Today we’d like to introduce you to Aimen Ahsan Hafeez.
Hi Aimen, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was once on a road trip with my friends where we grabbed some coffee and were speaking about our dreams. I mentioned wanting to start a bookstore cafe where people could feel right at home. they asked me what I’d call it if and when I did. I said socks and sandals sounded like a fun, cool and comfy name.
I started the business one day after a week or so of thinking about it. I started with a small table selling lemonade and iced coffee at a small local Juneteenth event. Going from a little lemonade stand to a coffee catering cart has been such a fun and enlightening journey! I have big plans and hopes for the heights I hope to achieve with The Socks & Sandals Collective.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Honestly, there were way more challenges than I had expected. Owning and running a drink service business solo is not an easy task by any means. I learned a lot about marketing, licenses, networking, and hospitality that I had never even thought of before starting my business. However, every struggle, challenge and restless night has been a labor of love that I am deeply grateful I had the opportunity to pursue.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about The Socks & Sandals Collective?
The Socks & Sandals Collective is a South Asian Woman owned hospitality and experience business that helps makes events feel extra special. We cater drinks for events big and small. We specialize in incredible coffee and mocktails. Our customers know us for our creative drinks, incredible hospitality and event planning expertise. I am consistently proud of the brand collaborating with and sustaining community led initiatives. From Juneteenth events to local volunteer organizations, The socks & sandals collective is truly wholesome. I also love our unique name, out of this world hospitality where we treat everyone like an esteemed guest and dear friend, and that we offer customers the ability to specialize their drinks and vibes for their events!
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Yes! My biggest advice for anyone just starting out with a business is to just take the first step. Whatever that looks like for you. The first step is usually the most daunting. I wish I knew to research a bit more about the hospitality scene in my city before throwing myself in blind.
Pricing:
- All quotes are based on event size and details. Can be reached out to via Instagram DM, Email, or website quote button
Contact Info:
- Website: https://socksandsandals.tech/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ssocks.and.sandalss/
