Today we’d like to introduce you to Gnesha Nezri.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I grew up in the suburbs of New York and relocated three years ago to Boca Raton, FL with my wonderful husband and 4 children. All my work life was always spent at an office working behind a desk. A year after I moved to FL I was layed off from my existing position which I was working remotely. I believe there is always a reason for everything – Little did I know this would actually lead me to finally doing something that I absolutely love for a living.
I have always had a passion for art, but never thought I can use it in the workforce and create a business out of it. I started by researching carving knives and tools and then doing some basic practice, I started with just a few gift platters to friends to see their reaction.
The great feedback really gave me the motivation to take this to the next level and create a business out of this. I began marketing with social media. Instagram and Facebook these days are absolutely amazing ways to reach out to so many people. Surprised to get orders from out of state friends ordering platters as baby gifts and other celebrations to their friends/family in FL.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Some of my challenges in starting this business:
You always need a fresh supply of fruits, Customers are in a habit of last minute orders. We must be able to fulfill these. The fruit market is not around the corner. If I over purchase that leaves me with a loss on my end. If I purchase an exact amount, I may run short and have to purchase locally at a higher price.
Storage Space: Because we are dealing with perishable food products, we must have enough storage, refrigeration space until orders are delivered. The quality of fruits is crucial in customer satisfaction. Some fruits are seasonal.
Delivery options: Once the fruit arrangement is complete it must get delivered. We must always have a reliable driver/delivery person to work on getting deliveries done.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Fruitlicious – what should we know?
Our fruit carvings and displays are used as decorations and centerpieces for any occasion. We customize anything from small birthday platters or more elaborate reception presentations. Every platter is a custom work of art. Our specialty is personalizing each platter with detailed hand carved melons. Ex. logos, Names etc…. All platters are freshly cut and delivered as orders are placed. Our platters do not look anything like what you get at your local supermarket.
I am proud to be new in this industry and already connected with event planners and caterers who have reached out to me to place orders for their events.
We are based in Boca Raton Fl but deliver across South Florida: Hollywood, Miami Beach, and neighboring neighborhoods.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Perfection is the key in this business. I’m constantly improving my skill and coming up with new ideas.
Patience – I never hurry or rush to complete a carving as every detail is important in making a beautiful finished product. An eye and passion for art is certainly helpful.
Learning how to choose good quality fruit not only tasty but sometimes the outer color of the rind plays an important part too.
Pricing:
- popular 12″ platter – $35
- popular 14″ Platter – $45
Contact Info:
- Address: 980 N. Federal Hwy. #110, Boca Raton FL 33432
- Phone: 561-922-6899
- Email: orders@fruitliciousfl.com
- Instagram: fruitlicious_fl
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fruitliciousfl/
Getting in touch: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
