Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Gillespie.
Hi Jennifer, 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 backstories with our readers?
Well, I actually started out in a totally different industry!! I was a licensed cosmetologist for over 19 years! I grew up in the kitchen, with my family who worked in and owned restaurants! That just wasn’t the route I wanted to take when I was younger!
LIFE happened and I mean it “HAPPENED!!!” I got where I am TODAY, by simply asking God what I was supposed to do… NOW!! I went into the journey as Jennifer and came out as Chef J Rae’Chel!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Well, we know there’s a SEASON for everything!!! What I will say is that in some seasons, I’ve surely felt some bumps along the way being an online-based eatery!! It’s been a bit taxing, as I wish I was able to service EVERY potential client that reached out! A brick and mortar establishment would DEFINITELY help in that area!!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m the owner and Lead Chef for CDT and MORE Catering Services! I offer culinary services ranging from private dinners for two to Family Reunions of 200+!!! I specialize in providing a Fine Dining Experience with a “Southern Flare!” At the tip of the pandemic, I launched my Virtual Cooking Sessions!
I’m known for my introductory menu item “Deep FRIIIIED Tacos” and my Seasoning Line “and MORE Shakes”, which offers an “All-Purpose” Blend and a Cajun Style Blend! I’m ESPECIALLY proud of the Gift that God has given me in the Culinary Arts because I haven’t had any FORMAL education!! I’m eternally grateful for my journey and I wouldn’t take anything from it! I’m also proud of how far I’ve grown in my craft as a black female and single mother, in the South! I was recognized in September of 2021, as Entrepreneur of The Year in the Mid-South Merit Awards!!
What sets me apart is my drive and push to perfect my craft and present quality EVERY time! Sure, we ALL have rough days… but there’s gotta be SOMETHING that pulls you up by your bootstraps and pushes you to gather yourself and KEEP GOING! I thoroughly enjoy creating menus that will complement the tone for my clients’ events!
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Consistency is KEY, on my journey!! It’s been my drive and push to BELIEVE in God, in myself, and in the vision for my brand, even in moments where I’ve felt like nobody saw me or supported me! I’ve kept promoting, advertising, and “putting my business in the streets” in the effort of becoming a household name!
Contact Info:
- Email: booking@cdtandmore.com
- Website: www.cdtandmore.com
- Instagram: @_cdtandmore_
- Facebook: @cdtandmore
- TikTok: @preferredculinaryvendor
Image Credits
DeMarris Manns, DeMarris Manns Photography Denzel Starks, and Marketing Is The New Black
