We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Noymenia Lewis. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Noymenia below.
Noymenia, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?
I have always been a Florida girl with love for good food. I worked in the food industry until I became a mother and made a move into Corporate America. During this time, I experienced potlucks and what a hassle they could be. People only wanted to bring plates, cups, and utensils, not food. I would collect everyone’s money and cook for my coworkers to ease this process. From there, I started hosting house parties and realized people really enjoyed my food, and I even told my manager I wanted to make a business out of cooking.
In 2018 I went through a breakup, and in talking to a friend, she decided to support me and purchased my first set of business cards. While networking, I met a lady that needed a caterer for an awards ceremony. We partnered again for brunch, and I later became a vendor selling my delicious food downtown. I brought 50 plates and completely sold out. My business picked up, and those business cards came in handy.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Hello. I’m Noymenia, a southern millennial from Florida that loves to cook. I started my brand working in Corporate America, cooking at potlucks no one else wanted to cook for. This, and growing up cooking with my family, gave me my start in catering.
A few years ago, I noticed the need for more variety in food here in San Antonio. I wanted to bring my Duval County, Florida, flare to the city and share some of the flavors I have experienced while living around the world. Sharing food from the soul comes from the culture and history embedded in me. My family recipes were passed down to me, and I am proud to continue them. My favorite is a highly seasoned brunch with a soulful flare. I like to think I make great food!
I am proud of the brand I have built. At every event, I get at least one new customer that wants me to cook for them. Making someone else happy with a creation of my own is some of my most proud moments.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
I started my business in 2018, ahead of the pandemic, but Covid changed everything. The pandemic caused a shift in my business, and I had to quickly transition from catering events to making family packs for people who wanted to eat out without going out. This included new menu options, delivery services, and internal processes. This was a good challenge for my business, and I have been growing ever since.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
When I started my business, I connected with people who would later be significant in my business’s growth. Some of these people were one-time clients; others were mentors instrumental in my business. So, when it comes to gaining new clients, it is networking, not just with potential clients but with other people in my industry, so we can partner and grow together. Additionally, I focus on ensuring my food is excellent, so my clients will tell others, and I develop content to share online for additional prospects.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://nomecateringsa.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nomescatering/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nomeliketocater/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nomescatering/
Image Credits
Salim Proctor