We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Melissa Alakayi. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Melissa below.
Melissa, thank you so much for making time for us. We’ve always admired your ability to take risks and so maybe we can kick things off with a discussion around how you developed your ability to take and bear risk?
I believe my ability to take risks stemmed from me not wanting to be comfortable or stagnant in the same position I was in. I’ve always been a persistent individual, but the problem was I always felt like I had to have the answer to everything or if there was a possibility of me failing, then I would become hesitant to do something. However, when I started my business, I realized that it’s all a part of the process. Fear only hinders your growth and for someone who is very spiritual, I knew my faith had to be stronger than the doubt. As a business owner, challenges are inevitable, so for me, it’s like you either create a solution or complain about the problem. You’ll never see what’s on the opposite side of the fence if you never jump over, so you have to be ready to take a risk in hope of the best. Although, the best may not occur every time, at least you have no regrets of giving it a shot.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Getting to know more about Mel…currently, I operate a full-service catering company and I am also a licensed esthetician. I started my catering business in 2016, with no plan of turning it into what it is today. I loved hosting parties and events, so cooking was always apart of that and it was something I did very well. From that point onward, I just continued to build it up and went ahead and turned it into a full business. My skincare brand is called Soultry esthetics, “illuminate your skin’s soul”. My love for skin/health stemmed from my mom and her natural/holistic teachings. So, when COVID hit, I decided to further my knowledge and obtained my esthetician license. I want to help women who may be dealing with hyperpigmentation issues, proper vaginal care, and educate more people on how food and skin correlate with one another. While promoting women to feel confident in their natural skin’s glow. Both industries are exciting for their own reasons, but the love I have for servicing people is what they both share. For Meals By Mel, I am preparing to drop the seasonings. These will be a one-of-one and are salt-free base. In regards to Soultry esthetics, I am working on the yoni steam blend and researching products to aid in hyperpigmentation.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
One of the skills that has recently been very impactful in my business has been problem-solving. As we all know, the saying, “it’s always something”, is no false statement for any adult. The same applies within operating a business. When I am faced with a challenge, my immediate mindset is, how can I fix this? I think it is imperative to always be quick on your feet and ready to improvise, especially in the food industry. Another would be, effective communication. I have been able to heighten my communication skills, while being on both sides of the operation. When you create clarity, there’s no room for the client or your team to be confused. It leaves no room for misunderstanding which reduces the chance of conflict arising. Lastly, leadership is a skill that I don’t take lightly, it is something that you have to work hard to develop, mainly from experience in my opinion. Being a leader means a lot, because it means you have taken on the responsibility to lead and direct others. You have to be able to properly delegate, manage people, and move with integrity. My advice for anyone embarking on this journey is to always be open to learning and receiving new information. Know that you are not always right and to stay persistent with everything you do.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
It’s natural to feel burnt out when you’re trying to manage so many different things. However, over the years I have learned to unplug and take some time for myself. I am a strong advocate for “self-care” days. For me, that may look like getting my hair done, going to the nail shop, going out to eat, anything that really makes me feel like I’m treating myself. We deserve rewards too! I’ve always loved to write, but as I got older I began to neglect doing it. When I started therapy, I began journaling again and honestly that’s my number one go-to when I am stressed. By putting it out on paper, I’m able to release it in a different manner without feeling judged. However, I am a very spiritual person, so I’m always quick to go in prayer mode when I feel like I’m about to explode (LOL). My advice is to do whatever makes you feel safe and at peace. Prioritize your personal space and make sure you’re happy beneath the surface.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.mealsbymelissa.com
- Instagram: @_mealsbymel
- Facebook: mealsbymell
- Linkedin: Meals By Mel
- Twitter: @_mealsbymel
- Youtube: @mealsbymel9609
