We’re looking forward to introducing you to Nada Ashoo Adjadj. Check out our conversation below.
Nada Ashoo, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What is a normal day like for you right now?
I usually star my mornings with a cup of coffee while checking my calendar to plan out my day. Once I’ve got a handle on my schedule, I go through my emails and post on all my social media channels.
Depending on the day, I might have meetings with clients or catch up with friends. Some days, I attend networking events to build connections and grow professionally.
In the afternoons, I typically focus on working on my orders, this is when I get into the core part of my business and creative work.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Growing up, I had the opportunity to live in several countries including Lebanon, Kuwait, Dubai, and Greece as my father was the Pepsi Cola Director for the Middle East, Africa and part of Asia. However, frequent relocations made it difficult for me to establish roots.
When I returned to Lebanon, my home town to attend the American University of Beirut, I was struck by the beautiful chocolate favors shops around the city. It was then that I realized that owning a business like this was my dream.
Chocolate Favors are an integral part of the Lebanese culture, but my business is broad and can used by any type of occasion – by all cultures and to me – no event is complete without them.
Although, it took me a long time to achieve my dream, I started my business 19 years ago after settling in San Diego many years prior. By deciding to follow my heart and start my own business is something I am so proud of and do not regret SoBelle Favors is a reality and I am grateful for the opportunity to make my dream come true.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My family were the first to recognize my talent long before I ever saw it in myself. Whether it was a holiday celebration, a simple family dinner, or brunch with friends, my table was always beautifully decorated with elegant and thoughtful touches. I helped my friends also with their events setup and decorations to elevate their events.
As an active member of my church, I was often asked to chair events such as New Year’s parties, anniversaries, and cultural gatherings. I consistently went above and beyond, and each event became an opportunity to express my creativity. It was during those moments that the idea of turning my passion into something more began to grow.
In 2006, I took my two daughters Tina & Diana to Lebanon . As adults they saw how my eyes lit up every time we pass a chocolate shop. I would stop and admire the beautiful window displays and carefully curated setups. I was completely captivated. That’s when my daughters looked at me and said, “Mom, go ahead with your dream. We support you 100%”.
That was the moment everything changed. With their encouragement, my dream became a reality and SoBelle Favors was born.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There was never a time I felt like giving up. Working with Chocolates and creating favors for joyful, meaningful celebrations bring me a deep sense of fulfillment.
Every time I prepare and decorate a chocolate favors, I’m filled with happiness, pride, and purpose. It’s more than just a business, it’s a tradition, a passion, and a reflection of love.
Connecting with clients all over the U.S. and internationally adds an extra layer of joy and pride to my life. Knowing my work is part of celebrations around the world is truly an honor.
This journey brings me so much joy, and I plan to continue it for as long as I can.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely, The positive energy and joyful spirit I share with others are truly who I am at my core. I’ve always believed in approaching life with kindness, gratitude, and a friendly attitude. It’s something people often notice and appreciate most about me.
What you see in public is simple a reflection of the light and love I carry within.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I have just shipped or delivered an order and I know that my clients are genuinely happy and impressed with my work. There’s something incredibly rewarding about hearing their praises and knowing they truly appreciate the effort and care I put into creating each piece of the chocolate favor.
It brings me a deep sense of satisfaction and joy, especially knowing that the quality of our chocolates has made a meaningful impression.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sobellefavors.com
- Instagram: sobelle_favors
- Linkedin: SoBelle Favors
- Twitter: SoBelle Favors
- Facebook: SoBelle Favors
- Yelp: SoBelle Favors
- Youtube: SoBelle Favors
