What does a typical day look like for you, between waiting tables and setting up banquets?
A typical day for me involves a good mix of structure, energy, and attention to detail. I usually arrive early to begin setting up the event space, especially when there’s a banquet on the schedule—be it a wedding, conference, or corporate gathering. The setup process is hands-on and meticulous. It involves laying tablecloths, arranging place settings and chairs, ensuring all cutlery and glassware are polished and perfectly aligned, and adding decorative elements according to the event theme or client’s vision. Once setup is complete and the event begins, I shift gears into waiting tables, which means serving guests, attending to their needs, clearing tables, and maintaining a professional yet warm presence throughout. It's a dynamic role that requires multitasking, teamwork, and stamina, but it's also fulfilling—especially when guests are satisfied and the event runs smoothly.
How do you handle last-minute changes during event setups?
Handling last-minute changes during event setups requires a good mix of quick thinking, flexibility, and a calm mindset. In this line of work, things don’t always go as planned—clients might make sudden adjustments, unexpected challenges may arise, or timelines may shift. When that happens, I focus on staying composed and solution-oriented. I immediately assess what needs to be changed, communicate clearly with the rest of the team, and adapt quickly to get things back on track without compromising quality. Experience has taught me that the key is to remain calm under pressure, prioritize tasks effectively, and always keep the guest experience at the center of every decision.
What’s one thing people don’t realize about working front-of-house?
One thing people often don’t realize about working front-of-house is just how much of it involves emotional labor. It’s not simply about carrying plates or taking orders—it’s about being the face of the guest experience. No matter what’s happening behind the scenes—be it stress, delays, or personal challenges—you have to maintain a warm, calm, and engaging presence. You're constantly managing moods, expectations, and energy, ensuring every guest feels welcomed, valued, and attended to. It takes empathy, patience, and emotional intelligence to deliver that level of consistency, and that’s what makes front-of-house work both challenging and incredibly rewarding.
What’s the funniest guest request you’ve ever received?
One of the funniest guest requests I’ve ever received was from a guest who looked at me completely serious and said, "Can you blow on my soup? It’s too hot, and I trust you more with it than myself." I couldn’t help but laugh! It was such an unexpected moment, but it also reminded me how much guests trust and feel comfortable around us—which, honestly, is a compliment in its own quirky way. Moments like that keep the job light and memorable!
If hospitality were a sport, what would your position be?
If hospitality were a sport, it would definitely be football—and I’d proudly take the role of the midfielder. Just like in the game, the midfielder is right at the heart of everything—connecting the back with the front, ensuring smooth transitions, and keeping the entire flow of play in sync. That’s exactly how I see my role in hospitality. Whether it’s supporting the team behind the scenes or interacting with guests on the front line, I’m always working to keep things moving, communicate effectively, and create balance so the entire experience runs seamlessly.
Morning prep or evening shifts?
Evening shifts, please! There’s just something electric about them—the buzz, the energy, the beautiful chaos that comes with a full house and high expectations. That’s where the real fun happens. I thrive in that environment—it keeps me sharp, on my toes, and fully engaged. From the laughter of dinner guests to the fast-paced rhythm of service, evening shifts have a pulse of their own, and I absolutely enjoy being part of it.
Quiet elegance or bold decor?
Bold and gigantic statement décor—always! I love when a space speaks loud and clear without saying a word. There's something unforgettable about eye-catching, dramatic designs that command attention and set the tone for the entire experience. Whether it’s towering floral arrangements, striking art pieces, or vibrant color palettes, bold décor brings life, personality, and wow-factor. It tells a story, creates a mood, and leaves a lasting impression—and that’s exactly the kind of atmosphere I enjoy being surrounded by.
If you could serve anyone in the world, who would it be and what would you offer them?
If I could serve anyone in the world, it would be BNXN—because he strikes me as the kind of guest who wouldn’t just enjoy the food, but would truly appreciate the story, the setting, and the people behind it.I’d serve him something simple but soulful—a perfectly grilled suya platter, smoky and spicy, bursting with flavor. And of course, it has to be paired with a chilled glass of Hennessy, all enjoyed in an open-air space with soft lights, good vibes, and music floating in the background.It wouldn’t just be a meal—it would be a whole vibe. 😌🔥🍢🎶
