REDEFINING THE ART OF FOOD AND COMMUNAL DINING WITH CHEF NEKIA

Photography by Tommy Ventura

In the world of culinary arts, some chefs go beyond the boundaries of a restaurant kitchen to create personalized experiences for individuals and families. Among them, Chef Nekia stands out as a remarkable private chef, specializing in crafting healthy and customized weekly meal prep plans. But her culinary talent extends beyond meal planning. At heart, Chef Nekia is an artist who believes in the power of food to transform lives and create magical moments as people gather together at a communal dining table.

BEGINNINGS

Nekia said her journey with cooking began at the young age of eight as her fascination with food sparked an early curiosity of the culinary world. Her interest peaked during her high school years, when she had the opportunity of witnessing her grandmother, Loretta, work her magic in the kitchen. As Loretta’s sight began to diminish, Nekia said there was much to witness and learn by watching her grandmother rely on her heightened senses of touch, taste, and memory. To this day, even the simple aroma of cumin evokes cherished memories of creating meals with her beloved grandmother.

In the mid-2000s, Chef Nekia's journey took a significant turn when she crossed paths with Chef Russ Landers, an experienced professional in the culinary world. Chef Russ quickly recognized her natural talent and eventually became her trusted mentor, pushing her beyond her comfort zone and encouraging her to develop her innate gift in the kitchen

A NEW DIRECTION, BOURN FROM LOSS

In 2014, Chef Nekia experienced a deeply personal loss when her father, [NAME] passed away. As she contemplated his legacy of an unwavering commitment to planting seeds of opportunities for future generations, she embarked on a journey of self-reflection. [NAME] was a generous and pioneering soul, a mentor to many and someone who embodied selflessness and joy. Growing up, their home was always open to people, and that inclusive spirit became the cornerstone of Nekia's private chef career. Her mission became clear: to foster that same sense of connection by creating a bridge between different people from diverse backgrounds that could gather and connect. That bridge became the culinary experiences she now creates, with the gathering table serving as the medium.

FINDING HER NICHE DURING A GLOBAL PANDEMIC

Driven by her passion and a desire for a sustainable culinary career, Chef Nekia delved into exploring innovative concepts to achieve her mission. During this time, she connected with the idea of grazing tables, a culinary display where a variety of food items, such as charcuterie, fruits, cheeses, and desserts, are artfully arranged on a table for guests to enjoy.

After completing an intensive six-month training program, she launched her own business in January 2020, centered around the concept of grazing tables. The onset of the global pandemic in March of the same year presented unforeseen challenges. However, Chef Nekia quickly adapted her business and embraced the necessary pivoting of her model. She simply started by offering her avocado-lime hummus on Instagram one day and received an incredible response. She then began introducing "grazing boxes," a unique way of offering individuals a way to savor her culinary creations while adhering to social distancing guidelines.

THE POWER OF COMMUNAL DINING

Chef Nekia's culinary artistry goes beyond her presentation of the food on a plate. She believes that food is a catalyst for connection and conversation, a universal need that brings people together on equal footing. 

“Food for me is more than just a beautifully plated and skillfully executed meal,” she said. “It's about what happens when we gather around the table. Where you're from, your socioeconomic status, the color of your skin; those things do not matter at the table, we all have to eat. When we sit at the table, we are at the same level. I strive to facilitate communal food experiences by gathering people together around delectable table-scapes.”

Her private dining events are more than a meal, instead offering immersive social experiences and unforgettable dining journeys

Throughout her journey, Chef Nekia has learned valuable lessons about knowing her worth and making choices that align with her vision. She embraces flexibility and resilience, always open to new possibilities and willing to adapt to changing circumstances. 

"Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not break," she says as a personal mantra.

With her caring and flexible approach, Nekia has transformed her private chef business into a vessel for crafting unique and memorable communal food experiences.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND HER

Chef Nekia's passion for food is creating delectable dishes. However, her deeper purpose lies in her power of building connections, fostering inclusivity, and savoring the richness of life at a communal table where everyone is welcome. 

To find out more about Chef Nekia and her offerings, view her site here.

LONG BEACH DAY’S MOTHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE: THE BEST LOCAL AND UNIQUE GIFTS FOR MOM

ADOPT AN OTTER WITH THE AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC

Surprise your loved one this Mother's Day by adopting a sea otter! Along with your adoption certificate, you'll also receive a plush animal, an otter-themed puzzle, and specialized Mother's Day card. Plus, by supporting the aquarium’s animal adoption program, you'll help fund vital education and conservation initiatives, provide essential animal care, and support animal rehabilitation efforts. To make sure your gift arrives in time for Mother's Day, adopt by May 8th here.

