Apero by Malvika is a trusted provider of custom catering, stunning gift baskets, and opulent grazing tables. From a young age, the trajectory of Malvika Mulchandani’s professional life was set towards the world of fashion. Starting with Dior and later transitioning to Louis Vuitton, her career in the fashion industry was thriving. However, despite her success, her enduring passion for food remained a central aspect of her life. This passion eventually led her to establish Apero, a grazing table and catering enterprise that has captured the hearts and palates of many.
Apero began as a modest hobby, crafting cheese at home and sharing it with friends and family. The enthusiastic reception and support she received motivated her to expand its scope. What started as a private pursuit gradually developed into the thriving business that Apero represents today, driven by a sincere dedication to food and community. This article delves into the journey, challenges, and philosophy behind Apero, showcasing how a passion project turned into a flourishing enterprise.
What were your early career aspirations?
From a young age, my professional trajectory has been focused on fashion. Beginning during my schooling, I embarked on a career in the fashion industry, commencing with Dior and subsequently transitioning to Louis Vuitton. Nevertheless, my enduring passion for food has consistently remained a central aspect of my life.
What inspired you to start a grazing table company?
A: When I launched Apero, I did not foresee its evolution into a comprehensive grazing table and catering enterprise. Initially, it began as a modest hobby of crafting cheese at home and sharing it with friends and family. However, the enthusiastic reception and support I received motivated me to expand its scope. What initially started as a private pursuit gradually developed into the thriving business that Apero represents today, driven by a sincere dedication to food and community.
Were there any pivotal moments or experiences that led you to this business idea?
A: There was no single pivotal moment that influenced my decision. I always had a strong inclination to remain active in the workforce, but upon becoming a parent, I realized that a traditional 9-to-5 job wouldn’t accommodate my need to be present for my children. Looking back, operating my own business has proven to be significantly more demanding than a standard job, devoid of fixed hours entirely. Nonetheless, it has granted me invaluable flexibility to bring my children to work and spend as much time with them as possible. Launching Apero and overseeing my own business has enabled me to achieve a balance between my professional ambitions and parental responsibilities.
How did you get started with Apero?
A: The founding of Apero unfolded in a remarkably natural and seamless manner, a process that continues to astound me when I reflect on its origins. My profound passion for food and the joy of sharing it with others served as the driving motivation. On a restless night, I decided to transform this passion into something tangible—cheese. The following day, I embarked on the journey of experimenting with cheese-making, eager to introduce my creations to others. From that pivotal moment, opportunities began to manifest gradually. Despite my limited experience and often encountering unfamiliar tasks, I embraced each challenge wholeheartedly. I never shied away from any opportunity, and through persistence and some serendipity, Apero began to thrive. What initially began as a simple idea born from late-night curiosity evolved into a flourishing business, powered by an authentic love for food and community.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when starting out?
A: When I reflect on the early stages of Apero, I recall facing numerous daunting challenges. I was inexperienced and often overwhelmed, tasked with learning the intricacies of running a business while caring for two very young children. Balancing these responsibilities was exceptionally demanding. I had to master cooking, product packing, social media management, customer communication, and order fulfillment—all independently. Today, I am fortunate to have an outstanding and supportive team, to whom I owe immense gratitude. Their dedication and hard work have been indispensable. Even now, as I look back, I marvel at how I managed to handle everything during those initial days. It was an immense challenge, but with unwavering determination and perseverance, I navigated through it and developed Apero into what it is today.
Can you describe the early days of your business and how you got your first clients?
A: The early days of Apero were dynamic and intense. Initially, my customers consisted of friends and family whose steadfast support through orders, feedback, and abundant affection laid the groundwork for my business. As word spread and appreciation for my products grew, the customer base expanded naturally. Apero’s success was predominantly fueled by word of mouth, which remains a crucial factor to this day. The positive experiences and recommendations from satisfied customers have played a pivotal role in broadening the reach of my business. I am deeply appreciative of this grassroots support, which continues to underpin Apero’s development and achievements.
How has the company evolved since its inception?
A: I am deeply appreciative of the remarkable growth of Apero. What began in my home kitchen expanded into my garage and, after an extensive search, led to our first full kitchen in March of last year. We are now thrilled to be moving into two kitchens. Our team has grown from just myself to a close-knit group that I proudly consider family. The journey has been a challenging yet rewarding adventure, and I wouldn’t change a single moment of it. This achievement would not have been possible without the steadfast support of our exceptional team, dedicated mentors who guided me every step of the way, and the constant encouragement from friends, family, and our loyal customers. I am incredibly grateful for all of this, and I eagerly anticipate what the future holds for Apero.
What is the core philosophy or mission behind Apero?
A: To make tummies happy everywhere we go.
What types of events do you cater to, and what has been your favorite event so far?
At Apero, we provide catering services for a diverse range of events, such as house parties, birthdays (both for children and adults), formal dinners, small home gatherings, corporate events, and retail setups—essentially any kind of celebration. Among the numerous memorable events we’ve catered, one that stands out is Radhika Merchant’s bridal shower. The Princess Diaries theme evoked a profound sense of nostalgia, and designing a grazing table that complemented the theme was a truly enjoyable experience. The chance to combine creativity with such a beloved theme made it a project I will always remember fondly.
Do you offer any customizations or special themes for your grazing tables?
A: A substantial focus of our operations at Apero involves personalized service and customization. We invest time in interacting with each client to fully grasp their aesthetic preferences, culinary preferences, and the particular requirements of their occasion. This thorough approach enables us to customize our services to align seamlessly with their vision, whether it be for a polished corporate event, a playful birthday celebration, or an intimate gathering at home. Our dedication to customization guarantees that each event and grazing table we design is distinctive and unforgettable, reflecting the unique style and preferences of our clientele.
What are some of the biggest challenges you face in the grazing table industry today?
Personally, I find it challenging to feel daunted by the achievements of my peers in this industry. It can be overwhelming to witness the remarkable work others are accomplishing. However, aside from this, I don’t see any other major hurdles. Each individual is pursuing their own journey with creativity and excellence, and I firmly believe that there is ample opportunity for everyone in this field by the grace of God.
Can you share a success story or a moment that made you feel particularly proud of your business?
Apero represents more than just a business to me; it embodies my passion and stands as a daily testament to ongoing achievements. Each day, I take great pride in observing its evolution—from its modest origins to its current stature. While I deeply value witnessing people savor my food, the moments leading up to their first bite and their initial reactions can be filled with anticipation. Nevertheless, the enduring pride I feel for Apero, acknowledging its journey and the promising future ahead, brings me consistent joy every day.