Today we’d like to introduce you to Ainsley Lopez.
Hi Ainsley, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Like many others, I became displaced from my job due to COVID and almost immediately, I saw other women working their nine to fives at home and pursuing their dreams on the side. I was patiently waiting for my time, trying to find my passion. I became engaged in May 2020 and when I started looking for vendors, I realized how expensive catering was and thought to myself, I can do this. And La Tablera was born. I was too afraid to tell anyone about it so I worked privately with my branding coach, marina girgis and announced to close friends and family in September of 2020, and officially launched in Nov. 2020. I really wanted to empower other women to follow their dreams, just as I was inspired by the women I have in my life. One of the most important goals in my business is to support woman-owned businesses. I’ve worked with local influencers and local businesses and actually have my first workshop coming up March 28 at Back Haus Dallas. Owned by the same owners of Haus of Vintage in Bishop Arts.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been smooth for the most part, the worst thing that happened thus far is I’ve overbooked myself or taken more than I could handle since I am a one-woman team. It all comes down to organization and keeping your eye on the vision and your purpose.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in charcuterie but I can arrange anything on a table. There’s an art to charcuterie and the secret is to fill the board. To my friends and family, I’m just a girl who loves to make charcuterie. Food presentation makes me feel fulfilled and knowing it can bring a smile to someone’s face or cheer someone up is the cherry on top. I am most proud of how much I’ve grown with creativity and my inclusiveness of other woman-owned businesses. What sets me apart from others is my kindness and customer service, part of being intentional with my business. Customer service is embedded in my soul after working in restaurants for the last ten years and I’ve learned how to talk and listen to others, a life skill I can use now everyday with my personal business.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was unapologetically myself. I’ve always been a go-getter. I love stability in life who doesn’t but sometimes you’ve got to follow your heart and that’s what I did and I’m here with my business. Always been a foodie and appreciated the culture behind the food. Food is my love language. Once I get something in my mind, I’m flexible with the methods but firm on the end result.
Pricing:
- $40 Charcuterie box
- $60 Charcuterie box
- $60 or $100/pair tickets for my workshop
- $20/pp grazing
Contact Info:
- Email: Latableraboards@gmail.com
- Website: Latablera.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/latableraboards
Image Credits
Artbyarista Monicalsalazarphotography
