We recently connected with Nija Wiggins and have shared our conversation below.

Nija, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

My most joyous moments were always at the table, surrounded by family and food; Especially on Sundays when all of my cousins and aunts would gather down 28th Street at my grandmother’s (Momma Barlow’s) house. As soon as I got there I would jump at the opportunity to help cook and setup. My Aunt Juanita would always call me to assist her in catering gigs throughout the city and that was the spark to my restaurant idea. In 2019, I finally decided to save up and execute. I planted my foot on gourmet corn on the cob and popcorn. Introducing a more fun and creative flare to vegetables becoming the star of the dish and everything else a side. Due to my love for various cuisines I Incorporated recipes that would satisfy a range of taste palettes.
I always believed that food was fellowship. I brings everyone together no matter the race, age, gender or beliefs. And living in a society that tries to separate us constantly there is no denying that everyone loves to eat. And that makes us all the same.

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.

I come from a background of great cooks. I love food and more importantly providing a unique experience when you try my food. Growing up we had a beach house and I always wanted to have a restaurant on the boardwalk in Ocean City New Jersey serving my favorite vegetable which was Corn on the Cob. Due to not having the capital for a brick and mortar I saved up to purchase a second hand food cart to build the relationships that I needed to grow. I learned that having a mobile business was perfect, it allowed me to popup in different locations and provide my service everywhere. Something delicious and quick that covers all taste pallet’s without being heavy. You can continue running errands, sight-see, go back to work or relax after you visit the cart. Our food is for everyone.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Building a social media presence isn’t an over night success. I started promoting Corneey’s on my personal page by asking my friends to follow me and to stop by the cart to try my food. Not long after that, they began to repost my food and rave about how they enjoyed it. From there I started to gain more followers and more customers. My advice for anyone that would like to gain a social media audience is to provide customers with a great experience. That includes your products and service. If they enjoy it, they will tell everyone about it.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

When you are working in your purpose it is easy to build a great representation in the market. I studied and continued to be the student. You will never know enough about your business. I joined as many cohorts for entrepreneurs that I could to build knowledge and meet others in the same field. Lastly, connected with local council members for community events within the city.      

Contact Info:

• Website: www.corneeys.com
• Instagram: http://Instagram.com/corneeys