Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jasmine Cato. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Jasmine, thanks for joining us today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

Cooking has always been a strong passion of mine. Throughout my adulthood it started bringing me joy to watch people enjoy what I’ve worked hard cooking! From feeding my college teammates, to cooking for my family when my mom was out of town, to later host gatherings where I served food, cooking really became one of my favorite hobbies! Of course when I was younger, I never really thought to actually DO anything with it. Honestly it wasn’t until the pandemic that I realized turning a passion (cooking) into a career was attainable. During the pandemic most sit down restaurants were closed and that gave me the opportunity to test out a new career. I was able to provide meals when meals weren’t always available and that’s when I knew Granny Jas had made its entrance!

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 a cook! I started cooking for friends and selling plates prior to the pandemic. Once the pandemic hit I came up with new ideas that I knew people would love. I specialize in southern-style cooking. I’m known for my southern dishes but most known for my “soul food pies.” My soul food pies are what got me to the place that I am at today! Making a dish that isn’t sold in any restaurant knowing people could only get it from you (other culinary experts here in Dallas have started making the pie as well) is very rewarding! I’m most proud of the growth of my business, as I started it from the ground up, by myself. I never expected to turn my passion into something that consistently brings joy into others’ lives.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Social media places a major role in this day in age! When I first started cooking I would post things on my personal – private instagram account. However, i later realized that my business could never grow if others weren’t able to see or share anything I had to offer. I made a business instagram and TikTok page which began getting the views of others all over the world! Word of mouth & being able to share reels, videos and pictures is what social media is all about! It only takes that 1 person to post your item and before you know it your followers & customers have increased! I’m still not where I want to be followers wise but patience is key!

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

Word of mouth! My followers are everything! My followers & friends share my posts/videos which in turn has helped my clientele continue to grow! Catering to my clients needs & wants has also helped keep & expand my customer base.

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