Today we’d like to introduce you to Alani George.
Hi Alani, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey to becoming a caterer started incredibly early—believe it or not, owning a catering business has been my dream since the tender age of seven!
I officially started on this path at the Arts Institute of Washington in Arlington, Virginia, where I began my culinary school training. After a year, I moved back home to the U. S. Virgin Islands. It was there I landed a job at a bakery called “Island Sweet Stuff” in Tillet Gardens. I was upfront with the owner, letting them know I had just finished my first baking and pastry class and really just needed practice with icing! I relocated to Georgia in 2015
The Launch of 2391 Catering
The most exciting chapter came on October 5th, 2019—which I officially call our birthday—when 2391 Catering Services LLC was created.
I’ll never forget the launch: I hosted a huge tasting party, and the support was incredible. My best friend, La’Shanda J, flew in to help me cook, plate, and create all the food—she was indispensable. My sister, Kahilia, handled the decorations, and I have to give a huge shout-out to Ronald T. Williams and his friends who pushed and did all the heavy lifting that day. My siblings, godparents, friends, and even my work crew from CVS (where I was working as a Pharmacy Technician before going back to culinary school) showed up and showed out.
That tasting event was a blast, and it officially kicked off what has been a truly rewarding and sometimes a painful business journey.
Initially I started off with juices as the pandemic hit. I was shipping to Philly, New York, MD, SC, FL. Monday and Wednesday were my shipping days. My cart and I would be going to the local Avondale Post office.
Alright, 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?
The road has definitely not been a smooth one—it’s been quite a trying journey, to be honest.
My biggest struggle has often been the practical side: there were times when my vision and my pockets simply weren’t aligning. This financial strain, combined with the sheer effort of being a business owner, led to me wanting to quit countless times—I’d say well over 50 times in the past six years!
Thankfully, I’ve had amazing support from my friends and cousins who kept pushing me, always telling me: “Don’t give up, keep going. Go back to the drawing board, see where you can fix and pivot.”
The funny thing is, every time I decide I’m ready to throw in the towel, an order or a new opportunity always surfaces. I’ve also found that my most outlandish, “crazy ideas” are the ones that end up being my best sellers! It’s like the universe has a way of confirming what my friend Elena always tells me: “Lani, it’s not meant for you to quit.” That constant nudge from both my supporters and the business itself has been the fuel to keep me going.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I love talking about the creative side of the business! As a flavor creative, my work truly revolves around crafting unique and memorable tastes, both sweet and savory, but I’m best known for my distinctive desserts and herbal beverages.
Specialties and Signature Flavors
My signature offerings are my cakes and juices. I specialize in an abundant selection of flavors, most notably a 15-flavor variety of Rum Cake and specialty items like my Pistachio Cake, the crowd-favorite “Half and Half of Heaven,” and a refreshing Passion Fruit Cheesecake.
Beyond the sweets, I have a passion for creating nutritious beverages using island fruits and herbs. My original Beets and Ginger Lemonade, which is great for managing anemia and blood pressure, is a huge hit. I also feature my zesty Hibiscus Lemonade and Passion Fruit Iced Tea.
The “Amber Glow” Tea and Personal Pride
What I am most proud of right now is my upcoming line of Luxury Teas. This collection was influenced by my desire to help others heal through herbs in the kitchen. The LUXure teas are beautifully named The Amber Glow, Sun-Kissed Berry Thyme and The Solstice Bloom.
What truly sets 2391 Catering apart is my willingness to embrace those out-of-the-ordinary ideas are my best sellers. Which fuels my commitment to combining culinary indulgence with the therapeutic benefits of island herbs and spices. It’s a unique blend of heritage, health, and a Pallet shocker with immense creative flavor.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Honor your vision and stay true to yourself. Pivot when you need to, but never give up on the goal. And always know: God’s belief in you is unwavering.
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