Meet Denise Grant

Denise A. Grant is the owner of “Hactac Events by Denise A. Grant LLC.” Denise is also a thirty-seven year old self-taught professional baker turned event planner who has been in business for the last 8 years.

The Jamaican born native has always had a creative mind but fell in love with baking and cake decorating after attempting to make her sons first birthday cake. After a few basic classes in the local craft store and determination to learn through self-teaching venues such as youtube.com, she not only created that beautiful masterpiece for her son but found a love like no other in creating beautiful art through cake.

Over the years not only has she grown in her craft and technique but she has taken her business to new heights and levels by striving to be more than just “The Cake Decorator” but now the full event “Experience Creator.”

Denise A. Grant (Provided Photo)

 

Tammy Reese: What inspired you to become an Entrepreneur?
Denise Grant: My son, I am a single mom and this business originally started with me trying to give him a first birthday but on a budget so I took a few classes at the local Michaels craft store and learned how to make his birthday cake, which was successful.

Tammy Reese: Please tell me about your company?

Denise Grant: Hactac Events by Denise A Grant LLC is a full-service event planning company that specializes in custom cakes and treats. We take care of all events you can think of ( Wedding, Social & Corporate)

Photo Credit: Virgil David

Tammy Reese: What do you love most about the work that you do?
Denise Grant: The Result and also I treat each event like it is my own event.  I’m having a birthday, I’m getting married, I’m having a baby, it’s my corporate event. Do I love it? Would I be excited to walk into the room? I put myself in the client’s place to make sure I give the best experience.
Tammy: When you think of the word empowerment what comes to mind?
Denise: Strength, Leadership & Transparency. In order to empower you should be able to speak your truth as your story can inspire others, lead by example ( do not be the evil you do not want to see in this world, stay your course), and have the strength within yourself to get up each day with that belief and drive to keep going even if you do not want to.
Tammy: What activities do you partake in during Black History Month?
Denise: I participate in local activities throughout my neighborhood. Usually, my son’s school does a great presentation and I assist in any way I can. Not sure what COVID will bring this year if anything.
Tammy: In what ways does your company give back to Black communities?
Denise: I live in a predominantly black neighborhood, so we did create internships for the students in our neighborhood. I also partner with community leaders for any events they may have as well.
Tammy: What historical Black figures have made an impact on your life and why?
Denise: Of course we have our activist and civil rights leaders ( Rosa Parks, Harriet Tubman, Maya Angelou) who paved the way for women to have a voice that is heard. Oprah Winfrey, for showing women, when they tell you no, you can make a yes. going from a canceled show in Chicago to owning her very own multi-faceted company known to all. And Our Newest Black-figure Vice President Kamala Harris, showing little black girls everywhere ( including this inner little black girl) that there is no ceiling, you can do ANYTHING.
Tammy: What can we be on the lookout for from you this year?
Denise: We are continuing to build our virtual library. COVID showed us that we have to pivot and learn new ways for a business to be able to survive in these times. DIY tutorials, at home transformations both in-person and virtual, we are still continuing our cakes (celebrations are still happening). We are using this opportunity to educate either as a client or as fellow creatives who may need guidance.
Tammy: What advice would you give anyone who wants to become an entrepreneur?
Denise: Being an entrepreneur is not easy but if that is something you want to pursue, do it. Believe in yourself, create your plan and take action.

 

 

For more information on Hactac Events please visit www.hactacevents.com.

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Photo Credits: Marlon King & Virgil David

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