Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Meng.
Monica, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I have always loved cooking and baking and when I had my daughters I knew that I wanted them to grow up in a home where they could look forward to home cooked meals and fresh baked goods. When it came time for their birthday celebrations, I decided I wanted to be the one to bake their birthday cakes and treats. Once they were old enough I would ask them what theme and type of cake they would like and I would make them the cake of their dreams. Each year my daughters would up the stakes and try to ask for cakes that were more and more elaborate. I found myself enjoying this and wishing that I didn’t only have two times a year to do this. At their birthday parties, our friends and family would always comment that I should start a business and cater. Usually, I would say “I don’t want what I love to do to become a job.”. But, after years of requests for treats and food from friends and family for their parties, I finally decided to open a side business of catering. I still have my full time,9-5 job, but on the side, I cater and finally get to do what I love! The joy I see on my customer’s faces when they take a bite of food I make or see the treats I make warms my heart. There is no better feeling than seeing the joy people receive from eating the food I make.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. I do have a daytime job, as well as a family that has very busy schedules. Sometimes I have to ask myself why I took a catering job right before a vacation or on a busy week. But, honestly, the everyday stresses of life instantly disappear the moment I enter the kitchen. The kitchen is my happy place and it helps me forget about my everyday stresses. In real life, my occupation is being a project manager, so when I approach my side business I have to project manage each catering order. I’ve realized that as long as I put together a good timeline and have open communication with my customers the result always turns out well!
Tell us more about the business.
Momfoodvenures is a company that doesn’t just cater events and parties but prides itself on providing food that not only fills customers bellies but also brings a smile to their face. We specialize in custom cakes and sweet treats and can organize and decorate the dessert table of your dreams! We also cater to Hawaiian and Italian food. And if there is something you want that isn’t on the menu, we will find a way to create what you want.
Momfoodventures prides itself on it’s ability to be flexible and accommodating. As a mom to two girls, I understand that life loves to throw you challenges and unexpected things. I like to let my customers know that I don’t want to be one of those things in their life. If there isn’t something on my menu that you would like or if you have a tight timeline or specific budget, I will work with you to ensure you get what you need!
I think what sets Momfoodventures apart from others is the love I put into everything I make. With everything that I create I leave a little piece of my heart in it. I believe that because of this you can taste the difference in my food. It has. real “mom’s home cooked” taste and feel.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
The role of luck good or bad has played a role throughout my life and now business. I think that whether good or bad, luck is there to help teach you something you didn’t know about yourself and move on to be someone better. I have been very fortunate and lucky to have, had the amount of business I have had this past year. I started Momfoodventures at the beginning of 2019 and since January have had a steady flow of orders every month. My family and friends have been such great supports in my life not only by being there emotionally but also promoting my business and finding me new customers. I feel very lucky to have such wonderful friends and family.
I especially feel blessed and fortunate to have an amazing husband and daughters who support me. Starting this business does take me away from them a little more than before, but they have been nothing but supportive and loving. They encourage me to do the best that I can and push me to make my business successful. I feel so incredibly lucky to have a husband who helps pick up the slack at home while I pursue my dreams and two sweet daughters who love to taste test mommy’s creations!
Contact Info:
- Phone: 858-354-8562
- Email: momfoodventures@gmail.com
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