Meet Nicie Smullen

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nicie Smullen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nicie, do you have any habits that you feel contribute to your effectiveness?
Success in my business, Wicked Ambitionz Catering, comes down to building solid habits that keep me grounded and growing. Every week, I block out “CEO Time” just for me—to pause, reflect on where we’re headed, check in on my goals, and make space for big-picture thinking. I’ve learned that documenting my processes and being intentional about delegating is key—it helps my team stay aligned and gives me the freedom to focus on what I do best. I also make it a point to follow up with clients and leads at least three times a week. It’s a simple habit that keeps relationships strong and opens new doors. I show up for my brand every week, whether that means posting behind-the-scenes content, testing new ideas, or just connecting with our community. And every Friday, I take time to look at the numbers—what came in, what went out, and how we’re tracking toward our financial goals. These five habits keep me focused, motivated, and ready to grow Wicked Ambitionz into everything I’ve dreamed of and more.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I was just reminded last week by one of my mentors; Wicked Ambitionz Catering is more than a business—it’s a testimony. We specialize in soulful, globally inspired cuisine with a bold, elevated twist. From gourmet brunches to high-end dinners and wine tastings to elegant desserts, everything we create is made with love, legacy, and a whole lot of flavor.

What sets us apart is our commitment to custom experiences. We don’t just feed people—we tell stories through food. Each menu is curated to reflect the occasion, the culture, and the client. We blend tradition with innovation, and we believe food should feel like a warm hug and a celebration at the same time.

I’m most proud of how far we’ve come—especially knowing where we started. This journey hasn’t been easy. We began with humble tools and a whole lot of heart. While there are still long nights we cooked out of shared kitchens, days we still juggle full-time jobs and parenthood, and times we faced fires (literally and figuratively) that could’ve shut us down. But through each day, we stayed grounded in purpose and keep showing up.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that success isn’t about perfection—it’s about persistence. It’s about believing in your vision even when others can’t see it yet. I’ve also learned to ask for help, to build a strong team, and to make space for rest. Community and family have carried us through it all.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know about Wicked Ambitionz, it’s that we’re not just here to cater—we’re here to create legacy. We’re building something bigger than ourselves. This business has become a space to teach our children, empower our community, and now through our nonprofit, Wicked Ambitionz Academy, to inspire the next generation of chefs and entrepreneurs.

Every dish has a story. Ours is still being written—but we’re proud of every chapter so far.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend came to visit Denver, I’d curate a week they’d never forget—centered around Black and Brown excellence, soulful experiences, and meaningful memories. We’d kick things off with lunch at Welton Street Café, a historic gem in Five Points known for its Caribbean-Southern soul food, followed by a walk through the heart of the neighborhood that was once dubbed the “Harlem of the West.” Dinner and cocktails at 4Play Kitchen & Cocktails would set the tone with good vibes and even better flavors. We’d spend another day diving into culture at the Museum for Black Girls, an interactive space full of art, joy, and unapologetic celebration, then shop local at Black-owned boutiques like Green Spaces Market and NOLA Voodoo Tavern’s vendor pop-ups. Midweek, I’d plan a relaxing day in nature with visits to the Denver Botanic Gardens and a peaceful picnic at Cheesman Park. Of course, we’d explore the cannabis culture with a luxury ride on the Black owned Cannabis Experience party bus, complete with dispensary stops, local art, and infused education. We’d catch the community spirit at Vibes in the Park, soaking up live music, dancing, and shared joy with Black Denver. I’d also take them to places like Spangalang Brewery, Mimosa, or TeaLee’s Teahouse, and share the powerful stories at the Black American West Museum. To close out the trip, we’d finish with a private, chef-curated experience by Wicked Ambitionz Catering, of course!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Wicked Ambitionz Catering is more than just a business—it’s a family legacy in the making. Everything we do is rooted in love, culture, and the commitment to build something lasting for the next generation. My family is the why behind it all. They are my biggest inspiration, my support system, and the driving force behind every meal we serve and every event we cater.

My daughter Jacque is truly my biggest supporter. Watching her cheer me on, show up, and grow alongside this business reminds me daily why this work matters. I want her to see what’s possible when we lead with passion, purpose, and faith.

To my brothers and sisters—thank you for showing up in so many ways. But I have to give special recognition to Simone Renee. From day one, she’s been right beside me on this journey—not just as my sister but as my business partner, website builder, sous chef, taste tester extraordinaire, and now, the brilliant mind behind our nonprofit, Wicked Ambitionz Academy. Her commitment to the vision, her creativity, and her grind deserve more than just a shoutout—they deserve the world.

Having my family be a part of this business is the best part of all. It’s not just about food—it’s about legacy, love, and showing our children what’s possible when we build together.

Website: https://wickedambitionz.com/

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