Today we’d like to introduce you to Cetonya Martin.
Hi Cetonya, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started my journey with a simple love for cooking and serving others. What began as preparing meals for family and friends quickly grew into something more meaningful as I realized how food brings people together and creates lasting memories. Over time, I refined my skills, experimented with diverse flavors, and learned how to turn passion into purpose. That same passion also led me to become a published author, sharing my story and the healing power of food through The Kneaded Calm.
As demand grew, I took intentional steps to build a professional catering business—focusing on quality, consistency, and listening closely to clients’ needs. Today, I’m proud to offer thoughtfully prepared dishes rooted in comfort, culture, and creativity, while also using my voice and writing to inspire others. My story is still unfolding, but every milestone has been shaped by hard work, faith, and a commitment to helping people feel at home—both at the table and within themselves.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like many small business journeys, there were moments of uncertainty, learning curves, and setbacks. Facing challenges such as balancing time and finances, loss, navigating the business side of food service, and building visibility for my brand. There are times when growth is slower than expected, which can test your patience and confidence.
However, each struggle is a lesson. Challenges push us to become more disciplined, adaptable, and intentional about our craft. I learned the importance of perseverance, asking for help, and trusting the process. Looking back, the obstacles weren’t roadblocks—they were building blocks that helps to shape you as person.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At the heart of what I do is love—love for cooking, love for people, and love for the moments that happen around a table. My journey isn’t just about food; it’s about using what I was given to bring comfort, joy, and connection to others. Cooking has always been my way of showing care, whether it was for family, friends, or anyone who needed a warm meal and a listening ear.
What matters most to me is that the food feels real and familiar, like something made with intention and soul. I pour myself into every dish, and every product because it carries my story, my faith, and my gratitude. I’m most proud that my brand still feels like me—honest, heartfelt, and grounded. I want readers to know that behind every plate is a woman who truly cares, who cooks from the heart which she learned from here mama, and who believes that food has the power to heal, bring people together, and make them feel seen.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memory is preparing and cooking for the holidays with my mom and my sisters. The house would be full of energy as we cooked for days, getting everything ready for the entire family to come over. There was so much laughter, food, and togetherness—everyone eating until they were full, falling asleep wherever they landed, then waking up and doing it all over again.
Those holidays weren’t just about the meals. They were about being together—playing dominoes and card games, singing karaoke, and enjoying each other’s company. The kitchen was filled with Southern baked cakes, pies, and desserts—so many that you couldn’t possibly choose just one, so you tasted them all. And just to see the faces and hear the noises made with every bite taken was pure joy. At the end, there were containers and foil everywhere as everyone packed up to-go plates to enjoy for the rest of the week. Those moments shaped my love for cooking and taught me that food is really about family, joy, and shared memories.
Pricing:
- we work with all budgets
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iii_chicks/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61587619417779
- Other: https://tiktok.com/@3.chicks.inc
