At 28 years-old(After a hard life as a teenager struggling through crisis after crisis). At age 26. I was a new mother so it was time to get smart fast and figure out how to climb over all the obstacles standing in my way, only by the grace of God was that possible. In 2009 I made a choice that would change my life forever. My husband was laid off, my job was a dead end. I mean it seemed like the dark nights would never end. I knew I wanted to be a entrepreneur,I just did not know how I was going to do it. I was stuck in the limbo of fear the opposite of faith. How was I to do it with no money and most important without a business degree. So one night I approached my mom about starting a catering business. She had experience as head chef. I had banquet experience as a server. She said "If you can figure out the business part of it, I can do the work" I went hard to take on CEO of the business, After that one conversation Natalias lunchbox Catering was born. I stayed up all night researching and planning and teaching myself how to start a biz.., I attended 10 week business courses that were so expensive and eventually I had to drop the courses and go back to teaching myself. I mean I really had to go back to the basics. I attended a countless number of seminars and conferences and workshops to network and market to get our name out there. I was fortunate. Enough to become friends with great mentors and business professionals, so it was not all for nothing. One month our rent and bills were behind because I had spent so much on networking events in the community and buying business needs. However I never lost my faith and believing God for my blessings that were in store. Here's the kicker one evening my cell rung and it was a lady who worked at Gieco and wanted to know about our services. It became our 1st contract, not only was I able to pay the bills off. We had money to expand and grow from that one contract. What I did not realize and expect was the magnitude of referrals and the consistent repeat clients that would follow. Also being featured in the Virginia business journal and nominated for business person of the year, was such a honor and privilege. Next time I'm going to win, I am excited to see what God has in store for me, my family and business. This is only the beginning, I have big dreams and solid goals my savvy motivated spirit is on the rise. Natalia's lunchbox catering started in 2009 with nothing but a name and has grown to over SIX figures in revenue in less than a year with no start-up money, lines of credit, or loans. !I am also a member of Northern virginia Chamber of Commerce, a active sponsor of F.O.R kids charity and community shelter volunteer, youth leader of my church Gates of heaven Ministries, youth mentor @ the juvenile detention center. A Business mentor for the Woman's business development center, all located in virginia. Wife and mother of a 1year old and a 2year old. It is a mission of mine that God has placed on my life to inspire,encourage,motivate,empower, anyone willing to listen!