We recently connected with Krystal Norman and have shared our conversation below.

Krystal, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Alright, so you had your idea and then what happened? Can you walk us through the story of how you went from just an idea to executing on the idea

From Humble Beginnings to Supreme Eats Houston: A Journey of Growth and Discovery
It all started in a very humble way. I never imagined that a simple moment in my kitchen would lead to the launch of my luxury catering company, Supreme Eats Houston. My friend was staying at my house for a while while her new home was being built. She was all about fitness and was focused on maintaining a clean, healthy diet. One evening, she offered me a meal prep she’d purchased, and as soon as I saw it, I knew I could do better. Not just in taste, but in creating something truly special.

I had always loved cooking, but this moment sparked a thought: What if I could prepare these meal preps for her, and if she liked them, she could pay me to do it regularly? She agreed, and from that point on, the ball started rolling. I put in the work—creating meals that were not only healthy but full of flavor. And when she loved the food, she started telling her friends at the gym. Before I knew it, I was making meal preps for a small group of people.

From Meal Prep to Overwhelm
At first, the growth was exciting. The demand kept increasing, and I found myself constantly adjusting to fit new clients’ needs. Some wanted keto-friendly meals, others wanted high-protein, low-carb, or vegan options. Each person had their own restrictions and dietary goals, which was amazing—yet it was overwhelming. I was working long hours, cooking, packaging, delivering, and keeping track of orders, all while managing the unique requirements of each client.

But the energy and passion I once had started to wane. I knew I couldn’t keep up with this level of demand without burning out. After about two years of nonstop meal prepping, I made the difficult decision to slowly phase out of it. As much as I loved feeding people, meal prepping wasn’t truly aligned with my heart or my ultimate goals. I knew I wanted to create food that wasn’t just nutritious, but rich in flavor, creativity, and joy—a far cry from the strict constraints of meal prep.

A Shift Toward Catering: The African American Police Officers League
It wasn’t long before I made the transition into catering, and my first major opportunity came by way of my good friend—a connection that turned out to be pivotal. I was offered the chance to cater an event for the African American Police Officers League (AAPOL). I was both nervous and thrilled. This wasn’t just any gig—it was a chance to truly showcase my skills in a way I hadn’t done before. The pressure was on, but I was ready.

The event went off without a hitch, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. That was the beginning of something special. Word spread quickly, and over time, I started catering more events. From small family parties to larger community gatherings, I had the privilege of serving people who appreciated great food and great service. What I didn’t realize at the time was that this was just the start of my journey into something much bigger.

Growth Through Word of Mouth and Community Connections
I’ve always believed in the power of word of mouth. The events I catered led to more events, and people began to recognize me for not just the food, but also the genuine care I took in serving them. I treated every event like it was for family, because in a way, it was. The relationships I built over the years were rooted in trust, quality, and a shared love for good food.

One of the highlights was catering the Yates High School Class Reunion, the Hightower High School Band Banquet, and even the AAPOL Scholarship Banquet, where I had the honor of serving notable figures like Mayor Sylvester Turner, Chief of Police, and the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. These were moments that made me stop and appreciate the magnitude of what I was building. It wasn’t just about food; it was about serving my community, celebrating milestones, and creating memories through cuisine.

Overcoming Challenges: From Self-Funding to Expanding
In the early days, it was just me. I didn’t have a big team, a large budget, or fancy equipment. I used my own money to upgrade my supplies and invest in things like chafing dishes, serving trays, and quality catering tools. There were moments of doubt—wondering if I could keep up or if it was too much. But each time, I pushed forward. The hustle was real.

In 2024, I could finally afford to create a website. This was a major milestone. Up until that point, I had done everything myself—from cooking to marketing to deliveries. The website was my chance to create a professional online presence that truly reflected the level of service and food I was offering. And while it was a huge leap forward, it didn’t come easy. I had to learn the ins and outs of web design, content creation, and online marketing.

Taking the Leap: Team Expansion and Business Coaching
Fast forward to 2025. With business growing, I reached a point where I needed to bring on a team to help with the larger events. I couldn’t do it all anymore, and the idea of growing a business required more than just me. I hired staff for bigger events, which allowed me to focus on the creative side of things—the cooking and the experience. But I also knew there was more I needed to learn about the business side.

That’s when I made another pivotal decision: I hired a business coach. This was one of the best decisions I’ve made so far. I started learning about systems, operations, marketing strategies, and financial planning—things I never thought I’d need to know, but were absolutely essential for running a successful business.

And I’m not done yet. I’ve realized that you can’t do it alone, and that mentorship and continuous learning are crucial to growth. As I look to the future, I’m actively seeking a mentor who can guide me to the next level. There’s still so much to learn, but I’ve come to appreciate the journey—the challenges, the victories, and the “aha!” moments that come with building something meaningful.

