Today we’d like to introduce you to Cheniqua Alanis.
Cheniqua, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Eggs in a cast iron skillet! That was the first thing my Granny taught me how to make at only five years of age. Every since then, cooking has been my passion. I knew at an early age I wanted to be apart of the culinary world. I took culinary classes in high school and then went to The Art Institute of Dallas. After various kitchen jobs, I went on to working in corporate dining for Raytheon. I’m a people person so working in that corporate setting allowed me to build relationships with the same people everyday. In 2014, I became a mom. After working since the age of 15, I became a stay at home mom. It was so different to me because I’m so used to multitasking taking care of people, and now I have only one (and my husband lol). Chef Mama Creations was born six months after I gave birth. I had a friend who wanted to make healthier food choices.
So I started by meal prepping salads in Mason jars for her. About a month later after posting it on Facebook, people wanted to place orders. Fast forward later I’m making deliveries to clients, pushing a stroller with one hand and pulling an ice chest with the other. This May, Chef Mama Creations will be in year four. I’ve expanded to catering special events including weddings and quinceaneras. Basically, any event where food is needed Chef Mama is ready to cater, so you can attend to your guests. #MAMAGOTYOU
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
No road is ever easy especially when you take a leap of faith. I remember when I was pregnant, I was so scared cause I thought who can I trust to watch my baby. I didn’t want her to go to daycare cause she was my first. Starting a business and being a new mom, gave me that push and busy multitasking I was accustomed to.
Please tell us about Chef Mama Creations.
Chef Mama specializes in catering for your special events. I pride my self on giving my clients what they want and with their budgets in mind. I like for my client’s personalities to show with the food they serve. Many catering companies let the client pick from a small selection of foods/dishes. I love a theme, fusion just the little details that guest will enjoy. People always point out, oh yeah Chef Mama, the chef with the purple jacket (it’s my signature). The smiles and compliments that I receive from clients and their guests make me proud because cooking isn’t something you’re just taught it comes from within your soul.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
Honestly, if I had to change one thing, it would be…I wish I could have started earlier. When I started my business, my Granny had just retired. I wish I could have started my business with her years prior before her health declined.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 4694418588
- Email: chefmamacreations@gmail.com
- Instagram: @chefmamacreations
- Facebook: Chet Mama Creations
Image Credit:
Justin O’Keith Creative, Liz Lion
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