A CUSTOM CHEESE AND CHARCUTERIE BOARD FROM OH LA VACHE

This Mother's Day, give your mom the gift of a customized charcuterie board from Oh La Vache. You can choose from a variety of cheeses and meats, and each board comes with seasonal accompaniments like pickled veggies, olives, and nuts. Oh La Vache also offers a Cheese of the Month Club membership, which could be a great option for a cheese-loving mom.

A PERSONALIZED GIFT FROM THE BETTER HALF BOUTIQUE

The Better Half Boutique is your one-stop-shop for all your gifting needs. With a curated selection of home decor items, jewelry, and unique textiles, you're sure to find a gift that will make mom feel special. For a more personal touch, The Better Half Boutique also offers engraving on items such as cutting boards and wall decor - a perfect way to make mom feel extra special.

MOTHER’S DAY PHOTO SHOOT WITH f/8 STUDIOS

Looking for a more unique and memorable experience for mom? f/8 studies is currently offering a fun mini photo session featuring a beautiful hanging floral display. You can bring up to five family members of the same unit (even furry babies are welcome!). During your private appointment, enjoy one set-up for just $99. But hurry - spots have been filling up and a limited number are still available. Book your appointment here with f/8 today - the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories with your loved ones this Mother’s Day.

A COOKING CLASS/WORKSHOP WITH CHEF TECH COOKING SCHOOL

Chef Tech Cooking School hosts a weekly workshop every Friday evening from 6:30-9 PM featuring diverse cooking themes. The ultimate treat for any foodie mom, these workshops provide an ideal environment for enhancing culinary skills or refining cooking techniques. With Chef Tech at the helm, everything is taken care of, leaving mom with an easy task: showing up with a willingness to learn, cook, and enjoy the delicious results. You can view their current schedule here.

A POTTERY CLASS FROM CLAY ON FIRST

For the artistic mom, consider gifting a pottery class at Clay on First. Their one-time classes are perfect for beginners who want to try their hand at using a pottery wheel. Each class is two hours long and includes basic instruction on wheel throwing. It's a fun and unique way to get messy and make something beautiful. Give mom a memorable and creative experience with a pottery class at Clay on First.

A UNIQUE PLANT GIFT FROM PIPPI + LOLA

If mom has a green thumb or loves plants, consider a gift certificate or new houseplant from Pippi + Lola. Their stunning collection of houseplants and botanical goods is carefully curated to showcase and support Women, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ makers worldwide. Whether she's an experienced botanist or just starting out, Pippi and Lola's selection of plants and botanical products offers something for everyone.

A GIFT WITH PURPOSE FROM FAIR TRADE LONG BEACH

Give mom a gift that gives back by choosing something special from Fair Trade Long Beach. As a coalition of activists, advocates, and ethical businesses, FTLB works to promote the availability and use of Fair Trade products in Long Beach and beyond. Their selection includes a range of handmade pieces, artful textiles, statement jewelry, tote bags, hats, and more, all ethically sourced and crafted. By choosing a gift from FTLB, you're not only gifting a beautiful present, but also supporting a local establishment committed to ethical and sustainable practices.

WINE SUBSCRIPTION FROM WINE, CHEESE, ETC.

Surprise mom with a Wine Club Membership from Wine, Cheese, Etc. this Mother's Day. Choose between red, white or mixed wine options for the membership and also enjoy a 10% discount on storewide purchases every day. Wine, Cheese, Etc. also offers a range of culinary gifts such as gift boxes, build-your-own cheese boxes, cookbooks, and unique food items, another great gift idea for the foodie mom.

THE SUGAR COVE: A SELF-CARE OASIS

Step through the doors of Sugar Cove and you know you’re in for a treat.

This contemporary beauty destination offers a range of services tailored to meet your unique needs and preferences. Offerings include all-natural sugaring, airbrush tanning, and skin and body care options that cater to both men and women.

With a commitment to individualized care and attention, The Sugar Cove is the perfect place to indulge in some much-needed self-care. Their pristine and thoughtfully-designed locations exude a calming, California-inspired atmosphere that will make you feel instantly relaxed and at ease.

A LOOK AT SERVICES

Sugar Cove's experienced aestheticians specialize in an all-natural sugaring hair removal technique that grips hair rather than skin, producing a softer, smoother, and less painful outcome. This process allows customers to experience long-term benefits for their skin and hair, while bidding farewell to unwanted hair.

Guests are also invited to transform their skin with Sugar Cove's top-notch tanning services. Their in-house experts are currently utilizing a brand new airbrush formula that accentuates natural skin tone while concealing any imperfections. Whether seeking a subtle glow or full-body contour, Sugar Cove has the perfect solution to achieve a flawless, natural-looking tan.