A Journey of Dedication, Growth, and Community
Looking back on these past three years, I’m in awe of how far I’ve come. From meal prepping for one friend to catering major events and serving Houston’s finest, it’s been a ride filled with passion, hard work, and community. But I know the journey is far from over. There’s still so much more to achieve, so much more to learn, and so many more people to serve.

In the end, it’s not just about the food—it’s about the connections, the experiences, and the joy that comes from creating something special for others. I’m incredibly proud of Supreme Eats Houston and the growth it’s seen, but I’m even more excited for what’s to come.

Krystal, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m not originally from the South, but my roots run deep in Southern traditions. I was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, in a large, close-knit family where food was always the center of everything. Growing up, the kitchen was my playground. I learned how to cook by watching my grandmothers, grandfather, uncles, and aunties in the kitchen. My grandfather was a self-taught chef, making his own barbecue sauce and wine, which he sold locally. My aunt ran her own restaurant. It was a family affair. While other kids were playing, I was always in the kitchen, trying to learn as much as I could about the food I was surrounded by.

Food wasn’t just about eating—it was about coming together, telling stories, and sharing love. My maternal roots come from Montgomery, Alabama, and Cole Mountain, West Virginia, so I was raised on the best of both worlds. A double dose of Southern influence, if you will—soul food from Alabama and Appalachian flavors from West Virginia. These influences shaped how I see food, as something that’s meant to nourish the body and soul.

Fast forward to college. I moved to Texas, and my world expanded in ways I hadn’t expected. I fell in love with the food culture here—the rich flavors of barbecue, the complexity of Creole cuisine, and the beauty of combining new techniques and ingredients with what I already knew. As a college student far from home, like so many others, I spent a lot of holidays cooking for my friends and classmates, who were also away from their families. We gathered around food, shared stories, and created our own little piece of home in Texas. And that’s when I realized that cooking was more than just a passion—it was a gift I could share with the world.

At Supreme Eats Houston, we specialize in creating luxury catering experiences that are personalized, flavorful, and unforgettable. Our offerings are diverse, from full-service catering for events like weddings, corporate gatherings, and community celebrations, to customized menus that highlight the best of Southern flavors with a modern twist. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner or a grand celebration, we focus on delivering a dining experience that feels like home, but with a luxurious touch.

Our Services:

Luxury Event Catering: Custom-crafted menus for weddings, corporate events, retirement parties, galas, and more.
Private Dining: Customized in-home dining experiences for small gatherings or special occasions.

Event Planning and Styling: From table settings to full-service event coordination, we ensure that every detail of your event aligns with your vision.

Corporate Catering: Elegant, high-quality meals for business lunches, meetings, and conferences that will impress your clients and colleagues.
What Sets Us Apart
What truly sets Supreme Eats Houston apart is our commitment to creating experiences, not just meals. Every dish we serve is crafted with care, passion, and the highest-quality ingredients. But it’s not just about the food—it’s about how the food makes you feel. We create moments around meals, fostering connection, celebration, and community.

What makes us different:

Personalized Touch: We don’t do “cookie-cutter” catering. Each event and menu is customized to fit the client’s vision, dietary needs, and preferences, whether that’s traditional Southern comfort food or innovative, contemporary dishes.
Deep Family Roots in Cooking: My culinary journey has been shaped by my Southern roots, family traditions, and experiences in the kitchen with my loved ones. That history infuses every dish we create.

Community-Focused: We believe in giving back and connecting with our community. Whether it’s catering events for local schools, nonprofit fundraisers, or Houston’s finest, we take pride in serving our community and supporting the people who make it special.

Attention to Detail: From the food presentation to the service, everything is executed to perfection. We’re meticulous about how we showcase our dishes, ensuring that your event is not only delicious but also visually stunning.
Relationship-Driven: We build lasting relationships with our clients, treating them like family. It’s not just about one event—it’s about the trust, loyalty, and connection we foster over time.

The Problems We Solve for Our Clients

Our clients come to us with a variety of needs, but the most common problems we solve are:

Time Constraints: Whether it’s a busy professional needing help with a corporate event or a bride planning her wedding, we take the burden of catering off their plate, allowing them to focus on enjoying the process.
Quality and Taste: Clients who want high-quality, delicious food that goes beyond the ordinary. We pride ourselves on making food that’s flavorful, fresh, and unforgettable.

Personalization: When people have dietary restrictions, cultural preferences, or a specific vision for their event, we step in and offer personalized menu designs that align with their needs and taste.

Impressing Guests: Whether it’s a corporate event or a wedding, we help our clients create a memorable, wow-worthy experience for their guests through food, service, and presentation.

