By Alex Vaughn
How long have you been here?
I have lived in Fort Lauderdale going on 11 years.
What brought you to South Florida?
I think the biggest reason I came to Florida was the weather and the beach. I also found a more open gay life style here.
Please tell Agenda readers about your business.
I own a catering business and currently have expanded to a gourmet Bistro near the beach. We specialize in all homemade comfort foods. I think the biggest reason we are different, from a catering standpoint, is our foods are made in our kitchen and not from a vendors freezer. Our fresh approach to our entrees and catering is setting us apart from others.
How long have you had your business and how is it going?
My catering is relatively young in Fort Lauderdale – within the past 4 years. I owned a restaurant and catering company before moving here. My catering business has grown very rapidly, which is the reason for expanding to the bistro. I am very thankful to everyone who has supported my dream and help make it a reality.
What niche did you feel was missing, that you started your business?
I would like to think people are tired of mediocrity when it comes to food. I felt there was a need for real food – real
food meaning, anything not pre-made, prepackaged or frozen. What is interesting is how many people have never even tasted a homemade French fry. I know that seems silly, but think about it. Where do you go to get something made fresh? I know some people don’t care if a French fry is hand cut and are perfectly happy, but I’m not and that’s why I opened Moments In Time.
How does your business benefit the community?
I feel the benefit is simple I offer fresh made meals that are prepared in my kitchen daily.
What advantages do you feel there are having a business within the gay community?
I have felt the over whelming support from the gay community since the start of Moments In Time. So many people have reached out to help me I can never express all the gratitude I have for some many great people here.
What disadvantages do you feel there are?
I see no disadvantages it has all been a very positive experience.
How would you identify your management approach?
Well, I believe you treat people with respect and show them they are important as part of the team. If you give a person something to be proud of in their job, they will take pride in working and do the best they can. You have to make people feel needed and important. You can never talk down to someone or be disrespectful.
What do you feel about the idea that the summer season is slow?
Summer is always slow here. How do i combat this pressure? I try to keep a positive attitude and work on ideas and projects that will better the business.
How do you think the community as a whole responds to your business?
I think that Moments in Time has had such a great response from the community. I am so excited for the months to come and all the great parties we will be fortunate enough to be catering.
In your lifetime how do you feel the gay community has changed?
The biggest change I have seen is the openness that has happened. This has not been an easy journey for the community, but it is changing for the better.
Do you see a positive change in attitudes towards the gay community?
I do see a positive change. I think what would be most helpful is if the media could focus on some regular gays; it seems as if everytime you see something in the news the media choose to use pictures or videos of the extremes and somehow forget to put anything about the average person.
Do you believe there is credence to the idea a business geared towards the gay market is cutting out a major section of the wider community?
My restaurant is open to everyone.
What plans do you have for the future?
Big plans are in the works for Moments in Time. I am in the process of attaining a beer and wine license, sit-down dinners and lunches. Very exciting. I hope to have this in place by mid-October.
If you had an open check book, what business would you go into next?
I dont know really. Sure, I do have hopes of expanding and opening yet another restaurant. I have always liked the idea of a bed and breakfast though, so let’s say that!
Moments In Time Catering & Gourmet is currently open for tastings and lunches, but will soon be opening for dinner.
