For our April Branch of the Month, we’re thrilled to feature Tap Truck East San Diego, a family-run operation led by the dynamic duo Tim and Karina Stone. Since launching in December 2023, they’ve made a big impression across their East San Diego territory—pouring at everything from weddings and school festivals to car shows and fundraisers. But their Tap Truck journey didn’t begin at an event or through social media. It started in a body shop.

“I found out about Tap Truck in September 2023,” Tim explains. “I was at one of my real estate clients’ body shops—he’s a big car guy—getting work done on my car, and there it was. A beautiful work of art with five taps in the bed. It was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen. I called my wife right away and said, ‘I found our next business.’” With their family’s 1954 Chevy 3100 already in their possession for over a decade, everything clicked. “We were immediately hooked,” he added.

That classic 1954 Chevy now serves as the face of Tap Truck East San Diego. With a 383 stroker engine and a turbo 350 transmission, it’s not only eye-catching but high-performing—perfect for hauling, pouring, and drawing crowds. And yes, they’ve already thought about a second truck. “We’d love to add a 1950s panel van when the business supports it,” says Tim. “We used one from another owner once and it’s clear—it’s the best vehicle for the job.”

Starting a new business is never easy, and the Stones are honest about their learning curve. “I had no idea what to expect coming into this space,” Tim shares. “I didn't understand the business or who my market was.” But after six months of observation, hustle, and learning, they found their groove. “I figured out my three buckets of business, and now we’re off and running.”

Those three buckets? Weddings, corporate events, and local community events. Weddings are already going strong, but now their focus is on growing their corporate relationships. “We’re planning some paid advertising in addition to our organic reach,” says Karina, the creative force behind the operation.

One of their biggest operational challenges has been mastering event packouts—“not over- or under-packing,” as Tim puts it—but they’ve dialed that in with experience and good planning. “Working off the checklist is a game-changer. You don’t want to forget anything when you're miles from home with a full setup.”

Serving Lakeside, Ramona, Alpine, and Santee, Tap Truck East San Diego has become a fixture in the community. A large part of their success has come from saying “yes” to opportunities—especially in school networks. “We’ve become the go-to for many schools, both public and private,” Tim says. “We bring our non-alcoholic menu to sanctioned events, and that leads to more business.”

And their non-alcoholic offerings are more than just soda. “About half of our business is POS (point-of-sale) sales for non-alcoholic drinks,” says Karina. “We’ve done really well with boba teas, coffee products, and ice cream floats.” This beverage variety has helped them tap into a whole new clientele and stand out in a competitive San Diego market.

Some of their favorite venues include the Lake Cuyamaca Old Firehouse Event Center, a picturesque mountain location with laid-back charm. “The people there are super cool and easygoing—it’s a pleasure to be there,” Tim says.

While they serve a wide variety of events, car shows hold a special place in their hearts. “Those are our people,” Tim says. “They know how to party, and they appreciate what we’ve built. We love being around others who get excited about classic cars.”

Being based in one of the nation’s most vibrant craft beer scenes, Tap Truck East San Diego proudly supports and pours from local favorites. “San Diego is a hotbed for small brewers,” Tim shares, “but the industry is hurting due to rising costs and declining consumption among younger generations—it’ll be exciting to see who emerges as a favorite.” Some of their go-to breweries include Stone Brewing, Firestone Walker, and AleSmith—all known for producing high-quality, bold craft beers that pair perfectly with events of all sizes. With so much change in the local scene, Tim and Karina are even keeping an eye on potential opportunities in brewing themselves. “There’s a lot of market space freeing up—we might even enter the brewing industry one day.”

In true Tap Truck style, Tim and Karina bring more than just beverages to their events—they bring energy, personality, and family values. Married for 8 years and together for 13, they work as a team despite their different approaches. “Karina is very creative and a perfectionist,” Tim says. “I move quickly and call it ‘efficiency.’ I talk a lot and can sell anything to anyone who will listen.”

Their two boys, ages 8 and 10, even pitch in when they can— the non-alcoholic events of course. “It’s fun for us to involve them. We’re a very active family who loves to travel and experience other cultures,” says Karina, who grew up near the San Diego-Tijuana border. Tim, originally from Dayton, Ohio, came to California in 2009 via the U.S. Marine Corps.

If there’s one thing the Stones emphasize, it’s to get involved early and often. “Go to as many free events as you can and give out samples of non-alcoholic beverages,” Tim recommends. “This gets your brand out there and brings in more business.”

He also stresses the importance of being open to market trends and staying flexible with your beverage offerings. “Be willing to try new drinks—the market is always evolving,” he adds. And of course, never forget the importance of vehicle care. “Classic cars are very fickle, especially when you drive them as much as we do.”

What’s been the most rewarding part of joining Tap Truck? “The business model is amazing,” says Tim. “But what really makes it work is the support. Anyone can put taps on a truck—but it’s the Tap Truck organization that gives you the tools to be successful. Having Corbin so close has been a huge advantage. He’s become a good friend and champion for our business.”

From their love of classic cars to their growing client base, Tim and Karina have created something truly special in East San Diego. Their story is one of passion, adaptability, and community—exactly what Tap Truck is all about. Here’s to Tap Truck East San Diego, our April Branch of the Month! 🍻

If you’re interested in booking Tap Truck East San Diego for your next event or simply want to follow along with Tim and Katrina's journey, reach out via taptruckeastsandiego@gmail.com. You can also follow them on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated on their latest events and offerings!

Thinking of joining the Tap Truck family? Tim and Karina's journey prove that passion and a love for community can create something truly special. Whether you’re inspired by the classic cars, the craft beverages, or the unforgettable experiences, becoming a Tap Truck USA licensee might just be your next big adventure. Visit our 'Start A Tap Truck Page' to learn more and start your journey today!