Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mel Velez, Founder of Chef MelVel, LLC., located in New York, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I teach virtual cooking and baking lessons via Zoom for home cooks of all ages and skill levels! My classes are technique-focused, meaning I provide recipes and ingredients, but my goal for every class is for students to understand the traditional cooking techniques behind the recipe. Recipes should be a guide, but we should prepare our food just how we like to eat it! Book a private one-on-one lesson, a couple's date night, birthday party, or group events for work or for fun! My virtual lessons are meant to be a stress-free, inclusive, safe space where all questions, comments, and concerns are welcome. I design my classes around the concept that we all have different palates, preferences, and even dietary restrictions, so most of the recipes can be adapted. Gluten-free, vegetable and meat-eaters are all welcome!!! My business was designed for home cooks who want to learn a new skill and have a good time with their friends and family. No special equipment or ingredients are required; we use what you have and find substitutions. All classes are BYOB and 420-friendly!!

Tell us about yourself

Hi! I'm Chef Mel! I've been in the culinary industry since 2013 when I graduated from culinary school. I've worked in both culinary and pastry kitchens. In 2016 I began working as a chef instructor and a personal chef, and soon after, I started my own personal chef business. What began as a means to cook for people flourished into a passion for cooking with people. I feel much more fulfilled in education than I did in production. I want home cooks and bakers to see how easy and fun it is to make their favorite dishes at home, even with no experience or special equipment. Connecting with people virtually from all over the country (planet soon 🤞) has been the most rewarding and interesting thing I've done, and I'm excited to see how many home cooks and bakers I can continue to connect with!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Honestly, being a business owner is a huge accomplishment in itself! The food industry is a tough one to maneuver and has gotten even tougher since the pandemic. I'm so so grateful to have the opportunity to not only continue to do what I love but to do it on my terms, in the comfort of my home kitchen. It's been a dream I never thought was possible as a chef!

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

Taxes, LOL! Aside from that, I would say it's important to remember that not everyone is going to be your ideal customer. It's been tough to hear feedback from people who didn't necessarily understand the concept of my business idea. But the reviews I've received from people after they've taken a class to remind me why I took this journey and to keep going.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Don't give up!! No matter how hard it may seem. The tide always goes back down.
  2. Just DO IT! Sometimes we are our biggest roadblocks without even realizing it. Chances are if you think it's a good idea, at least one other person will too.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Thank you so much for reading my story; I hope to cook with you soon! Check out the blog on my website for recipes to try at home, and join my mailing list for up-to-date info on classes!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.chefmelvel.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chefmelvel
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefmelvel/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-veléz-75048277/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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