Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexa Perez.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My culinary adventure began in 2020 when I applied to the Miami Culinary Institute in South Florida. Prior to becoming a chef apprentice at the Miami Culinary Institute, my studies and professional work experience was directed towards hospitality and event planning. I received a Bachelor’s in Tourism and Events from the University of Florida and later received a master’s degree in Hospitality Management from Florida International University.
Food has always played an important role in my life. Growing up, I saw how food brought my family together. Food creates fond childhood memories, and it can bring awareness to enrich family heritages and cultures, including my own Cuban American culture. After attending culinary school, my professional interests shifted from event planning to the savory side of the kitchen.
In 2020, I decided to pursue a personal dream of starting my own business allowing me to open up my kitchen and share my talents of cooking. I have been in business for over 2 years, and I have been lucky enough to share my delicious food with hundreds of Miami locals. While I specialize in cooking freshly baked goods, I have also catered countless events including birthdays, showers, corporate events, and school events, among many others. Whether I am baking in the kitchen or catering an event, I curate the entire experience for my customers. And I love connecting with each of my customers on a personal level.
I take pride in serving food that I would serve in my own home. I am constantly seeking to come up with new and innovative recipes that appeals to the customers and re-invent our understanding of food. Each dish that leaves my kitchen is carefully curated with the freshest and most flavorful ingredients. From start to finish, it is my goal to provide a personable experience with each and every client.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I’ve been very fortunate to have the support of my friends and family and have acquired many new customers throughout my journey as a chef. As a small business owner, the biggest obstacle I have faced is having to operate a business while also assuming many other roles including sales, finance, marketing, accounting, operations, and management. While I enjoy running my business on my own, I am faced daily with challenges on how to balance these roles. As I continue to grow, I anticipate opening up my very own commercial kitchen space and hire employees to help out with my increasing workload.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
By Chef Lex focuses on seasonal freshly baked goods and catering services. With each season that passes, I like to create new and innovative, made-to-order products with quality ingredients and deliver them with impeccable service. I take pride in offering fresh ingredients that I would serve in my own home. Everything I do is focused on providing premium services, innovative dishes, and a personable experience.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My mentors have been all of the incredible and talented chefs who I’ve had the privilege of learning from and working with. The one I’ve learned the most from and has been my inspiration is my grandmother. As a Cuban American, my grandmother’s recipes keep me and my family’s roots alive through her cooking. Some of her very own recipes have been woven into my everyday cooking. My grandmother has taught me not just how to cook but also about incorporating life experiences into each recipe that makes each dish wonderful.
Contact Info:
- Website: bycheflex.com
- Instagram: bycheflex_
Image Credits
@kgohhsnap
