We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Zhamilya Koshmambetova. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Zhamilya below.

Zhamilya, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

Step into the fruity wonderland of AZAYA Fruits Design Studio, where FRUITS become ART.

Our tale begins with a simple tradition—a cake for tea time. But life, in its whimsical way, nudged us toward a juicier path. You see, our friends couldn’t always indulge in sugary confections. Health conditions, food allergies etc.

So, we decided instead of flour and frosting, we cradled fruits in our arms. But I couldn’t just toss them in a bag!

And thus, our fruit platters were born. Imagine a canvas—vibrant, alive, and waiting for artistic touch. I arranged fruits  on the beautiful platter. Our friends gasped. “Edible art! So unique!” they exclaimed, reaching for another slice.

One by one, they convinced me: “Start a business!” And so, I did. AZAYA Fruits Design Studio emerged—a place where desserts not only beautiful but also healthy . Parents are happy as their little ones devoured mango rainbows and other fruits. “Even the pickiest eaters!” they cheered.

But it wasn’t just about taste; it was about transforming communities. We saw it—the ripple effect. A child nibbling on a dragon fruit star. A grandparent savoring a honeydew crescent. Our platters became ambassadors of well-being, whispering, “You deserve this goodness.”

And the feedback? Oh, it flowed like a fruity river. “Your Fruit Platter designs stole the show!” said a blushing bride. “My toddler ate fruits because of you!” declared a relieved mom. I blushed too, knowing that my art touched hearts and bellies alike.

Zhamilya, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My name is Zhamilya Koshmambetova, and my life has been a canvas painted with vibrant hues, each stroke revealing a new chapter. I am the founder and designer behind AZAYA Fruits Design Studio, where creativity blossoms like ripe fruit in the sun.

But let’s rewind to the beginning—a time when I was a little girl in Kazakhstan, my heart already dancing to the rhythm of art. My mother, with her intuitive wisdom, whispered, “Zhamilya, you will be a designer.” Her words ignited a spark within me, and I twirled through life, exploring every beautiful idea that crossed my path. My both sisters are also very talented and creative people that always inspired me. So maybe it runs in the family.

In my teenage years, I waltzed into the world of ballroom dancing, my feet gliding across polished floors. Yet, destiny had more intricate choreography in store. I pirouetted from the dance floor to the realm of advertising, driven by a singular goal: to become an Art Director. Inspiration became my compass, and I embarked on a journey—a journey fueled by curiosity and wanderlust.

Travel became my muse. I wandered through bustling markets, ancient alleyways, and sun-kissed vineyards. I listened to the whispers of different cultures, their stories woven into the fabric of existence. And amidst it all, I knew—I would serve people. But how?

Life led me to the heartland of America, to the sunflower-strewn fields of Kansas. Here, my creative spirit yearned for expression. The conventional 9-to-5 grind held no allure; I craved a canvas that stretched beyond office walls. And so, from the cozy corners of my home, I embarked on an unexpected adventure—a journey into the world of Fruit Carving.

My friends, those gentle persuaders, urged me to carve my path. Armed with online resources and sheer determination, I honed my skills. The knife became my brush, and watermelons transformed into intricate sculptures. Each slice held a story—a celebration, a declaration of love, or a milestone. My talents converged, and the sweet aroma of creativity filled my kitchen.

AZAYA Fruits Design Studio was born—a haven where strawberries metamorphosed into delicate roses, and pineapples whispered secrets. I served not just fruit but emotions—expressions of joy, gratitude, and love. And as I delicately carved, I realized that my small business held immense power. It wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about touching hearts.

Positive impact became my mantra. With every watermelon basket and citrus centerpiece, I elevated special occasions. Birthdays, anniversaries, weddings—the fruit bore witness to life’s sweetest moments. And in this dance of flavors, I found purpose.

So, dear reader, as the sun dips below the Kansas horizon, know that my journey continues. I sharpen my knife, dream bigger, and conjure unique designs. For in the delicate curves of a mango or the seeds of a pomegranate, magic resides. And I, Zhamilya Koshmambetova, am the weaver of this fruity enchantment.

Remember, life is a fruit salad—bursting with colors, flavors, and surprises. So take a slice, savor the sweetness, and let your heart dance to the rhythm of possibility.

Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.

