Busy Little Bee

A one-of-a-kind mobile bar that gets the job done

By Rebecca Voigt

Photo by Ellie Frances Photography

Scooter, truck, bar cart — Emily Haan’s Italian-made Piaggio Ape (pronounced ah-pay) goes by many names. Haan sourced the versatile vehicle from a California scooter shop in 2021, and after an extensive facelift, the Ape was transformed into a darling mobile bar — and The Third Wheel was born.

“I went to school for hospitality and tourism management and have always had a passion for events,” Haan says. “I knew I wanted to have my own business at some point, and that’s where The Third Wheel stemmed from.”

When the Ape arrived from California, Haan says it was “a white, rusty little truck with a horseshoe affixed to the backend.” But she knew it was perfect for her mobile bar concept. “Ape translates to ‘bee’ in Italian, and it’s known to be a ‘worker bee’ vehicle in Italy,” she says. “They’re able to fit through the narrow streets of Italy and carry heavy materials. What better for navigating venues, yards, and event spaces while serving all types of beverages?”

Photo by Chelsey Barhorst Photography

Alongside her husband, Brad, Haan transformed the rusty little worker bee into a chic, camera-ready mobile bar with a sage green exterior, wood handled tap system, marble tile backsplash, and brass detailing. As a final touch, Haan worked with a local Detroit artist, Mark Serra, who hand painted the company’s logos using gold leaf.

Now entering its third season, the Ape — and two recently introduced stand-alone bars — can be found at weddings and events throughout the Metro Detroit area, serving everything from beer, wine, and cocktails to cold brew, kombucha, lemonade, and more on tap.

Photo by Chelsey Barhorst Photography

“Although it isn’t a classic bar service where we create cocktails onsite, I spend a lot of time up front discussing overall vision and experience to curate a custom menu for each event,” Haan says. “I’m here for the client and will meet their needs — from matching an overall color scheme to a specific alcohol preference, I love getting creative. I am always advocating for a fresh floral garnish or something fun.”

Services begin at $1,250. To learn more visit thethirdwheelmi.com.