Today we’d like to introduce you to Ayesha Ramos.
Hi Ayesha, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
A humble Caribbean girl from the small twin-island state, Trinidad and Tobago. One of Trinidad’s strongest attributes is tied to the cosmopolitan society where various cultures and foods unite us, family, friends, and strangers. The different cuisines vary from Indian, Creole, Spanish, Chinese, Arabic and Mediterranean to just list a few where everyone indulges and shares meals. My culture has always been inclusive but not limited to joyous times, happy people living an island life surrounded by delicious cuisine and festive drinks.
Growing up within a family who knows how to cook is always testing your palette, but there is an increased pressure for the next generation with high culinary expectations to be met. As a child attending parties, I would eat everything, but as I grew older, I developed stomach complications. I was forced to quickly learn how to utilize fresh, raw ingredients as well as diligently read nutrition labels, especially seeking those with unhealthy dyes. It was not an easy transition going from what you believe is coded as healthy versus what is truly really healthy. Struggling with my stomach issues has made me more health conscious with my daily intake of foods with hopes to show and share with others how you can eat good with healthier ingredients. I now pride myself on being more conscious of what is good, bad, healthy, allergy tolerable, etc. When I prepare any table for a client, it is imperative for me to understand each client’s specific needs, possible allergies and special needs to ensure I deliver the highest quality. For example, if they are vegan, I will offer a vegan option platter alongside the regular dishes for all guests.
At Twinkle Tables, you will be guaranteed to receive the best quality with a unique display. Being a Caribbean girl from a diverse nation filled with dynamic creativity, color, and flavor in all aspects, I bring that same flair to Florida through my events, parties, and functions. On many occasions, we attend events where we are met with predictable offerings such as the types of food, the tablescapes, decor, etc. My vision has always been to create a delectable, sweet and savory experience for customers that’s not only visually appealing but also satisfying, as well as to give a burst of Caribbean to leave the guests speechless. This was the beginning of Twinkle Tables, a company dedicated to providing a sensory experience through taste, smell, sight and emotion. Table setting designs and catering for parties, special events, and home gatherings. We can create any special event as simple as a backyard picnic, a child’s party, a Quince, graduation, a wedding, just to list a few. Our vision is to electrify the senses, which will bring that feeling of exuberance, joy, and happiness, in some cases, even bring out a little dance, or whine as they like to say in Trinidad.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Like anything else, life will always throw curveballs. As many other small businesses, it’s always a struggle to get to where you envision, but one must endure growing pains. There will always be competition from established businesses along with additional challenges being a black woman in today’s world starting off a small business. There is added pressure convincing clients to change their mindset with food, offering healthier options, but I strongly believe in quality, uniqueness, and offering something outside the box. This will not set me back as I continue to build my customer base. My dreams will come true.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
What is a party without a theme to set the evening? My specialty and guarantee is to deliver the highest quality, the best experience and taste for any event. I also make liquor, infused cupcakes that explode with taste in every bite. My current customers always call for more delicious cupcakes and treat not just for their special moments but for the flavor and taste.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I have been playing house as a little girl, hosting tea parties in my dollhouse, moving up as a teen dreaming of this business. I am so proud to have achieved the current milestone from when I first started back in 2017, even though it has only been four years. I have the greatest leaders, my Grandma and my Mom, who deserve the credit in teaching me about exquisite cuisine, exposing me to various cultures and international foods. I am grateful to my cheerleading team, family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and most importantly, all my customers for believing in me.
Contact Info:
- Email: ayeshatramos@gmail.com
- Instagram: Twinkle Tables
- Facebook: Twinkle Tables
