On November 13, I called Spice N Vybe to inquire about hosting a small birthday gathering for my birthday on November 26. I was given the owner's phone number, called, and left a voicemail. I never received a return call.
On November 19, I contacted Spice N Vybe via Instagram. As of January 7, 2026, that message remains unread.
Also on November 19, I called and spoke directly with Linda, who confirmed that I could host my birthday gathering at Spice N Vybe with friends and family. We discussed using the patio for approximately 15-20 guests, and I informed her that I would have decorations and a cake.
On November 26, I arrived at 6:00 PM, one hour before guests were expected to arrive. I introduced myself to the cashier, who called Linda over to speak with me. After Linda gave me approval to begin setting up, we started decorating.
About 20 minutes into setup, Linda approached me and stated that the owner wanted to speak with me. He was on the phone and observing us through the security cameras. He asked for my name and questioned what we were doing. I explained that it was my birthday and that guests were expected to arrive within the next 30 minutes. I told him that I called him weeks ago and left a voicemail, and he said he never got the call and proceeded to confirm the same number that I called. I also shared that each year I intentionally choose a local business to support for my birthday, especially since my birthday falls close to Thanksgiving, when many people stay home with family.
Despite this, the owner instructed me to remove the decorations, stating that nothing could be set up due to insurance requirements and because I had not paid for the space. He mentioned that events often leave messes and that insurance is required to cover potential damage. None of this information had been communicated to me in any prior interaction.
When I arrived at 6:00 PM and asked about using the patio, the staff did not know the pricing. It was only after the owner directed them to a pricing sheet that I was informed of the cost. I was shocked by the pricing and stated that I was both unable and unwilling to pay such a fee 20 minutes before guests were scheduled to arrive.
We immediately took down the decorations, organized everything, cleaned the area, and left the space exactly as we found it. I then sat in my car, located a nearby Thai restaurant, and redirected my party there for my birthday dinner.
I intended to support a local Black-owned business during the holiday season, but was unable to do so due to a significant lack of communication and clarity. I have been a loyal customer of this establishment since 2021, when it was previously known as Perry Wings, and have patronized Spice N Vybe multiple times.
This entire experience left a bad taste in my mouth. read more