Meet Sofia Rose of Olive & Nectar in West Hollywood

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Let’s do it! I’ve always had a creative mind. My personality was also very outgoing. Growing up I thought I wanted to be an actress. So when I was nineteen I moved to Los Angeles to pursue that dream. Well eight years later I realized that is wasn’t for me. At that point all I had was this dream and didn’t know who I was or what I was doing. Then I got inspired by my entrepreneur boyfriend and community of entrepreneur friends. I thought, “I’m going to start a business.” I initiated three different businesses. One was too expensive, another failed, and the other one I put the horse before the cart. Finally, one day I was making beautiful platters on a retreat and thought that I could make that into a business.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
There is definitely a beauty to pursing your passion but it isn’t easy. My biggest struggle has been balancing a 9-5 job while creating Olive & Nectar from the ground up.  Another struggle I’d have to say is figuring out all the licenses, contracts, and legal aspect. I just want to put healing foods artistically on your table. In order for me to gracefully do that, I need to have all my ducks in a row. I’m the only one in my company so I wear many hats. These hats that sometimes don’t fit. It really helps to slow down, make a checklist, and of course, meditate. Without Mediating this vision wouldn’t be alive.

We’d love to hear more about your business.
Olive & Nectar is a specialty boutique catering company. We specialize in high-end grazing tables, platters, handcrafted mocktails, and workshops. All of our produce is organic, fresh, and full of decadency.

I’d say we are known for our Grazing Tables. A Grazing Table is basically a huge charcuterie board (but on a table) covered completely in a symphony of deliciousness. My creativity and hospitality sets me apart from the other competitors. I really pride myself in customizing each table specifically for each client.

What were you like growing up?
Growing up I was always using my imagination. I had several invisible friends, a pet rock, and I turned my closet into “CC Coffee Cafe.” – Seriously, I made a brochure and everything.

I use to pretend I was on my own cooking show and would give instructions on how to make Mac and Cheese to a fake camera. My boyfriend would probably say I still do this, but he has no proof. (Hopefully!)

My personality was very outgoing and still is. Not much has changed. My invisible friends just got a little older.