The Industry Cosign Spotlight: Iman Dean
Originally published on The Industry Cosign April 30, 2015
Title: Owner
Company: The Events Agency/Birthdaypartybooker.com
Location: New York City
“Always remember to fall asleep with a dream and wake up with a purpose.”
Before making her mark in New York City’s ultra-competitive catering market, Iman Dean learned the field from her parents by way of their family business, Kim’s Katering. Honing her craft until she turned sweet 16, the eager Tampa, Florida native took her talents up north to “The Concrete Jungle,” where she would start off hosting various Manhattan hotspots like chic establishments Babbo, Nobu and Jean-Georges’ Spice Market. Over the course of five years, she did whatever it took to make the venue run smoothly. And it was this diligence that earned her a manager position at Patroon, where Iman discovered the artistry behind the “universal language of food.”
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Keenly aware that while hands-on training was priceless, formal training would maximize her talents, Iman enrolled in City College, taking courses in Hospitality and Event Planning. She also took a variety of culinary courses at the Culinary Institute of America. While in school, Iman consulted for up-and-coming eateries. The result was becoming Manager and Director of Events for the upscale Puerto Rican establishment, Sofrito, which increased in name recognition and buzz during her tenure. From there, she bolstered her clientele working with the Hudson River Café which garnered rave reviews from customers and media, alike, such as Crain’s Online Business Magazine who gave high praise to Iman as a “savvy professional.”
Her recent venture as the owner of The Events Agency and Birthdaypartybooker.com, Iman continues to keep her roots in the nightlife and food industry by serving as a personal restaurant savant and guide in New York City for friends, colleagues and all who want to be in the know. Which is why the online publication XI Magazine made her their first and only weekly food writer, conducting restaurant reviews as well as interviews with the likes of Bobby Flay and G. Garvin.
Through all this Iman was one of the first to put her stamp on the brunch day party, launching 1st Sunday Brunch back in 2008 and since raising to be one of the most noted minority females in the NYC party scene. But don’t think she is all party and no substance, Iman has also gained notoriety for her dedicated fitness journey, losing over 90 pounds while combating depression all the while being a super nova motivational speaker and leader in the community among young adults. Exceeding expectations that even she never conjured in her sleep, Iman Dean is a living testament that from passion comes skill, endless opportunity…and purpose.
