We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Yolanda Rhodes a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Yolanda, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today It’s easy to look at a business or industry as an outsider and assume it’s super profitable – but we’ve seen over and over again in our conversation with folks that most industries have factors that make profitability a challenge. What’s biggest challenge to profitability in your industry?
Catering and events companies face various challenges in maintaining profitability. One significant hurdle is fluctuating demand, as the industry is highly influenced by seasonal trends and economic conditions. Managing operational costs, including staffing, ingredients, and equipment, poses another difficulty. Striking a balance between offering competitive pricing and ensuring quality services requires strategic pricing strategies. Additionally, competition in the market can be fierce, making it essential for companies to differentiate themselves through innovative offerings and exceptional customer service. Navigating these challenges demands adaptability and efficient business planning for sustained profitability in the catering and events sector.

Yolanda, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m a retired Air Force veteran, during my years in the military, I learned the importance of people and how hospitality can bridge any differences between them! I have a heart for making people feel comfortable, safe, and happy, what better way to do that then by being able to share their special moments. At Chefella’s, we treat every occasion as a chance to gain new family! Sharing the joy of a Wedding, watching the laughter at a Birthday celebration or Anniversary Party! These are the moments you only get one chance to experience and we don’t take them lightly! It’s our sincere desire for them to know how much we care about each event down to the tiniest detail of a napkin folded just right. They become family because they come back after the Wedding for the baby shower, or just to say hi. We love those times!

How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?
This is a great question, like I said before, we consider all our clients family! We send them cards, and reach out to them with phone calls to just check in on them and make sure they’re doing well! When we hear of tragedy or loss in their lives we pray for them and even send them care packages and flowers. It’s the little things that make the most impact at times in our lives.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
The best source of new clients comes from past clients sharing their experience with us. They share our relationship with them during the process! From first contact we want them to feel special! This means that they will tell their friends and family about us! That’s the best way to build new client encounters.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.chefellascateringevents.com
Image Credits
Chefella’s