Eyebrow care can also be elevated with Sugar Cove's recent addition of tinting and laminating services. Sugar Cove offers customers to collaborate with their team of professionals to achieve the ideal color match for brows, resulting in an enhanced, natural appearance.

Sugar Cove's facials are designed to nourish and rejuvenate the skin, leaving a healthy and radiant complexion. Their skilled team members use high-quality products and personalized techniques to address specific skin concerns, whether dealing with acne, aging, or dullness.

SOME NEW ADDITIONS

Sugar Cove's commitment to providing exceptional services continues with the addition of dermaplaning, a skincare treatment that exfoliates and removes dead skin cells. The service also includes an enzyme jelly mask packed with electrolytes that leave the skin plump and radiant for days.

And there's more to look forward to as Sugar Cove will soon expand its offerings by including blowouts at select locations by the end of the year. Stay tuned for the ultimate hair styling experience to complete your head-to-toe transformation at Sugar Cove.

THE COVE CLUB

The Sugar Cove also provides a membership option to help customers stay on top of their beauty needs while saving at the same time.

Memberships include:

• Your selected service per month 

• 1 free airbrush tan

• 10% off all additional full-priced services + products

• Invitations to participate in exclusive member-only events

SUGAR COVE FOUNDERS

Established in 2012 by close friends Kara and Kelly, Sugar Cove has always had a mission to help individuals feel and look their best. As small business owners, Kara and Kelly are passionate about supporting other local businesses, charities, and foundations. Over the years, they have collaborated with various organizations, dedicating themselves to giving back to the community that has supported them.

LOCATIONS

With 6 convenient locations spread across Orange County, Long Beach, and South Bay areas, a wonderful experience that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed awaits at each location.

Founders Kara and Kelly

ART THAT SPEAKS VOLUMES: USING A CREATIVE PASSION TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

As a former middle school teacher, one Long Beach resident never imagined that her knack for designing bulletin boards would lead her to a thriving business.

Meet Briana Murray - a talented local illustrator whose art is driven by her passion for social justice and standing up for marginalized communities. From advocating for mental health awareness to promoting the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, Briana's art initiates meaningful conversations and serves as a call to action for those wanting to create a more equitable and just world. Drawing inspiration from pop culture and music, her work is representative of matters which she deeply cares about and is committed to.

THE BEGINNINGS

Spending years as a dedicated teacher in the public school system, her creative passion really took shape as she began having fun with lettering and bulletin board designs in her classroom. Her students were immediately drawn to her artistic talent and often asked Briana to handwrite or calligraphy their names. The positive response from students prompted her to further explore her skills. As a result, she took on more lettering projects, including custom orders and sign-making for friends. With each new project, she gained further confidence in her abilities, ultimately leading her to get more creative with this new endeavor.

When the pandemic hit in 2020, she suddenly found herself with more time on her hands and began dedicating that time to getting better at her craft. Along with calligraphy, she experimented with cartoon drawings and illustrations. One day, on a whim, she posted to social media asking if anyone would like a custom drawing. The response was overwhelming and led to her first successful month as a designer.

As Briana started to think about her business, she asked herself some important questions. She wanted to figure out what truly mattered to her and what kind of causes she wanted to support through her art. She also asked herself what kinds of stickers and designs she would want to see in her daily life, like on her water bottle or laptop. And most importantly, she wanted to find a way to turn her passion into something that brings others joy.

After some reflection, she decided to open up shop on Etsy. Half of her shop became dedicated towards activism, social justice and mental health, and the other half towards pop culture and music — a culmination of some of her most personal interests.

SOME HIGHLIGHTS

As we discussed the highs and lows of her first few years in business, Briana shared that finding her niche was not easy. However, after a period of trial and error, she was able to hone in on her identity as an artist and narrow down her focus. As a result of her hard work, Briana's designs have garnered fans from all corners of the United States, which is one of the most rewarding aspects of her business.

"It's an amazing feeling to know that my designs are making people happy all over,” she said. “It’s wild to me to think that something I created or drew is bringing joy to someone on the other side of the country.”

Being able to give back is another rewarding part of the business for her. She donates a minimum of 10 percent of her proceeds on each sale to both local and international organizations she believes in.

FAVORITE LONG BEACH THINGS

Living in the Bixby Knolls area of LB with her husband, Emile, and their pup, Roscoe, they love Long Beach and are so proud to call this city their home. On any given weekend, you can find them on a walk or stroll around the neighborhood, at the McGowen dog park near The Hangar at LBX, eating at Taqueria La Mexicana on 4th street, or just catching up with friends at SteelCraft.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND HER

Briana’s collection of stickers and greeting cards are available for purchase via her Etsy shop, StuffbyBriGoods, and can also be found at select Tilly's stores near you.