-Popular Event Vendor, Mariam Abimbola
Talk of one drink that is usually served at social gatherings and parties around the world and cocktails comes to mind before others. Caterers in the line of cocktails are always sought-after because they complement any form of refreshment served to guests. Party set ups are not complete without having a visible stand where cocktails are being produced and served. This is while they are always in high demand any day any time.
Popular event vendor, Mrs. Mariam Omowunmi Abimbola is one of the Nigerian entrepreneurs doing cocktail business in London. She is the CEO of Chillat Cocktails International, a highly sought-after cocktail catering service at the home of Big Ben. She successfully runs the same business in Nigeria since 2018 before setting up the London version. In a chat with Citypeople Magazine, Mrs. Abimbola revealed her success story. She dwelled more on while she decided to set up a cocktail service in London. Below is the excerpt: Read and enjoy!
Let’s meet you officially?
My name is Mariam Omowunmi Abimbola. I’m the CEO of Chillat Cocktails International. I’m into cocktails and drinks services. I make cocktails, mocktails, bar management, drinks sourcing and drinks service. I organise Afterparty ecstasy. I also serve Palm wine, Garri yoyo, and small chops at events.
Tell us a bit about your background?
I attended St. Mary’s Private School, Broad Street in Lagos Island. Then I proceeded to Federal Government Girls College, Bauchi for my secondary education after which I went to the Lagos State University to study History and International Relations. I graduated in 2008.
How did you start Chillat Cocktail International?
I started chillat cocktails in 2018. But I had always had this thing for events since I was very young. Most of our family parties were planned by me. I spoke to one of my caterer friends about it and she encouraged me.
Ever since, I can say the grace of God has been sustaining me in this business. My first official training in this business was youth empowerment of Nigeria. I later went for my Masters at Naturelle Bar Academy.
How has your business been fairing since you set it up in London?
I started a cocktail business in London last year and I thank God for his mercy. Our first event was huge. It was a 60th birthday party held in Leeds city. I could remember my first big break in business was when I was called to cater for a 2000 guest party. That was huge for me back then.
Why did you set up your business in London?
I decided to set up a branch in London because whenever I was in London and I went to parties, I didn’t usually see that creative cocktail setting as we do in Nigeria. So I thought to myself that it won’t be a bad idea to start over here too. The passion I have for my job and readiness to expand my business was another key factor.
How would you compare the catering business in London to that of Nigeria?
Catering business in London is different from that of Nigeria. It is more structured here than Nigeria. You can’t just go into it without having the necessary certification in London.
Where do you see Chillat Cocktail International in the near future?
I see my business going more globally, I see Chillat traveling all over the globe to cater for events.
For further enquiry, you can contact Chillat Cocktail International with the information below: Instagram: @chillat_cocktails
@chillat_chopsandmore
WhatsApp nigeria 08053523108
WhatsApp uk 074368997
Send Us News, Gist, more... to citypeopleng@gmail.com | Twitter: @CitypeopleMagz
