We recently connected with Veronica Wells and have shared our conversation below.

Veronica, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.

My journey as the owner of Seared Pink has been defined by a significant risk I took earlier in my career, a risk that ultimately shaped my path and led me to where I am today. This risk wasn’t a dramatic leap off a cliff but a courageous step forward in a challenging environment.

It all began when I assumed the role of executive chef at Fox Hall Resort. At first glance, it seemed like a promising opportunity to showcase my culinary skills and make a mark in the industry. However, what I encountered was an atmosphere riddled with biases and prejudices, primarily due to my identity as a lesbian woman. It was a stark reminder of the existing disparities in the restaurant industry, which has long been dominated by men.

In the face of skepticism, criticism, and even outright prejudice, I found myself at a crossroads. I could have chosen to conform, to hide my identity, and compromise on my principles to make things easier. But that was not the path I wanted to tread. I was determined not just to prove my prowess as a skilled chef but also to be an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the culinary world.

The challenges didn’t end there. I also had to confront instances of racism and gender bias, which only fueled my commitment to overcoming these hurdles. My unwavering work ethic and dedication to my craft became my armor in this battle for recognition and acceptance.

Amidst these challenges, my mother’s playful comparison of me to Chef Gordon Ramsay, with a ponytail no less, served as both a source of humor and a reminder of her unwavering support.

Ultimately, the risk I took by persisting in a challenging environment laid the foundation for my journey towards Seared Pink’s ownership. It’s not just about running a culinary business; it’s about creating an inclusive space where talent knows no boundaries. Seared Pink is a manifestation of my commitment to diversity, culinary excellence, and providing a welcoming haven where individuals from all walks of life can unite to savor exceptional food and hospitality. The risk I took to stay true to myself and my principles was the catalyst for the inclusive culinary haven that Seared Pink has become today.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I am the proud owner of Seared Pink, and our story goes beyond just being a culinary business; it’s a reflection of our commitment to convenience, nutrition, inclusivity, and social responsibility. Our journey starts with a deep dedication to making life easier for busy individuals and families who struggle to find time for nutritious meals.

Our specialty lies in our carefully curated meals, meticulously crafted to seamlessly blend mouthwatering flavors with nutritional value, with the added benefit of most options containing fewer than 600 calories. Whether you’re constantly on the go or simply short on time, our convenient, healthy snacks, and an extensive range of lunch and dinner choices can be delivered right to your doorstep. However, Seared Pink is more than just meal prep; it embodies culinary excellence.

At the core of our brand is Chef Pinky, whose passion and unwavering dedication set us apart in the industry. She adds a personal touch to your culinary experience, offering private chef services and catering for those in search of a truly customized gastronomic journey.

Yet, what truly distinguishes us is our unwavering commitment to the community that has supported us throughout our journey. Our values revolve around social responsibility, and we actively work towards making a positive impact. One of our proudest initiatives is “Meals for All,” where we acknowledge that access to nutritious meals is a fundamental necessity. We’ve taken concrete steps to address this need by providing free meal packs to families and individuals facing financial hardships and residing in local motels. These meals aren’t just nourishing; they’re delicious and comforting.

Our story transcends culinary innovation; it’s a testament to resilience and the determination to break through barriers. As the owner of Seared Pink, my journey mirrors the ambition to succeed in the predominantly male-dominated restaurant industry while embracing my identity as a lesbian woman. It all began during my tenure as the executive chef at Fox Hall Resort, where I confronted challenges of skepticism and prejudice. However, I remained steadfast in my mission to advocate for diversity and inclusion within the culinary world.

Behind the scenes, I’m not just a culinary artist; I’m a single mom/aunt responsible for my 14-year-old nephew, who plays an integral role in my business. Together, we’ve created the brand “Bright Pink and Bold,” reflecting the vibrant flavors of our food.

Seared Pink is more than just a place to savor exceptional cuisine; it’s a testament to the power of resilience, inclusivity, and the desire to give back to the community. We invite you to join us on our flavorful journey, savor our exceptional food, and embrace our values.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

Certainly, here’s the story of a pivotal moment during the pandemic when I had to navigate a major change in my career due to being laid off.

