We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Torey “VIVA” Evans . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Torey “VIVA” below.
Hi Torey “VIVA” , thanks for joining us today. Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.
As an event curator, I’d typically incorporate local food at my live pop-up music events. Whether that is having food vendors, food trucks, or local pastry chefs. At times I’d run into schedule conflicts with vendors. Being a creative entrepreneur I thought I’d take a swing at providing food and beverages at my Nothin’ But Luv Music Series launch event at XO Lounge in March of 2022. Not only did I provide the eats, but I also challenged myself to create a brand to present to my audience. Which is known today as Viva’s Vegan Burgers & More and Bomb AF Lemonade. It was a big hit the swing at honestly, we sold out the first of all products. We premiere the “Player 1” Vegan Cheese Burger and 3 flavors of “Bomb AF Lemonade” such as Carolina Classic Lemonade, Carolina Blue Raspberry, and our Lavish Lavender.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My journey in the entertainment industry started around 2008 inspired by my marketing teacher Mr. Walter T. Johnson, who opened a venue as a safe space for the youth of Greensboro (The Palace) located in Downtown Greensboro minutes away from North Carolina A&T. I’d experience a snapshot of what it is liked running a venue, marketing, and graphic design. I would eventually discover my skills as an Emcee/party host as well. I quickly made a name for myself early on by hosting and promoting the biggest events in the Triad.
As I continue my journey I’ve produced events in Los Angeles, hosted on the radio in San Diego, and gained entertainment business knowledge at The Los Angeles Film School in Hollywood, CA. Now I’m back home providing platforms for independent talent and creatives through the vessel of the MAD LUV Movement. Our mantra is “No Dream Left Behind, Manifest All Dreams”. I believe in collective success and building a strong supportive community. When you leave a LUV NATION event you will leave fulfilled and inspired. We have an open-door policy and invite people from all walks of life to participate in our experiences. Feel free to follow us on Instagram at @ManifestAllDreams.
How did you build your audience on social media?
The MADLUV Movement also known as the LUV NATION experiences helps us grow our following by interacting with peers and the community in real-time. When guests attend our events the positive energy and inspiring spirit in the room drive them to stay connected. Social media is a great place to connect and gain the interest of potential supporters. So at the life experiences, we ensure our host consistently encourages guests to follow our social media page. During the marketing campaign for the events, we gain new followers in the community through collective reshares, reposts, and general posts from participants and their supporters and family.
Can you open up about how you funded your business?
I fund my business with part-time and full-time jobs. I’ve even gone to obtain my license in insurance to create a stable income to support myself, and my family, and invest in my business ideas. I also provide graphic design services, photography, and branding for peers and other business owners in my network.
Contact Info:
- Website: VivasVeganBurgers.com
- Instagram: VivasVeganBurgers , @BombAFBeverages
Image Credits
Photography By: @Lona_pixels on Instagram.