Today we’d like to introduce you to Kennedi Swanks
Hi Kennedi, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey in hospitality began in high school and continued through college. After earning my degree from business school, I became a restaurant manager at Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen in Houston. Entrepreneurship has always been my goal, and this past summer, I turned that dream into reality by launching my own business, Chilled Beverages and Events Co.
The idea for my business was on my mind for years, sparked by my experience bartending at events for friends and family. I’ve always loved creating specialty cocktails to elevate any gathering. My vision truly came into focus after participating in the Houston Margarita Festival the year before launching my business. That experience and background in restaurant management inspired me to expand my services by creating a commercial-grade margarita machine rental company that also offers professional bartending services.
Chilled Beverages and Events Co. serves a diverse range of clients, from children’s birthday parties to corporate events, ensuring every occasion is memorable, enjoyable, and stress-free.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Starting a business comes with its share of challenges, but overall, the experience has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve come to understand that launching and running a business is a full-time commitment in itself, and the biggest challenge lies in learning how to effectively manage all the moving parts.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I currently work as a web game development teacher, guiding middle school students in designing 2D and 3D video games from scratch, incorporating both animation and coding. Although my background is in hospitality, I took on this role during the pandemic and have been enjoying it ever since.
Some will say I am known for my personality and creativity.
I am most proud of the meaningful relationships I’ve gained from my college and career journey. These connections have broadened my perspective and opened up new opportunities. I believe my determination and optimism truly set me apart. I’m the kind of person who finds solutions, even in the most challenging situations, and will always strive to make things happen.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
The COVID-19 Crisis taught me the importance of never taking tomorrow for granted. It reinforced the value of acting on my intentions today because the future is uncertain, and tomorrow may not look anything like today.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Chilledbeveragesandeventsco
