Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeremy Marc Anthony.
Jeremy, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I remember living in London, England, at a young age attempting to bake a cake with no assistance from my parents. Naturally, I failed, I knew nothing about baking powder or sifting flour, but it didn’t stop me. I would always make sweets here and there with an attempt to create something amazing. Although I loved cooking, I grew up with a musical background. Therefore, I naturally fell in love with music. I grew up singing, playing the saxophone and the piano. My musical diversity led me to several accolades for all three. My vocal abilities also afforded me the chance to sing for Washington Performing Arts’ Children of the Gospel and Psalms Ministry under the direction of Thomas Dixon Tyler. This is where my true passion for the culinary arts was birthed.
My introduction to COTG was through my aunt, Valerie Davidson, Caribbean Chef and Owner of The Epecurean Catering in Hyattsville, MD. With my aunt’s guidance, my culinary training commenced. She taught me kitchen skills and how to conduct business. On weekends when I spent the night with my cousins, I would help her cook, bake, and set up for events. We did this for years, but in time our performance schedules grew, and there was less time spent in the kitchen. It was during college that my love of culinary art reemerged.
Photography was birthed through lack. While attending Alabama A&M University studying classical voice, I found myself stuck with no creative outlet. I wanted to explore more Jazz composers but was denied the opportunity. I found myself gravitating towards the camera. My younger brother Alexei McBean (Costume Designer in Film/TV), who was studying Film and TV Production at NYU, made the transition smooth. He would send me tips and critique my work. O’Jay Rice and Roland Scott, two photographers in the Huntsville, AL area, took the time to teach and guide me. Jerris Madison molded me, introduced me to lighting techniques and styling, and Tamika D Williams and Quentin Gunn polished and pushed me to where I am now.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
My journey had a few hurdles, some I jumped with ease, others not so much. The most significant struggle for creative individuals like myself is finding your lane. So many times, I was told, “You need to pick one thing” or “You do too much,” no, I don’t do enough. I learned that it is essential to invest in all of your crafts equally. Do not allow people to dictate your talents. It is possible to find ways for your different ventures to work together. For example, photography and culinary skills enable me to be a one-stop-shop for brides. I recently added wedding planner to my list of services. Brides are comforted knowing that they do not have to go searching for several different vendors for their special day.
Alright – so let’s talk business. What else should we know about you and your career so far?
JMA LLC is an event company specializing in catering, photography, and event planning. We take your vision and develop it into something as unique as you. We also shoot artistically, working with models and actors to build their portfolio. We have worked in a variety of areas, from Artistic to Fitness. We strive for perfection, and I believe that is what sets us apart. There is a passion, pride, and a level of excellence one achieves when he sets the bar at the highest level, always reaching for the bar and pushing to go beyond. It is a blessing working with a team that believes in your ability and dream, and who also share your passion. Michael Quarles, Melody Forbes, Urell Richardson, and Joel Shephard are a part of my team. I refer to them as my right-hands. They have aided me in events, catering, and ensuring that I am taken care of while I take care of others. Corinthians Moore has been the muscle. He gives me extra strength where it is needed; from photography to catering, I can always count on him. Danielle Smitherman handles my finances and ensures I follow tax laws and operating procedures. I’ve learned that having the right team goes a long way.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I don’t think luck has had anything to do with my journey. Had I attended the college of my choice, I may have become a teacher instead of pursuing culinary arts. I probably would have never picked up a camera. Luck had nothing to do with my journey, my life was orchestrated by Christ; He knew the plans He had for me.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jeremymarcanthony.com
- Phone: 240.743.9900
- Email: jeremymarcanthony@me.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremymarcanthony | https://www.instagram.com/chefjma
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JeremyMarcAnthony
Image Credit:
Jeremy Marc Anthony, Mike Luuu, Richard Hammond Jr.
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