Today we’d like to introduce you to Destinee Morris.
Destinee, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’ve always had a passion for cooking. I realized I had a passion while I was in college. Cooking just always brought me joy and I really enjoy cooking and seeing people eat my food and enjoy it as well. I knew I always wanted to be my own boss and start my own business but like many I was afraid, afraid I might fail or no one would even notice but when the economy got shook by COVID 19 I was one of the ones where my full time job was affected. So, I decided what better time to start my business I knew that it could be risky starting a business in the food industry during COVID 19 but I also like a challenge and figured if I can do it now then I can really do this! So I came up with a business plan which included coming up with something that I know people will always want or love to buy but it has to be incorporated with what I love to do, so I came up with Exquisite Taste by Destinee which specializes in cakes and desserts. I love making cakes and desserts because I feel you can be as creative as you want to be with it but you gotta make sure it tastes good. So, I really love what I do because I can always come up with something new and creative and I always try to come up with something outside of the box to add to the menu.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I wouldn’t say it’s always been smooth. One of the hardest parts about starting a business is actually starting it. Getting it up and running. Creating a plan and funding it. You really have to have a vision but you also want to be knowledgeable about the actual business part that way you can be profitable it takes more than just making something and want to sell it. You have to be business minded and very positive. Because some things that I have learned being in the food/dessert industry that everybody’s taste buds are not the same so you’re not always going to get the same feedback from every person and that’s ok just keep it professional and keep pushing. This week nobody may hit you up and next week your phone may be blowing up and you’re booked!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Exquisite Taste by Destinee – what should we know?
Exquisite Taste by Destinee specializes in cakes and desserts. When I originally came up with the name, I wanted to do everything from family dinners to desserts. Actually, when I started, I started with lasagnas, seafood Mac and cheese, cakes and cupcakes. But as time went on, I realized that the demand for the desserts just took over and I was creating and adding more dessert items to the menu. I’m most proud of the fact that I actually do what I set out to do and that this is mine, my baby. Everything is me and I have a part in everything about my company. I’m the face, I’m the brand and I’m a part of this wonderful world that we have of black businesses and entrepreneurs. I feel that what sets me apart is I actually try to build a rapport with every person that contacts me about a cake or dessert. I really talk to them and try to come up with the best cake or dessert that they send me a picture of or have an idea of. I visualize, build, and create making the customer part of the process every step of the way.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Being driven and consistent. Being driven is what will keep you going to really execute your goals of starting a business but being consistent is what keeps you in business!
Contact Info:
- Address: Covington, Ga
- Website: www.exquisitetastebydestinee.com
- Email: exquisitetastebydestinee@gmail.com
- Instagram: exquisitetastebydestinee
Suggest a story: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
