We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Mikayla Jeanmary. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Mikayla below.
Alright, Mikayla thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you tell us about a time where you or your team really helped a customer get an amazing result?
A client named Joe was planning his baby shower and wanted everything to be perfect, especially the food, as it was a central part of the celebration. He envisioned a menu that reflected both him and his partner’s diverse cultural backgrounds, but he was unsure how to blend these cuisines seamlessly. Additionally, Joe was concerned about accommodating various dietary restrictions among his guests, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and nut-free options.
Joe approached a catering company known for its creativity and flexibility: Mimisislandfood. During the initial consultation, the catering team listened carefully to Joe’s vision and concerns. We proposed a fusion menu that combined elements from both cultures, offering a unique culinary experience that would delight all guests. The team also ensured that each dish could be adapted to meet dietary needs without compromising on flavor or presentation.
In the weeks leading up to the baby shower, mimis catering team worked closely with Joe, providing tastings and making adjustments based on his feedback. We also coordinated with the venue to ensure a smooth setup and service on the day of the event.
On the day of the baby shower, the catering team executed the plan flawlessly. The guests were treated to a beautifully presented and delicious meal that celebrated the couple’s heritage Jamaican cuisine. The attention to detail and the ability to cater to various dietary needs were particularly appreciated by the guests, many of whom commented on how inclusive and thoughtful the menu was.
The success of the catering not only contributed to the overall joy and satisfaction of the baby shower but also left a lasting impression on Joe’s and his guests. It was meaningful because it demonstrated the power of collaboration and creativity in bringing a client’s vision to life, ensuring that everyone felt included and valued in the celebration.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Hello! My name is Mikayla Jean, I am a proud mother and the owner of Mimi’s Island, a catering service specializing in authentic Haitian and Jamaican cuisine. My journey into the culinary world began with a profound passion for cooking and a love for food. I draw inspiration from the rich flavors and vibrant culture of my heritage. Growing up, I was immersed in the aromas and tastes of traditional dishes prepared by the remarkable women in my family: my mother , my aunts and my grandmother. This nurturing environment instilled in me a passion for sharing these culinary experiences with others.
I began cooking at the age of 8 or 9 in my mother’s kitchen in New York, with my first creation being mac and cheese. During high school, I frequently cooked for friends who would gather at my home in Florida after school. As my skills developed, I expanded to meal prepping for neighbors, friends, and family, even shipping meals overnight to those in other states.
At Mimi’s Island, we offer a comprehensive range of services, including catering for weddings, corporate events, private parties, meal preps and more. Our menu features a variety of traditional Haitian and Jamaican dishes, such as jerk chicken, griot, rice and peas, oxtail, diri djon djon (also known as black mushroom rice), plantains & much more! Each dish is prepared with fresh ingredients, authentic spices, and epis, a traditional Haitian herb blend. We also offer customized menu options to accommodate dietary preferences, ensuring a unique and memorable experience for every client.
One of the primary challenges we address for our clients is the difficulty in finding authentic Caribbean cuisine that truly captures the essence of the islands. At Mimi’s Island, we pride ourselves on delivering not just food, but an immersive experience that transports our clients and their guests to the Caribbean through both taste and presentation. Our commitment to authenticity, quality, and exceptional customer service distinguishes us in the industry. We believe that every dish tells a story, and we are dedicated to sharing the rich cultural narratives of Haiti and Jamaica through our culinary offerings.
I take great pride in the positive feedback we receive from our clients, who often express how our food evokes memories of home or introduces them to new and exciting flavors. It is immensely rewarding to know that we can bring joy and satisfaction to people through our culinary creations.
To potential clients and followers, I want to assure you that Mimi’s Island is committed to providing an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the vibrant cultures of Haiti and Jamaica. Whether you are planning a large event or an intimate gathering, we are here to make your occasion special with our delicious and authentic cuisine. Thank you for considering us for your catering needs, and we look forward to the opportunity to serve you.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
In the journey of building Mimi’s Island Food, a significant lesson I had to unlearn was the notion that success is solely defined by rapid growth and expansion. Early on, I believed that expanding the business quickly would be the best way to establish a strong market presence. This mindset led to a hasty decision to take on multiple large-scale events simultaneously, stretching our resources and capabilities thin.
The turning point came when we faced logistical challenges that impacted our ability to deliver the high-quality, authentic cuisine we promised. While we managed to fulfill our commitments, the experience highlighted the risk of overextending and the importance of maintaining quality over quantity.
This situation taught me that measured, sustainable growth—not just rapid expansion—is essential to building a reputable and resilient business. By prioritizing consistency and customer satisfaction, we ensured that every event received the attention and quality it deserved. This allowed us to grow organically through positive word-of-mouth and strong client relationships, ultimately laying a more solid foundation for Mimi’s Island Food.
Conversations about M&A are often focused on multibillion dollar transactions – but M&A can be an important part of a small or medium business owner’s journey. We’d love to hear about your experience with selling businesses.
Mador Skin, a skincare business, was successfully sold.
Mador Skin started as a passion project, focusing on natural and sustainable skincare products. Such as body butters , homemade soaps , body sprays and more! Over the years, it grew into a reputable brand with a loyal customer base. As the business matured, the decision was made to sell it to pursue new ventures, such as Mimi’s Island Food.
The Sale Process:
Preparation and Valuation: The first step was to prepare the business for sale. This involved conducting a thorough valuation to understand its worth. Factors like brand reputation, customer loyalty, product uniqueness, and financial performance were considered. And signing the business name to my county court house.
Organizing Financials: Detailed and transparent financial records were crucial. This included profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. Having organized financials helped build trust with potential buyers.
Streamlining Operations: To make Mador Skin more attractive to buyers, operations were streamlined. Processes were documented, and key staff were trained to ensure the business could run smoothly without the original owner’s constant involvement.
Marketing the Sale: The business was marketed to potential buyers who aligned with its values and vision. This involved reaching out to industry contacts, using business brokers, and leveraging networks to find interested parties.
Negotiation and Due Diligence: Once potential buyers were identified, negotiations began. It was important to find a buyer who not only offered a fair price but also shared a commitment to maintaining the brand’s ethos. Due diligence was conducted to ensure the buyer’s credibility and capability to take the business forward.
Transition Planning: A transition plan was developed to ensure a smooth handover. This included introducing the new owner to key clients and suppliers, and providing support during the initial phase post-sale.
Lessons Learned:
Know Your Value: Understanding what makes your business unique and valuable is crucial. This helps in setting a realistic price and finding the right buyer.
Prepare Early: Start preparing for a sale well in advance. This includes organizing financials, streamlining operations, and resolving any legal or compliance issues.
Find the Right Fit: Look for buyers who align with your business values and vision. This ensures the legacy of your business continues in the right hands.
Professional Guidance: Engage professionals like business brokers, accountants, and legal advisors to navigate the complexities of selling a business.
Plan for Transition: A well-thought-out transition plan can help maintain business continuity and reassure stakeholders during the change in ownership.
By successfully selling Mador Skin, the experience provided valuable insights and resources that could be applied to future entrepreneurial endeavors, such as launching Mimi’s Island Food. Most important rule always follow your heart ! Mimi’s island is dream come true!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mimisislandfood.com/
- Instagram: Mimisislandfood
- Other: Tik tok : Mimisislandfood
