level. Something that stuck with me was how many guests would ask, “Do you have your own business?” or “Can I hire you directly?” So I took a leap of faith: I quit my job, signed up for bartending courses, studied the craft, watched competitions, read everything I could, and started building something that felt true to me. I dove into the business side too—figuring out what worked, what didn’t, and how I could create something unique and intentional. And that’s how Pura Vida Mobile Bartending was born—with passion, purpose, and a whole lot of heart.
What services do you offer, and what makes Pura Vida unique?
We offer full-service bartending designed around each client’s vision, with one important note: since we’re a dry-hire service, you provide the alcohol, and we handle everything else. That includes professional bartenders, signature cocktail design, plastic cups, mixers, garnishes, ice, bar tools, and complete bar setups. But truly, what sets Pura Vida apart is how much we care. We don’t just show up and serve drinks—we show up with intention, ready to be part of the celebration and make people feel cared for. Every event is personal to us. We match the vibe, the energy, the theme—whatever our clients are dreaming of, we help bring it to life.
We’re also proud to be a bilingual team (English and Spanish), which allows us to serve more of our diverse community with ease and comfort. We’re licensed, insured, and every bartender on our team is TIPS-certified, food handler certified, and trained in responsible alcohol service. But beyond the paperwork, we bring good vibes, professionalism, and a deep love for what we do.
What do you enjoy most about running Pura Vida?
Hands down—it’s the people. There’s something really special about being invited into someone’s celebration. We get to be part of weddings, birthdays, first dances, last toasts—all these unforgettable moments. Seeing people laugh, dance, toast, and just enjoy themselves makes everything worth it. It reminds me why I started this in the first place.
Do you have any advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Start where you are. You don’t need to have it all figured out—just take the first step and trust yourself. Don’t be afraid to fail. That’s how you learn. Keep your mind open and stay humble, but don’t lose sight of your vision. Your story, your background, your voice—those are your strengths. No one can bring what you bring. And most importantly, love what you do. When you lead with passion and heart, people feel it. That’s what builds something real.
What are Pura Vida’s plans for the future?
We’ve got some exciting things coming! Right now, we’re in the process of transforming a vintage horse trailer into a one-of-a-kind mobile bar. It’s going to be super-customizable—perfect for rustic, elegant, boho, or colorful themes. It’s all about elevating the experience.
We also plan to start offering cocktail-making classes, so people can learn to mix their favorite drinks and have fun doing it. Eventually, we want to add coffee bars, mimosa bars, hydration stations—so we can be part of events from morning to night.
And as we grow, we’re looking for ways to give back—to support local nonprofits and help the community that’s supported us from day one. Because to me, Pura Vida has always been about more than drinks. It’s about connection, celebration, and giving back.
Anything else you’d like to add?
At Pura Vida Mobile Bartending, we’re more than bartenders—we’re storytellers, team players, and people who genuinely care. Every drink we serve is crafted with love, and every event is an opportunity to spread joy. We’re proud to be part of Eugene and Springfield’s growing small business community, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you—the Pura Vida way. Follow us on Instagram @puravida_bartending and Facebook facebook.com/puravidamobilebartending!
