We had the good fortune of connecting with Nina Evans and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nina, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting my own business stemmed from various motivations. However, my top motivation I would have to say would be financial independence. The freedom and independence of being my own boss while building a business/brand from the ground up. This allows me to challenge myself and grow as an individual and step outside of box and breaking the norms of my family before me. Also, having the flexibility and openness to be creative in my own work environment where my hard will always be appreciated.

What should our readers know about your business?

That Cookie’s BBQ, LLC. is a mobile food business that offers BBQ, American foods, and a many of Chicago’s staples. As a Chicago native, after re-locating to Ohio many years ago. I began to miss some of the incredible food that the windy city had to offer. Many times, I found myself visiting home “Chicago” just to satisfy my cravings for some of my favorite foods. Although, my ride was just five and a half hours, the short drive had become a bit much for me as I began to build and settle in my new hometown. Therefore, I began preparing some of those staple foods for my family and friends. Eventually, the word was out and the requests began to grow. Especially for the pans of Chicago Style BBQ Rib Tips.
I believe what sets me apart from others is that I offer Chicago staples. Many of the items/products are not sold in Ohio and I have gone above and beyond to make sure the original ingredients and food brands are used. so that Ohioans can enjoy the experience. For example, the “Chicago Dog” made with an All Beef Vienna Hotdog, Poppy seed bun, neon green relish, sports peppers, onion, tomato, and  pickle spear. 
What also sets me apart from others is that I am able to introduce items, foods, and a taste directly from Chicago that is not done the same way here in Ohio. For example, The Chicago Mild Sauce (a sauce that is delicious on any grilled and/or fried food.)

I am most proud of having the courage to add to the success. To my family, success was earning a college degree and landing a great career. Although, I was considered a success from my family views. My personal desire of success was not met. I’ve had many thoughts and great ideas however, I didn’t have the courage. The fear and doubts of failing kept me from a lot of things when I was much younger.

My entrepreneurship journey began in 2015 when I decided to no longer let doubt be my regret. I begin attending programs, empowering and business seminars, and sessions to learn the tools of becoming a business owner. I continued to network with local business owners in the community building partnerships and confidence that grew enough to take an idea and make it a reality.

This journey has not been easy at all. I have learned a lot along the way and I still continue to learn new things daily. As a business owner you must know that challenges are just part of the process and they will always occur. To overcome them, you have to learn how to pivot and work with what’s at hand. Just because something may not be working out at the moment does not mean its a complete fail. You have to understand that it just may not be that right time for that particular plan.

I’ve learned plenty of lessons along the way. However, the most important lesson for me is to stay true to your brand/plan. As an entrepreneur, our customers should come first and we tend sometime do whatever we need to gain/keep that customer. However, this can lead to taking on things that may not align to your business model. (For example, catering an event and agreeing to provide decorations, linen, and alcohol).  Although that may be additional earnings for my business, I’ve learned to share the blessings and refer my customer to another business that specialize in that particular area of service.

 I just want to world to know that Cookie’s BBQ, is a mobile food service that bring Chicago’s staples with Flavor & Flare.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The new restaurant downtown Akron, Dejuan’s. This place in elegant and classy. The experience was delightful and the food was great!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to thank all of my family and friends that has encouraged me during those times of doubt and those who provided a listening ear when needed. I would like to thank every customer that patronized my business, and every client and community business that believed in me and gave opportunities. I appreciate your continued support.

Website: lovecookiesbbq.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cookiesbbque/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/235863823930420

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