We had the good fortune of connecting with Akilee Kelly-Esek and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Akilee, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I really wanted to start my own business so that I could satisfy my desire to feed people good food. My late father always made the kitchen a place of love and deliciousness and I wanted to continue that through my food and hopefully allow others to feel the love as well.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I am the owner of Akilee Cooks Catering. We specialize in preparing weekly meal preps and catering events. Our flavor profile sets us apart from other businesses because we use fresh ingredients, fresh herbs and seasonings to ignite your palette. We also have a specialty deviled egg line that promises to keep you coming back for more! Being a business owner is not an easy task! This has been a very challenging venture, but it has also been very rewarding. There is always something to learn, from financial lessons, to marketing, to just building Your brand to be the best that it can be. The biggest challenge we have had to endure is pushing forward through the covid 19 pandemic. With social gatherings and social restrictions, it has been a challenge keep business flowing. But even with the pandemic we are still pushing through and we are becoming more creative with our brand as a result.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are several individuals that have helped me come as far as I have with my business. I would dedicate my shoutout to Alicia of Alicia’s Sweet Obsessions and Ariel of Aryce Designs. These amazing and most talented business owners have always been there for me and have supported me and my business efforts and for that I am forever grateful.

Instagram: @akileecookscatering

Facebook: @akileecookscatering

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