Her Story
About Melissa
Melissa "Nikki" Price-Whitehurst is a hospitality professional with more than 20 years of experience spanning restaurant operations, food and beverage service, team leadership, and business management. She currently serves as a Server at Aqua Grille in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, where she delivers exceptional guest experiences in a fine dining environment while mentoring and training fellow team members. Throughout her career, Nikki has built expertise in restaurant operations, staff development, wine pairings, private events, and guest satisfaction, earning a reputation for personalized service and operational excellence.
Nikki began her career in the hospitality industry while still in high school and steadily advanced through positions including server, bartender, manager, general manager, and catering business owner. She played a key role in launching and growing multiple restaurant concepts, overseeing recruitment, employee training, supplier negotiations, budgeting, and business development. Her leadership contributed to sustained business growth, successful event operations, and strong financial performance. She also helped implement innovative food service programs during the COVID-19 pandemic to support continued business operations. Nikki attended Tallahassee Community College while participating in dual enrollment studies at Florida State University, choosing to pursue career opportunities in hospitality as her responsibilities expanded.
Driven by a passion for genuine hospitality and meaningful guest experiences, Nikki is now focused on achieving her long-term goal of opening her own neighborhood restaurant and bar. Drawing on decades of industry experience, she is committed to creating a business built on respect, collaboration, and exceptional customer service. In addition to her professional accomplishments, she has served as Promotions Chair for Ivanhoe Village Mainstreet, where she organized community events that supported local businesses and neighborhood engagement. Nikki continues to combine operational expertise, resilience, and a people-first approach as she prepares for the next chapter of her career.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Melissa
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my willingness to learn every aspect of the hospitality industry and my determination to continually grow. From serving and bartending to managing restaurants and owning a catering business, each role has strengthened my leadership, problem-solving, and commitment to exceptional guest service. Even during difficult experiences, I have remained focused on learning, improving, and moving forward.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to believe in their abilities and never allow setbacks or unfair treatment to define their careers. Stay focused on your goals, continue developing your skills, and build a career that reflects your values. Success comes through perseverance, professionalism, and creating opportunities for yourself.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in the hospitality industry is overcoming workplace environments that do not always foster respect and equality. At the same time, there are tremendous opportunities for experienced professionals to create businesses that prioritize outstanding service, strong team culture, and genuine hospitality. I am excited to pursue that opportunity by opening my own neighborhood restaurant and bar built on those principles.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value respect, integrity, perseverance, and genuine hospitality. I believe in creating welcoming environments where both guests and employees feel valued, and I strive to build a business culture centered on professionalism, collaboration, and exceptional customer service.
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