Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly.
Kelly, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
With the advent of so many meal options and cooking-related equipment, it was my goal to bring people back together in the kitchen. The Cookery Dallas has now been open for 18 months in the Design District. Support from the city has been amazing. Each month, we offer numerous public classes, and we also host small private ones as well.
I am excited for the future of The Cookery, and I want to announce that we will be opening our second location, The Cookery Fort Worth, in early 2019.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Starting this business has taught me more than I could have imagined. It has been humbling, rewarding, frustrating and everything in between. It’s the hardest work I have ever done. I am very proud of how far The Cookery Dallas has come in a short time.
One struggle was finding the right space for The Cookery to call home. I had a very clear vision for the environment I wanted to create. I needed a space that would accommodate both a hands-on cooking area, as well as our large custom built communal dining table.
Another struggle was realizing that the business had grown to a point where I couldn’t manage every aspect of it myself. Trusting other people with my company was difficult. I am grateful for my staff, especially my fellow instructor and “right hand woman,” Fiona Forney.
With the additional studio in Fort Worth, we are currently looking for additional team members.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about The Cookery Dallas – what should we know?
When you attend our hands-on classes at The Cookery, you will learn to confidently prepare a complete 3 or 4 course meal while also meeting new people in an “at home” environment.
We provide the opportunity to try new dishes, especially those from other regions and countries. Then, with our recipes sent to you after class, you can efficiently shop for ingredients, take a break from your usual routine, and recreate a special meal for your family and friends.
How do you, personally, define success? What’s your criteria, the markers you’re looking out for, etc?
Success is seeing classes filled with people eager to enjoy a new experience. I am thankful for how well received The Cookery has been and that the folks of Dallas love our “cooking class meets dinner party” concept. I am grateful that we have had so many repeat guests who join us and bring a friend or family member who now enjoy our classes too.
Pricing:
- Public cooking classes – $95 per person
Contact Info:
- Address: 1130 Dragon Street, Suite 180,
Dallas, TX 75207 - Website: www.thecookerydallas.com
- Phone: 469.400.8514
- Email: thecookery@thecookerydallas.com
Image Credit:
Kate Sherga & Clarence Hodrick III
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