Today we’d like to introduce you to Ariel Nelson.
Ariel, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
It’s funny because I actually wasn’t interested in cooking at all. It looked tiresome and way too challenging. Honestly, it wasn’t until I wanted to start eating cleaner for a trip I had come up that I decided to dabble in the kitchen so I could look awesome in a two-piece.
I’m a very social person and during the time of the beginning of my journey, I would always post videos on snapchat. I can’t lie, my first couple of times attempting dishes wasn’t the best but for some reason, I actually enjoyed it. lol
Before you know it I was posting all my creations, whether it was perfect or not. As I posted more and more, my friends/followers would reach out and compliment things such as “wow, this looks so good!” or “wow, when can you cook for me?”
I didn’t think they were serious because I’m like, huh? Me? I barely do this. Shortly after, I would invite close friends over and we would eat together. The confidence and love that was poured into me were unmatched. I dove right in and the rest is history in the making!
Has it been a smooth road?
In my opinion, I truly feel like every road to success will have hurdles and challenges what matters is how you conquer them. It takes A LOT of strength, especially mentally and emotionally, to stay on track. Struggles build character, it builds resilience. I’ve learned the importance of having a contract especially because I was new & independently owned, I’ve had to row a cart full of catering supplies down five flights because the elevator was broken, I’ve gotten into car accidents on the way to catering an event, the list goes on.
It’s imperative and important to give yourself a break. It’s important not to be too hard on yourself and it’s IMPORTANT to give yourself praise. No one fully knows or will understand the true feelings you feel daily, how much love, patience and time you’ve invested into building your brand. It’s important to remind yourself of how far you’ve come and how far you’re planning to go. Struggles are just another page in your story, it isn’t the final chapter.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a self-taught private chef specializing in Caribbean cuisine. I’m most proud of how I’ve built my brand. I love that I’m able to always incorporate new styles and not afraid of trial and error. I’m very excited to see where this journey continues to take me.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.entreesbyari.com
- Email: entreesbyari@gmail.com
- Instagram: instragram.com/entreesbyari
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