Meet Giovanni’s Sweet and Savoury Treats. Giovanni’s is a small food establishment that aims to satisfy all the needs of its customers as well as reintroducing hearty meals which are perfect for everyone to enjoy may it be kids or simply adults. All this, most importatly, at a very affordable price.
Irresistible Double Fudge Cupcakes
One Dozen: $250
According to the Owner Nafiysa, this business has been in existence for approximately two years and is still growing as the year progresses and it is operated by both Mother and Son and presently is located in the vicinity of Morvant. “Ideally we operate from a large kitchen space which creates an environment to produce or provide meals in such a large quantity. Just to name a few some of the services that we do offer to the general public are Private Catering Services to micro weddings, Birthday Celebrations, Business meetings, Pre- Prepped diet meals/Meal Plans, Brunch Boxes, Seafood Boils, Both Sweet and Savoury Pastries, Sandwiches and so much more,” says Nafiysa.
As with most entrepreneurs, there is a story behind the name of the brand. Nafiysa says “Just being at an all time low point in my life having brought my son into this world, certainly changed my perspective on the way I observed others and not only that but also my son’s energy in the way that he would be so persistent in trying made me to believe that I should never give up no matter how much the work load would be. That’s the reason for his given name Giovanni, which means God is gracious and because that meaning served purpose, you felt as though it represents something that is bigger than us with its uniqueness.And that’s also why I chose to use his name for the business”
Some entrepreneurs choose to focus on their brand and others juggle with a full time job. Nafiysa has chosen the latter and more. “I actually haven’t been operating the business full-time as yet, however, we do have plans to do so and mostly the reason why is because I’m currently juggling a lot, not just with the responsibilities of being a single mom but I do work elsewhere such as being employed at Hyatt Regency as an On Call Staff member and I’m also a Junior Barista at a Coffee Shop called Full Bloom.” Seems like multi-tasking is your super power, Nafiysa! She adds, “And I must admit maybe a couple times, things have become hectic but also because of how I’m scheduled to work my roster is usually presented if not days or a month in advance and this helps me to prioritize how my daily activities would go from receiving orders, interaction with customers and more.”
Behind every entrepreneur, there is a source of inspiration that got them started in the first place. For Nafiysa, it’s no different. And her answer is simple. “My love for food and my past experience and exposure due to working in the hospitality industry.” It certainly shows through your work.
Now there must be major milestones that the brand has achieved to date. Nafiysa says “The success of being able to create my dream job during a pandemic after years of planning.
Being able to financially pursue my son’s education, being able to construct my very own home and soon will own vehicle that will greater assist in delivery of our goods.” These are all milestones for sure!
And with the milestones come lessons learned as an entrepreneur along the way. Nafiysa shares her insight. “A lesson I learned is that everything takes time to grow and you’re not always going to be in a position where you can satisfy everyone’s needs but keeping in mind that becoming an open-minded individual is one that allows room for growth and how you decide to channel that bit of critique reflects on your business.’
She also has advice for those out there who may want to begin their journey as an entrepreneur. “My advice to those out there who may want to begin their journey as a entrepreneur is to always have faith in God and never doubt your abilities without applying yourself. It’s never too late to start or try again the sky will always be the limit!” Great advice, Nafiysa!
When looking at the realm of building brands, Nafiysa sees a brand as follows. “My definition of a brand is the way in which a product or services are being provided which creates a strong, positive perception of your company and its products in your customers’ mind.”
She also gave further insight into the difference between a business and a brand. “A business is more or less a company that produces the products or offers the services. Whereas the brand is concerned simply with the image that allows individuals to identify your business and its projects.”
Being a member of the local brand community, Nafiysa shared some thoughts. “I do observe the amazing products from local brands within our country, but I do feel that we as a people should be allowed access to have greater resources or proper funding to provide more”. We agree!
Check out the magical products from Giovanni’s Sweet and Savoury Treats