When the pandemic hit, it sent shockwaves through the restaurant industry and my career as a chef. I was working at a prominent restaurant, pouring my heart and soul into creating exquisite dishes for diners. But as the lockdowns and restrictions took hold, the restaurant had to make some tough decisions to survive, and unfortunately, one of those decisions was laying off several employees, including myself.

At first, the news was devastating. I had invested years honing my culinary skills, and suddenly I found myself without a job, along with countless others in the same industry. The uncertainty of the future loomed large, and I knew I had to pivot quickly to adapt to this new reality.

Instead of dwelling on the setback, I decided to use this as an opportunity for reinvention. The pandemic had brought about a surge in demand for convenient and healthy dining options, with more people staying home and seeking meal delivery and prepared food services. I saw a chance to leverage my culinary expertise and passion for creating delicious, nutritious meals to meet this growing need.

That’s when the idea for Seared Pink was born. I knew that I could offer something unique and valuable to busy individuals and families struggling to find time to prepare meals at home. Seared Pink would provide carefully curated, health-conscious meals with a focus on convenience, all while reflecting my commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility.

The pivot wasn’t easy, and there were challenges along the way, from securing funding to building a brand from scratch. But the pandemic had taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability, and I was determined to turn this setback into a success story.

As Seared Pink started to take shape, I couldn’t help but think about the countless others who had been affected by the pandemic. That’s when I launched the “Meals for All” initiative, offering free meal packs to those facing financial hardships. It was my way of giving back to the community that had supported me throughout my journey.

Looking back, getting laid off during the pandemic was a turning point in my career. It forced me to pivot, adapt, and ultimately create something that not only fulfilled a growing need but also aligned with my values of inclusivity and social responsibility. Seared Pink has become more than just a business; it’s a symbol of resilience and a testament to the power of finding opportunity in adversity.

Can you tell us the story behind how you met your business partner?

Certainly, here’s the heartwarming story of how I made the decision to bring my mom on board as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Seared Pink, recognizing her incredible skills honed through her illustrious career and her role as my trusted confidant and best friend.

My mom has always been an inspiration to me. Her career trajectory, with experience at The Coca-Cola Company, Intercontinental Hotels Group, and her own successful business, Proper Xchange, showcased her marketing genius and exceptional website design skills. Her accomplishments and expertise in these domains were nothing short of remarkable.

As I embarked on my journey with Seared Pink, I found myself navigating the complex landscape of not just culinary entrepreneurship but also the intricacies of marketing and online presence. I recognized the critical role that effective marketing and a compelling online platform played in the success of a business, especially in today’s digital age.

That’s when it hit me – who better to guide Seared Pink’s marketing and website design than my own mom, who had a proven track record of excellence in these areas? Her wealth of experience and knowledge could be a game-changer for Seared Pink’s growth and visibility.

However, the decision to bring her on board as the COO was not solely based on her professional credentials. She was also my best friend, someone who had always been there to lend an ear and offer unwavering support. Her ability to listen to my rants, offer guidance, and provide a sense of comfort was invaluable.

So, I made the leap and offered her the role of COO at Seared Pink. It was a decision rooted in both her exceptional skills and our deep personal connection. She accepted the role with enthusiasm, and together, we embarked on a journey to elevate Seared Pink’s marketing strategy and online presence.

Under her guidance, Seared Pink’s marketing efforts flourished. Her creative vision and expertise in website design transformed our online platform into an engaging and user-friendly experience. Her strategic insights breathed new life into our brand, attracting a wider audience and enhancing our reputation.

But beyond the professional successes, having my mom as the COO brought an added layer of warmth and trust to our working relationship. It strengthened our bond and made Seared Pink not just a business venture but a family endeavor.

In the end, my decision to employ my mom as the COO of Seared Pink was a testament to her remarkable skills, her unwavering support, and the belief that together, we could achieve something truly exceptional. It’s a decision I’ve never regretted, and I am grateful for the invaluable contributions she continues to make to our business and our relationship.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.searedpink.com
• Instagram: searedpink
• Facebook: searedpinkatl
• Linkedin: searedpink

Image Credits
Victoria Pasha