As I was saying, let me whisk you away into the vibrant tapestry of my life—a life that swirls with the colors of creativity, family bonds, and the sweet juiciness of ripe fruit. 🍎🍊🍇

Picture this: I’m a mom of three, juggling the delightful chaos of childhood giggles, sticky fingers, and bedtime stories. My heart swells with pride as I watch my little ones grow, their laughter echoing through our cozy home.

But there’s more—a secret ingredient that infuses my days with purpose and passion. His name is Yuri, my partner in this grand culinary adventure. From the very beginning, he’s been my unwavering anchor, the one who steadies my knife hand as I carve intricate designs into plump watermelons and honeydews. Yuri’s eyes light up when I unveil a new creation—a whimsical dragon, a cascading waterfall, or a bouquet of edible flowers. His encouragement fuels my creativity, and together, we dream big.

Fruit platters, my canvas, burst forth with life. Each slice tells a story—a burst of sunshine in a pineapple ring, the delicate curves of a strawberry, and the zesty tang of citrus. I pour my heart into every arrangement, infusing them with love and artistry. Friends and family marvel at my edible masterpieces.

Weddings, oh, the weddings! The grand stage where love dances, and I’m the conductor of flavor symphonies. Brides and grooms seek me out, entrusting their special day to my fruity alchemy. I’ve adorned banquet tables with cascades of mango roses, kiwi spirals, and grape clusters. The guests gasp, their eyes wide with wonder, as they snap photos for posterity. And there, in the heart of it all, I feel like a fairy godmother, turning ordinary fruit into enchantment.

Instagram and Facebook, my digital orchard. People share their joy—platters devoured at baby showers, birthdays, and anniversaries. The comments with heart emojis and exclamations of “How did you do that?” I chuckle, knowing that behind every slice lies a story—a late-night experiment, a happy accident, or a whispered prayer for perfection.

And then came the Bridal and Wedding EXPO. My heart raced as I set up my booth, the spotlight on my fruit sculptures. Brides-to-be twirled in their gowns, eyes wide with anticipation. “AZAYA Fruits Design Studio,” they whispered, tracing the gold letters on my banner. I shared my passion, handed out business cards, and watched as dreams took root. That day, I felt like a star—a fruity constellation in a galaxy of lace and tulle.

But the pièce de résistance? A 700-person wedding at Union Station. The air hummed with excitement as I arranged platters fit for royalty. The bride’s eyes shimmered, and the groom squeezed my hand. As they said their vows, I knew I was part of their love story—a sprinkle of sweetness in their forever.

So here I stand, grateful. Grateful for Yuri, for the friends who believed, and for the future that beckons. My fruit-carving tools glints in the morning sun, ready for the next adventure. And as I slice into a watermelon, I whisper a silent prayer: May my art nourish souls, one juicy bite at a time. 🍉✨

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Because we don’t just create fruit platters; we orchestrate edible symphonies. Let me peel back the layers and reveal the magic:

1. The Fruit Whisperers: Picture this—dew-kissed strawberries, sun-ripened peaches, and honeyed melons. We caress each fruit, listening for its secrets. Only the juiciest, most vibrant specimens make the cut. It’s like assembling a fruity Avengers team—the Hulk of pineapples, the Black Widow of blueberries, and the Iron Man of mangoes.
2. Designs That Pop: Our platters aren’t mere arrangements; they’re edible art installations. Imagine a watermelon carved into a blooming rose, its crimson petals unfurling. Or a kiwi transformed into a tropical sunburst, zesty and electric. These designs aren’t just for your taste buds; they’re for your soul.
3. Health Meets Happiness: Guilt-free indulgence? Absolutely! Bite into a dragon fruit star, and let its cosmic sweetness transport you. Our platters are like vitamins wrapped in rainbows—a burst of joy that nourishes both body and spirit.
4. From Backyard Picnics to Gala Galore: Whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch or a black-tie affair, we’ve got you covered. Weddings, birthdays, corporate shindigs—we sprinkle fruity magic everywhere. Even the Queen of England would raise an eyebrow (and her fork) in approval.
5. Tag Us, Share the Love: Our clients become our family. They snap photos, record videos, and tag us on social media. “Look what AZAYA conjured!” they exclaim. And we blush, knowing that our fruit art has become part of their memories.

Contact Info:

• E-mail: [email protected]
• Website: azayafruits.com
• Instagram: @azayafruits
• Facebook: fb.me/azayafruits
• TikTok: azayafruits
• Other: Business What’s app: +1 (913) 717-6768