Today we’d like to introduce you to Mariela Ramirez.
Hi Mariela, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started my culinary journey in 2013 when I was meal prepping for clients locally. I pursued a culinary career and soon thereafter and applied to the Natural Gourmet Institute in New York City. Thanks to winning a scholarship by Yoga Journal Magazine I was able to get half of my tuition covered and the rest is history. I graduated from the six months program and started cooking in all types of restaurants. I started off in cafes and then went into more fine dining independent establishments mainly as a prep cook in NYC, Miami and Portland, OR. In 2018, I decided to quit the hospitality industry after a work injury and took a three years break working in a corporate office setting. During the pandemic, I did a lot of meditating and came up with the idea for MoodBords. MoodBords are curated charcuterie bords based off the ‘Mood’ of your event that come with customized playlists. I launched in January 2021 and soon thereafter left my corporate job and got back into hospitality.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
It was hard to launch. I really doubted myself and my ability to hop back into hospitality. A month after launching, my business was published in Forbes and I started meeting more like-minded people in the industry and I’m now surrounded by so many people I truly admire. Every day is a challenge for me and I’m slowly getting better and better. There isn’t a day that goes by where I’m not challenged and motivated to outdo myself. This industry is very cutthroat and it’s very hard to find work-life balance but all in all following my passion has made me the happiest I’ve been in a long time.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a cook for a living. I specialize in charcuterie bords that are based off different moods. I think what sets me apart is the presentation and curating events with special touches like playlists and customized florals.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I was very shy and timid growing up. I’ve worked really hard on my self-confidence and self-esteem over the last few years. I’m very straightforward and honest now. My shyness really held me back for a long time and I am no longer tolerating that.
Pricing:
- $25-$250
Contact Info:
- Email: info@moodbords.com
- Instagram: @_moodbords
Image Credits
52 Chefs – Photographer.
Sponsored Shoutout:
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