Meet Shimek Antrom: Caterer & Event Planner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Shimek Antrom and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shimek, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
To be honest and transparent, in the beginning, I started my brand strictly because I wanted people to experience how good I could cook. Although I absolutely love to cook, It wasn’t genuine. As time went on that drastically changed. Catering and event planning has become an outlet to express my love and creativity. My brand has become a form of therapy for me. I have so much peace and comfort. Because it’s my passion , my clients can feel the love through my cooking.

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?
I am most proud of my ambition and my willingness to do whatever it takes to make my clients happy. It’s definitely not easy running a business, and being the one who does mostly everything. From promoting, to customer service, to being accessible and personable, it’s all necessary. I believe that’s what sets me apart. My clients are amazed at the outcome. Being able to provide “wow factors” are rewarding, however it can be challenging. I am somewhat of a perfectionist, so I try my best to go above and beyond the expectations of my clientele. I’ve learned that time management and assistance is essential. Although, most times I am a one woman band, producing my vision is way beyond me. I just want the world to know that I absolutely love what I do and I will ensure that my clients are satisfied beyond their expectations.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m still learning about the city, so I’m not too familiar with a lot of places. I would definitely take them to my favorite places to eat, which are Milk and Honey Restaurant on Cascade Road and Pappadeaux. I would also utilize the opportunity to explore new places. I still have a lot to see in the city.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
2. I want to first dedicate my shoutout to my late grandmother Odessa Antrom. She started me off in the kitchen at a very young age. She is the reason I always wanted to become an entrepreneur. The most important phrase she instilled in me was “Momma may have, Papa may have, but God bless the child that has their own.” That one saying has stuck with me. She passed away 2 years ago and as a tribute to her I revamped my business to honor her. Nana Brown is the name she affectionately called me and now it’s the name of my business. I also want to give credit to my best friend Jasmine Harris. She has stepped in and helped me in any area that I needed. She is my photographer, my graphic arts designer, my website designer, my sous chef, etc. I wouldn’t be able to do this without her. She has blessed my business and I definitely need the world
to know how much she is loved and appreciated.

Website: www.nanabrowns.com

Instagram: Nanabrownsllc

Twitter: ChefMealz

Facebook: Nana Browns by Chef Meek Mealz LLC

Image Credits
Jasmine Harris