We’re so pumped about our conversation with Milton Angel Guzman. Milton Angel is the Founder of Island Flavors and is also a content partner. Content partners help Voyage in so many ways from spreading the word about the work that we do, sponsoring our mission and collaborating with us on content like this. Check out our conversation with Milton Angel below.
Milton, it’s been too long since we last connected. Thanks so much for taking the time to share your thoughts with our community again. Some readers might have missed our prior conversations, so maybe you can kick things off for us with a quick intro?
My name is Milton Angel Guzman, founder & CEO of Island Flavors – a taste of Puerto Rico. A mobile food service, that serves authentic Puerto Rican cuisine in Atlanta. With the help of my mother, our executive chef, we aim to spread the Latinx culture through our food, music and tradition.
What’s been the most challenging part about running island flavors? Fun part?
The most challenging part running Island Flavors for me is currently, balance. Operations, marketing, accounting, quality control etc… are all responsibilities that would overwhelm me at times. I’ve learned, and am still learning how to deal with balancing business, life, and everything in between,
The most fun part of it all, the 1 thing that really drives me, is our impact. Bringing that taste of Puerto Rico to Atlanta, to those who are familiar and love it, and introducing it to those who don’t. I love seeing a crowd dance to our music playing, while holding an empanada in their hand.
If you had one piece of advice to someone just starting their business, what would it be?
Some advice I’d give to anyone starting their business would be, commit and build. Think about your successes 2-3 years from now, instead of in a matter months. Build a team that has the same ambition as you do.
What is something you know now that you wish you knew when you first began this business?
Something I’ve learned while building Island Flavors, that would’ve helped me in the early process is keep log of all of your spendings and earnings! Keeping track of your money is crucial, whether if it’s being spent or made. Not only does this help with inventory, budget and accounting but also with business credit, approval odds, and business reputation as well.
To what do you attribute your success?
One of the main attributes that relates to my success would have to be my dedication. There were many times I lost hope in myself and my business, but I always looked at the bigger picture. The bond we’ve built with our guests and how everyone looks forward to eating our food. Serving our food is my obligation at this point.
Can you share your career path?
I started my career path at the age of 16 in the retail industry. Probably worked at half of the clothing/shoe stores in the mall. Eventually started working in the bar/restaurant industry serving or bartending. Started Island Flavors in July of 2019. I worked at Best Buy for almost 6 years, and actually quit October of 2020 to further pursue my career path in my business.
What is your fondest memory with Island Flavors to this day?
The most fondest memory with Island Flavors to this day would have to be the first time we ever sold out of everything at one of our pop ups at Bonfire ATL 2020.
Alright, so before we go, how can our readers connect with you to learn more and show support?
You can follow us on Instagram to keep up with all of our events @islandflavorsatl Request catering and place orders on our website during our pick-up/delivery hours: islandflavors.square.site
Find us on Yelp and leave us a review: Island Flavors in Atlanta
Follow us on TikTok! @islandflavors
Contact Info:
- Website: islandflavors.square.site
- Facebook: Facebook.com/islandflavorsatl
- Twitter: @islandflavoratl
- Yelp: Island Flavors in Atlanta
Image Credits:
Instagram: @yojpgirlaki
