The Taste of Kay,LLC: Journey from Culinary Passion to Business Success

​Amidst the aroma of diverse cuisines, there exists a culinary oasis known as The Taste of Kay, LLC. Owned and operated by the passionate Kayjona Rogers, this independent catering food service business isn't just about feeding hungry souls; it's a journey of flavors and entrepreneurship.

Kayjona's venture into the world of culinary delights began three years ago when she decided to share her love for cooking with the world. Starting with private parties and pop-up venues, she quickly gained recognition for her mouthwatering creations and unique seasoning blends. However, it wasn't until March 2022 that her dream truly took shape when she officially registered The Taste of Kay as a domestic limited liability company with the New York State Department of State.

Despite her culinary prowess, Kayjona faced the common challenge that plagues many entrepreneurs – the daunting task of managing the business side of things. While she thrived in the kitchen, navigating through bookkeeping, tax filings, marketing, and banking proved to be a different kind of challenge altogether.

Enter Gina Mangiamele, a certified business advisor within SUNY Brockport Small Business Development Center, a passion for helping entrepreneurs like Kayjona turn their dreams into reality. Through the Good Biz 101 program, a collaborative effort between the Rochester Commissary, Foodlink, and the SUNY Brockport Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Gina became Kayjona's guiding light in the intricate world of business management.
Recognizing the importance of working "on" the business as much as working "in" it, Gina set out to empower Kayjona with the knowledge and tools she needed to succeed. From demystifying accounting processes and financial statements to providing insights into sales tax requirements, Gina's guidance was invaluable.

Today, as patrons indulge in the delectable offerings of The Taste of Kay, they're not just savoring delicious food; they're experiencing the culmination of Kayjona's culinary passion and Gina's unwavering support. Together, they've turned a simple food service business into a beacon of culinary excellence and entrepreneurial success, one flavorful dish at a time.

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