Growing up in Nigeria, my passion for cooking grew from watching my mum, grandmother, aunties and women in the community cooking and catering for various events. I was fascinated by their different cooking styles and tucked away nuggets of wisdom that I later tried out myself. As I grew older, I realised that God has blessed me naturally and gave me the ability to create a colourful story with food. I started to put my own spin on traditional and continental dishes and drinks to create new recipes. I was often complimented for my unique flavoured combinations and presentation of dishes, but I didn’t pay much attention as it was my passion.
After moving to the UK, I got involved in planning and executing charitable events for people less privileged within the community. I often had requests to prepare dishes for friends for parties and loved hosting in my home. I came to the realization that I could turn my event planning and catering skills to a business after successfully planning, decorating, and catering a traditional Nigerian wedding for a close family friend.
I launched an event planning and catering business in 2010 and catered for events small and large. From wedding planning and catering to having stalls at exhibitions, shows, private and corporate events; catering for parties of up to 600 guests.
Customers often wanted to know how I cooked my dishes and created such unique flavours. I drew on my knowledge and expertise sourcing high-quality ingredients and blending them to create unique and delicious spice mixes that people can use when cooking.
This business is more than just a way to make a living; it is a way to help people connect and create cuisines from different cultures and traditions. I am proud to be sharing the unique flavours of cuisines with a wider audience and help people create delicious and healthy meals in their own homes.
I am committed to providing my customers with the best possible products and service. I continue to experiment with new flavours and blends, always looking for ways to improve and expand Auntie Shade’s range of spices.
Come join me on this journey and try your hand at using our spice mixes to be ‘A Master Chef’.