We had the good fortune of connecting with Lakezia James and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Lakezia, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
The idea for my mobile hookah business originated from observing the increasing demand for unique, customizable experiences at social gatherings and events. I realized that while many people enjoyed hookah, they often faced barriers such as travel, time constraints, or a lack of local options. By offering a mobile service, I could provide the same high-quality hookah experience at private events, parties, and gatherings, allowing customers to enjoy the ambiance and relaxation of a hookah lounge wherever they were. This insight led me to envision a service that could bring the full hookah experience directly to customers, whether at parties, weddings, or corporate events.
By offering a high-quality, on-the-go hookah service, I could cater to a broader audience and provide a memorable, tailored experience that fit seamlessly into any occasion. This innovative approach not only filled a gap in the market but also allowed me to share my passion for hookah culture in a flexible and dynamic way. This customer-centric approach filled a niche in the market and allowed me to create a unique business opportunity.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
What sets Puffed Up Hookah apart from other hookah vendors is my commitment to delivering a premium, customizable experience that brings the ambiance of a hookah lounge to any location. I am most proud of the business’s innovative approach and the positive feedback from clients, which affirm the unique value we provide. Getting to where I am today was far from easy; I faced numerous challenges, from logistical hurdles to market competition. However, persistence, creativity, and a focus on customer satisfaction helped us overcome these obstacles. Along the way, I learned the importance of adaptability, resilience, and the power of a strong support network. I want the world to know that our brand stands for quality, innovation, and a passion for creating unforgettable experiences.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting Atlanta for a week, I’d craft an itinerary to showcase the city’s best. We’d start with a visit to the iconic Georgia Aquarium and then explore the vibrant street art in the Krog Street Tunnel. For meals, I’d take them to Breakfast at the famous Pancake House, enjoy lunch at the trendy Ponce City Market, and dine at the acclaimed restaurant, Busy Bee, for a taste of classic Atlanta fare. In the evenings, we’d experience the nightlife at the lively Buckhead bars, and catch live music at the Tabernacle. For relaxation, we’d stroll through Piedmont Park and take a scenic hike up Stone Mountain. Throughout the week, we’d embrace Atlanta’s diverse culture, dynamic food scene, and engaging attractions, ensuring an unforgettable trip.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My partner, Troy Malone of Handsome Academy Studios, deserves immense credit and recognition in my story. His unwavering support, innovative ideas, and tireless efforts have been instrumental in shaping the success of my mobile hookah business. From brainstorming sessions to hands-on involvement in day-to-day operations, his dedication and collaborative spirit have made a significant impact. His commitment to ensuring that my business is excellent and his shared passion for creating unique, memorable experiences for my customers have been invaluable, making him an integral part of our journey.
Website: https://puffedupatl.wixsite.com/puffed-up-hookah
Instagram: Puffeduphookah