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As Women’s History Month comes to an end, we wanted to focus on female entrepreneurs in the DMV area who are changing the landscape of the local hospitality industry. We interviewed them about their business and the lessons they learned along the way.
Daniella Senior of Colada Shop and Serenata
Daniella Senior holds many important titles: Founder and CEO Piaoxiang shop,Founding Partner serenadeculinary ambassador State Council, recently, a new mother. I had the opportunity to chat with this busy entrepreneur to find out how she is juggling her busy schedule these days.
District Fray: Why do you think there aren’t enough Colada Shops in the DMV area? What do you think sets Colada Shop apart from other cafes in the area?
Daniella Senior: You know, I think one of our key differentiators is that we’re an “all day” place. Indeed, it has been an integral part of our philosophy from the beginning and our cocktail menu is very extensive. I truly believe that being able to make this space your own at any time of the day and make it an extension of your home is what sets us apart. Additionally, we offer Cuban Caribbean cuisine, which is also very unique to us in the region. It is this combination or the sum of our parts that makes us so special.
District Fray: In addition to the successful opening of Colada Shop, you also opened Serenata in 2019. How is the Serenata experience different from the Colada Shop?
Daniella Senior: Therefore, Colada Shop focuses more on Cuban flavor and casual style. Serenade is a celebration throughout Latin America and highlights the characteristics of each country. From the ingredients to the names of the cocktails, we strive to make this an educational piece. At Serenata, we like to emphasize different flows and offer more elevated cocktails.
District Fray: Has becoming a mother changed the way you approach your work life?
Daniella Senior: I will say that before having kids, it felt like I had no boundaries for myself. Now, I want to make sure I’m there for my son. But I also understand that I have other children that are my business and a lot of people are dependent on me. So I think that gave me a lot more empathy for how I lead. Additionally, just discovering the synergy of harmoniously integrating processes and trusting my team has been a liberating experience for me.
District Fray: We are excited about your new location in Clarendon! What can we expect from this location?
Daniella Senior: We don’t like cookie-cutter spaces. Each location has a different feel and Clarendon is famous for its pub scene. So the location is great. The bar is centrally located and is the largest of all six. multiple locations; www.coladashop.com // @ColadaShop
Tatiana Mora of Mita
Mita is a Latin love letter to the beauty and versatility of vegetables. It started as a pop-up at Union Market’s La Cosecha by chefs Tatiana Mora and Miguel Guerra, and is now available at Shaw’s new brick-and-mortar location.
District Fray: Take us through Mita’s dining experience.
Tatiana Mora: We want to take you on a journey of South American flavors and traditions. We have two package options: fixed price and tasting experience. We want to make sure people have the option to dine with us, so the fixed prices are shorter, but all the beautiful South American flavors are well represented.
District Fray: Not only are you a chef, sommelier, and restaurateur, but I also noticed that you are a holistic coach. Please tell us more about it.
Tatiana Mora: yes i created love soul school, where I speak on personal growth, meditation, and support for women. I did it all in Spanish because I think women, especially Latina women, really need this type of support.
District Fray: What advice would you give to Latina women in the industry?
Tatiana Mora: My main advice is that you can really do anything you want as long as you’re passionate about it. We have the ability to do anything. Remember, life is full of highs and lows, so if you are going through a low, remember that as long as you stay focused and approach things with an open mind, everything will be fine. do not give up. 804 V St NW, Washington, DC 20001; mitadc.com // @mitta_DC
Kevelle Bajaj at Barrel Oak Winery
Barrel Oak Winery & Brewery is nestled in the rolling mountains of Virginia wine country, inviting visitors to soak in the surrounding beauty while enjoying award-winning wines and craft beers. As of 2022, the winery is newly owned by the Bajaj family, who immigrated from India in the 1970s and achieved early success in the IT field. Barrel Oak Winery and Brewery represents the pinnacle of their passion for wine and farming.
Regional Conflict: Washington, D.C. residents are often hesitant to venture beyond the city limits. Why do they embark on the Barrel Oak Journey? What makes this trip a unique experience?
Kevir Bajaj: Although Washington, D.C. residents are reluctant to explore outside the city, Barrel Oak Winery always attracts a packed house, especially on weekends. Guests will be attracted by the beautiful natural scenery, exquisite food and drinks. Our calendar is packed with events for families and even four-legged companions, with plenty of space for everyone to enjoy. We have recently launched a charming cottage, perfect for a weekend getaway or a special event under a stunning starlit night!
District Fray: In addition to your involvement with Barrel Oak, you have an impressive entrepreneurial track record. Can you share some advice for aspiring female entrepreneurs about moving forward in a male-dominated industry?
Kevir Bajaj: Venturing into the unknown is an integral part of my entrepreneurial journey, where resilience and preparation are crucial. Stay adaptable to meet unforeseen challenges while developing a robust business plan. Embrace constructive and negative feedback as learning opportunities. In a male-dominated field, you will always encounter barriers and biases. Surround yourself with capable people, let go of the urge to micromanage, and focus on the bottom line. Especially in new ventures that lack investors, be prepared for potentially unprofitable periods. 3623 Grove Ln, Delaplain, VA 20144; BarrelOak.com // @BarrelOak Winery
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