We recently connected with Unika Noiel and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Unika, thanks for joining us today. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?
In the early 2000’s, I was given a delta-9 cannabis infused lollipop that forever changed my view of cannabis. From here I would spend countless hours reading scientific papers and anecdotal accounts, educating myself on things such as “the entourage effect,” terpenes, cannabinoids and their function in nature and our bodies. As a professional cook whose family has a history of cancers, chronic pain, high blood pressure and diabetes, I began to explore ways to introduce cannabis as medicine into everyday foods (with a focus on the savory). As I then shared my culinary experiments with others, the reports of positive health outcomes fueled my desire to further educate others on how to do the same. And thus, LUVN Kitchn was born. Currently we are furthering our mission by cultivating and creating safe spaces for adults to explore all that this plant has to offer in a variety of of expressions, while enaging with like-minded creatives.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I officially got into the culinary cannabis space after being enlightened to its healing medicinal properties. In the course of trying to make wholesome edible medicine for cannabis patients, I would have items lab tested, and then conduct research on the results. As I learned more about the cannabinoids present in them, I would also receive anecdotal reports confirming the effects: melanomas disappearing after a high dose, full spectrum concentrate regimen; stage 4 cancer patients regaining appetite; elderly heart failure patients finding relief from pain, etc. I’m forever in love with the feeling of helping other people feel better – (regimentally or recreationally) mentally, physically and emotionally, using cannabis as plant medicine.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
I think one of the most important lessons I’ve had to unlearn, was “take every meeting”. You don’t have to take every meeting. I have spent countless hours in meetings with people with great ideas and no follow through. I’ve taken my family with me to (what turned out to be) pointless presentations of product, walkthroughs on spaces for co-branding opportunities, etc. and essentially been ghosted.
When you’re on to something and have passion for it, people are eager to partner with and/or “support” you in various ways. Research them as much as you can. Ask your other contacts if they know anyone that has done business with them and go into those meetings with your eyes open. Be sure they’re the right partner for you. Don’t say yes when your gut says no, and don’t be afraid to let them know what your time is worth. They’ll be less likely to waste it.
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
Post-pandemic, in-home cooking classes have definitely been an effective way of growing my clientele over the past year and a half. During the shutdowns many of us grew used to spending time at home in small groups, and I find that trend still continues – people are still looking for activities to gather in their homes and enjoy with friends. By teaching cooking classes in their homes, I have an opportunity to meet people, network and offer additional services such as meal prep and catering. I’ve met some of my best clients this way, and now they’re like family!
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
I think one of the most important lessons I’ve had to unlearn, was “take every meeting”. You don’t have to take every meeting. I have spent countless hours in meetings with people with great ideas and no follow through. I’ve taken my family with me to (what turned out to be) pointless presentations of product, walkthroughs on spaces for co-branding opportunities, etc. and essentially been ghosted.
When you’re on to something and have passion for it, people are eager to partner with and/or “support” you in various ways. Research them as much as you can. Ask your other contacts if they know anyone that has done business with them and go into those meetings with your eyes open. Be sure they’re the right partner for you. Don’t say yes when your gut says no, and don’t be afraid to let them know what your time is worth. They’ll be less likely to waste it.
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
Post-pandemic, in-home cooking classes have definitely been an effective way of growing my clientele over the past year and a half. During the shutdowns many of us grew used to spending time at home in small groups, and I find that trend still continues – people are still looking for activities to gather in their homes and enjoy with friends. By teaching cooking classes in their homes, I have an opportunity to meet people, network and offer additional services such as meal prep and catering. I’ve met some of my best clients this way, and now they’re like family!
Contact Info:
- Website: luvnkitchn.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/luvnkitchn
- Facebook: luvnkitchn