Today we’d like to introduce you to Derricka Clayton.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
In January 2019, I experienced a tragedy when my ex-husband/co-parent of my autistic daughter passed away unexpectedly. Then 2 weeks after that, I lost my job. I was in the darkest mental space in my life, just very depressed, unsure of what was in store for my new normal. I prayed over my entire situation and asked God for guidance. Shortly after, I stepped out on faith to share my passion, “My vision of food…” with fellow food lovers. I wanted to learn as much about my craft as possible and be a subject matter expert of my passion, so I enrolled myself at Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in April 2019 and obtained my culinary degree trained in all Cooking & Baking Techniques specializing in Unique Plating, World Cuisines, Farm to Table and completed an extensive Externship which included hands-on fine dining and wedding catering experience. I proudly graduated with High Honors at the top of my class in June 2o2o. Since then, I have been under the mentorship of Chef Kevin Johnson, Dallas Top Black Wedding & Events Chef/Caterer to become his protegé and our very own Top Chef All-Star, Master Chef Tiffany Derry to help guide me into creating my own culinary lane. I now specialize in Private Dining Experiences, Luxurious Brunch, Exclusive Dinner Parties, Spectacular Catering Services, Convenient Personal Chef Services, and Traveling Chef Services to accommodate the needs of all my clientele. I continue to share my culinary knowledge and experiences with up-and-coming chefs while placing my unique thumbprint in the industry.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
If anyone tells you entrepreneurship is easy, they are lying to you!! For me, the road was far from easy despite grieving, accepting single parenthood of a child with autism spectrum, COVID, and financial hardships. Things can get scary at times, significantly if your business slows down. Also, time management plays a huge factor in ensuring you are maxing out your time as much as possible each day and getting enough rest.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Services I offer include:
LUXURY CATERING & GRAZING TABLES – Providing you the freshest ingredients, exceptional service, and a “Modern Spin on Classic Cuisine”,
I pride myself on offering Customized Menu Options & Unique Plating Presentations. Services offered include Corporate Events, Cocktail Parties/Happy Hours, Private Dinner Parties, Brunch Parties, Holiday Parties, Birthdays, Baby Showers, Soft/Grand Openings, Retirement Parties, or any special event just because. Whether you are looking for high-end cuisine or southern comfort meals, I can accommodate your vision to make it a full-blown EXPERIENCE. We take PRIDE in bringing your vision to reality and work hard to ensure that we EXCEED your expectations!!
EXCLUSIVE PRIVATE DINING & BRUNCH – Including elevated menus and 4-course dining experiences
PERSONAL CHEF SERVICES :
Time is a most precious asset.
Give yourself the gift of time and hire a personal chef to make your life easier. A personal chef prepares nutritious, delicious meals for you in your home, customized to your preferences; no more empty refrigerators! Meals are tailored to your exact tastes, including childhood favorites, classic cuisine, healthy choices, and down-home “comfort food.” I provide customized, palate-specific dishes for my clients.
SELF-WRITTEN & PUBLISHED COOKBOOK AUTHOR: Seasoned for the Soul Vol 1 & 2, Available in Hardcopy & Digital E-Book
I specialize in Elevated, Unique World Cuisine. My plating and unique flavors set me apart from others. My brand offers Top Notch service, customizing and personalizing each customer experience.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Build relationships with like-minded individuals and be of value to them. Time is difficult to spare and is very valuable so you want to help be an asset to potential mentors in order for them to be an asset to you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and volunteer your time and services to help gain your experience.
Pricing:
- Catering Rates Start at $1000
- Private Dining Rates Start at $600
- In-Home Personal Chef Rates Start at $625 per Cook Date
- Daily Chef Service Rates Start at $1000
- Travel Chef Services Vary (Cost of Services, PLUS Flight, Transportation, Lodging, & Groceries/Equipment (if needed)
Contact Info:
- Website: www.chefderricka.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefderricka/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chefderricka
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/chefderricka
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCD_MxV2VXJ7A9bZVfgEE4RQ
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@chefderricka
Image Credits
@CP_PHOTOS
