Today we’d like to introduce you to Anyoli Samuels
Hi Anyoli, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Hello! I’m Anyoli (pronounced An-jo-lee), an Afro-Latinan by way of Panama. I wear many hats—mother, partner, sister, friend, and blogger. I started blogging two years ago on 11/11 as a way to explore a new hobby outside of my daily routine. My blog, What the “F” is for (wtfisfor), celebrates my favorite “F” words, where I cover topics like fitness, family, friends, fun, and food in the Central Florida area. I wanted something and somewhere to reflect who I truly am.
From the success of wtfisfor, I branched off and started a quarterly dinner series called Fancy Foodie 365 which has grown as a signature event bringing people together through their love of food. I’ve set myself apart by hosting events at venues in the Central FL area that typically people do not know about. So far, I have hosted a monochromatic-themed dinner called “In Living Color,” an invite-only murder mystery dinner called “Classified,” and a western-themed party called “The Rodeo”….and the year isn’t over yet!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My road has not been smooth as I faced challenges along the way. My main struggle consists of personal identity and growth as I have sometimes felt as if personal interests and aspirations are put on hold due to motherhood and other responsibilities. Navigating parenting and finding a rhythm of work/life balance has been a constant battle but every day I’m striving to be better.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I have over 6 years of experience in event planning and coordination and over 12 years of experience in education. In my professional career, I have worked specifically as an Academic Registrar for about 8 years because it is what I love the most. As a Registrar, it can become stressful so as an outlet, I also host events through my company, Fancy Foodie 365. With that, every quarter I host a food-related event that promotes a venue that most people have not been to and a unique theme.
I am most proud of putting myself out there and essentially taking the leap of faith to actually get started. I’ve had this idea for years and eventually started it on 11/11, two years ago. I love seeing people networking with each other, communing, and participating in the Fancy Foodie themes. For the last two years, I curated my content creation connections by working as an Ambassador for Orlando Weekly and joining Yelp Elite. Fast forward to this year which has had a lot of ups and downs, but overall has been bountiful in achievements of mine. I published a book with other authors called, “The Business They Stood On,” I had my third event with over 100 attendees, I have started a journal & stationery line called “Fancy Folio” found on Etsy, and I am currently in the process of starting a cookbook with some of my family and friends.
If I had to say one thing that sets me apart is that I am an introvert who likes to be social. Ironically, I love getting together with other people to eat and fellowship, but I hate small talk so my events work the best for my comfort (and hopefully others too!).
I am bold but also fearful, I am funny but also shy, I am a product of turmoil but also a product of triumph. I am uniquely me.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
At this moment, I have had to regroup with my organizational skills, so I started to utilize certain apps to help me. My favorite apps are Honeydue (helps with bill organization and budgeting), Google Scheduler (keeps track of my busy schedule), and Structured (a daily planner).
I’m not going to lie, I love a good Romance novel….I am a lover of love! I love anything written by Eric Jerome Dickey, Terry McMillan, and Sister Souljah. Not to mention, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the deep amount of respect I have for my auntie Tab or Tabitha Brown.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.wtfisfor.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wtfisfor/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wtfisfor
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/fancyfoodie365/
Image Credits
1101 Creative Agency – Jade Mitchell
