March 27, 2017

Meet Allison Ellis of AE Catering & Events in Midtown

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Allison Ellis.

Allison, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
After moving from Washington, DC in 2015, AE Catering Events made roots in Atlanta the spring of 2016. With what started as favors for friends quickly spread into “you should really do this as a business!” So with nervous excitement and confidence in my ability to serve others, my husband and I then prayed for wisdom in moving forward with starting the business here in Atlanta. Slowly I began taking gigs (“word of mouth” marketing and social media have been and continue to be my greatest allies) and we received so much encouragement and support, I was able to quickly build a portfolio of events that include baby showers, birthdays and weddings.

In the short amount of time I’ve started, I’ve been fortunate to service some notable companies and clients. And our client relationships we’ve fostered have been tremendously helpful, as we continue to grow our reach within the Atlanta market.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Entrepreneurship comes with a host of challenges, especially being that my background is in speech-language pathology (I had to quickly learn the value of a well-stitched business plan)!

Financing the business initially and resourcing help was a totally new endeavor, but I quickly learned and adjusted, utilizing webinars and social media platforms that taught me about business startups and managing within the first year.

Please tell us about AE Catering & Events.
AE Catering & Events is a full service catering and design service that offers both culinary and event expertise. We not only provide catering services, but candy/dessert tables for social gatherings! We go beyond the drop off service, paying special attention to decor and your special details: whether it be a small luncheon or intimate dinner gathering or multi-course wedding meal. This catering company is unique in that it has familiar menu options from which to choose from – but with unexpected flavorings that excite and awaken the palette from the standard fair.

If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
As I reflect on lessons learned within my first year, I’d have to say that I wish I would’ve been more comfortable with saying no sometimes. One proponent of the business that I work tirelessly to deliver is that “the extras comes standard.” I think of myself as a consumer first – “why would I spend my money here?” and “what’s the benefit?” Those questions push me to prove that I truly understand and appreciate my client’s business. However, with the plethora of extras I offer, it can leave the business at a place where growth can become a strain. And I wish I would have sought an advisor who would encourage my love and desire in giving wholeheartedly, but carefully advise ways to streamline without compromising exceptional service.

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