Deonna Sor shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Deonna, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
On September 20th I had my first child, my son, Giovanni and he is pure perfection. We found out in January I was expecting, and running a business is no joke, especially when you’re pregnant. But throughout the entire experience I found joy in my work and also found joy in knowing I can share what I do with him one day. Finding balance in work and parenting is definitely daunting, but so rewarding as well. I look forward to him reading this article one day.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Deonna Sora and I own Sweet Dee Hospitality, we’re a small woman owned business that specializes in charcuterie, catering, bartending and classes. We’re located in Cincinnati Ohio and serve the greater Tri-state region. We represent the standard of what Hospitality should look like. I feel that after Covid-19 a lot of that standard was lost. We strive for beautiful and delicious food for an affordable price for any occasion.
I love what I do and I think it shows in my work. The grazing tables we put together are simply beautiful. Each ingredient is hand selected, cut and placed by yours truly.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
My earliest memory of feeling powerful would have to be when I was doing community theater. I was probably 10 years old, and I got a solo in ‘School House Rock Jr.’
It was so rewarding to know the dedication of the rehearsals, the commitment of my entire summer and the practice all came to opening night. Getting ready with costumes and make up, walking out on cue, being the only one on stage, having everyone in the audience focused on you, and just rocking out a solo, is a feeling I’ll never forget. The applause at the end gives such an invigorating feeling, it’s simply indescribable. The entire experience is a powerful one. I highly recommend being in front of an audience at some point in your life, you won’t regret it.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If there was something I could tell my younger self…it would be, “not to worry.” I was afraid of so many things when I was younger, the uncertainty of life, what I’d do, how I’d make it, who I’d be. And to be honest little Dee would never believe who I am today. It’s quite amazing how proud my younger self would be of who I am today. Starting my own business? Running a successful business as a new mom? It’s really crazy what all I’ve done when I look back on it. Because in the moment, a lot of times I don’t feel like I’m doing enough. I think you have to remember to give yourself grace. Like I said, little Dee wouldn’t believe what she could accomplish one day, and I’m so incredibly proud that it’s turned out that way.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, the public version of me is the real me. I pride myself on not indulging too much on social media. That goes for posting and doom scrolling. So when I do post it’s really important and it’s authentic. I feel like there’s so much out there that isn’t real, and it’s exhausting. So I will always be transparent, it’s much simpler.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace after a big order is finally finished and the customer absolutely loves it. It makes my day to know people love my work. I can always enjoy time at home, but it makes it extremely rewarding when I’ve finally finished something I didn’t think I could, or raised the bar for myself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Sweetdeehospitality.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetdeehospitality?igsh=Njd1NHNpYzRya3M=
- Facebook: Sweetdeehospitality
