Meet and Eat is a brand created by Clarissa van Emmenes that aims to create and indulge in unique food experiences and trends by hosting quarterly themed pop-up foodie events throughout Pretoria. It also specialises in food styling for blogs, shoots and events.
How did your business start?
I run a blog called I Love Pretoria, and I often get a lot of queries regarding food articles and styling. That’s why I decided to start a business with food being the main focus.
Why did you choose this area to set up shop?
Meet and Eat’s premises are located in Pretoria East in Elardus Park – an older area with a lot of character and a bit more peace and quiet than the bustling hubs in the inner city or in Johannesburg. It is also situated between Centurion, Johannesburg and Pretoria, which makes it easy for our collaborators and clients to come and go as they please without having to drive too far or wide. It also gives us easy access to venues in developing areas of Pretoria such as Silver Lakes, Hazeldean and Shere, as well as Centurion, Irene, Midrand and Johannesburg due to its close proximity to the major highways.
How did you find your premises?
It was a no-brainer as the space was made available to us. It serves as the perfect regular meeting spot for our collaborators while also providing us with a comfortable, beautiful open area in which to work.
Why are the premises ideally suited to your business?
It allows for a short commute time to almost anywhere, low to no technology costs and lower overhead costs (with no lease to pay) and increased productivity.
Who are your neighbours?
Our neighbours are residents of the area and small business owners who have been living in the area for decades, which means that the environment is amicable and peaceful.
What are the shop rental/sales prices like in this area?
Due to the fact that the area is quite old, it does not have excessive rental prices. Prices normally range from R4,000 for a residential space, or R20,000 for a commercial space (in an office block, for instance).
What is your shop footprint?
We communicate and collaborate mainly through email, which means that our business’ footprint is minimal. At most the premises will have eight people going in and out throughout the day.
Do you have any expansion plans?
We have exciting expansion plans that include international events and styling, as well as the launch of a book, which will feature ideas for food-related events and gatherings, including recipes and styling ideas. Our services are currently available in South Africa and New Zealand.
Do you operate online as well?
Our business relies on our online presence and we are currently optimising our website to include an online shop, which will stock gourmet food items, including coffee, tea and gourmet gift boxes.
What’s your most popular item/service?
Our most popular service thus far has been food styling for photographers (styled shoots) and companies doing product or lifestyle shoots.
072 842 0225
Words: Zena le Roux | Images: Styled shoots: O.Three Photography; Workspace: Storyteller Photography