As an entrepreneur, I’ve had the privilege of watching Supreme Eats Houston grow from humble beginnings into a catering business that serves some of Houston’s most prominent events. But what I’m most proud of is not just the business’s growth—it’s the relationships I’ve built with my clients and the positive impact I’ve been able to make in my community.

When I started out, it was never just about the food—it was about connecting with people. I’ve always believed that food is a way to bring people together, to create moments of joy and connection, and that’s been my mission from day one. The feedback I’ve received from clients has been overwhelmingly positive, but what stands out most to me are the smiles on people’s faces. That’s what makes all the hard work worth it. The way food has the ability to bring people together, to break down barriers, and to create lasting memories is something I’m endlessly grateful for.

At the heart of my business are the relationships I’ve built with clients. I’m not just serving a meal—I’m serving an experience. It’s incredibly humbling to know that the meals we provide are a part of some of the most important moments in people’s lives, whether it’s a birthday, a retirement party, a corporate event, or a community gathering. The trust people place in Supreme Eats Houston to cater to these events is something I never take for granted.

One of the things that fills me with the most pride is the way our brand has grown organically. It’s not just through marketing or advertising—it’s through the relationships we’ve built and the lasting impressions we’ve made. Word of mouth has been a powerful tool for us, and the fact that our clients continue to recommend us speaks volumes about the quality of our work and the trust they place in us.

I’m especially proud to serve the local heroes of our community, like the Houston Police Officers, elected officials, and everyday community members. Serving these individuals fills me with a deep sense of purpose. It’s an honor to cater for events that bring together people who work tirelessly to make Houston a better place, and it humbles me to be able to contribute to those moments.

One of the most rewarding experiences has been working with the African American Police Officers League (AAPOL). What started as one event has grown into a wonderful partnership that I’m proud to continue. Knowing that I get to serve and support the people who protect and serve our city is something I will always cherish. It’s also incredibly meaningful to see how our business has become part of the fabric of the community in such a genuine way.

A Special Honor: Catering for The Diana Foundation
Another moment that stands out for me is the opportunity to cater for The Diana Foundation, the oldest LGBTQ+ community organization in Houston. This was not just another event—it was personal. As someone who deeply values inclusivity and community, being able to serve such an important group was an honor. The foundation’s commitment to advocacy, support, and visibility within the LGBTQ+ community is something I greatly admire, and being part of their celebration was a privilege I will carry with me.

Looking back, the growth of Supreme Eats Houston has been nothing short of humbling. From its roots in small-scale meal prepping to now catering large events for some of Houston’s most influential groups, it’s been an incredible journey. But what makes this growth even more rewarding is that it’s been built on a foundation of trust, hard work, and community connection.

Starting out, I never imagined the business would grow to this level. What began as a small, local meal prep business has now evolved into a catering company that serves hundreds of people at major events. But the essence of the business has never changed. We remain focused on what matters most: providing delicious, high-quality food that brings people together and leaves a lasting impression.

As I continue to grow Supreme Eats Houston, I remain deeply committed to the values that have shaped the business from the beginning. The work we do is not just about feeding people—it’s about connecting them, celebrating their moments, and serving our community. Every time I see the joy our food brings, every time I get positive feedback, and every time we have the privilege of catering for an important event, I’m reminded why I started this business in the first place.

What I’m most proud of is the community I’ve built, both with my team and with my clients. The connections we’ve formed are what truly set Supreme Eats Houston apart, and I’m excited for what the future holds as we continue to serve Houston with heart, passion, and the best food in town.

When you work with Supreme Eats Houston, you’re not just hiring a catering service—you’re gaining a partner in creating an unforgettable experience. We are all about quality—quality food, quality service, and a quality experience from start to finish. We focus on the details, ensuring that every dish is not only delicious but visually stunning and that every moment of your event goes smoothly.

What I want potential clients to know is that we don’t just cook—we create memories. From the first bite to the last, we aim to leave an impression that lasts long after the event is over. We’re committed to making sure you feel like family, because, at the end of the day, that’s exactly how we see you.

Whether you’re planning a wedding, a corporate event, or a family gathering, you can trust that we’ll treat your event with the care and attention it deserves. Our goal is to always surpass your expectations, offering you not only delicious food but an experience you’ll never forget. We’re constantly learning and growing, and I look forward to continuing this journey with our amazing clients and community.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

As a business owner, I’ve learned that success isn’t just about executing well-thought-out strategies or mastering the latest trends—it’s about personal growth, self-awareness, and a continuous willingness to evolve. Along my entrepreneurial journey, several books, essays, and podcasts have profoundly shaped my philosophy and approach to business. These resources have not only helped me become a better leader but also a more grounded, self-aware individual, capable of handling the ups and downs of the entrepreneurial path.

The Power of Self-Care and Vulnerability: Too Heavy a Yoke by Chanequa Walker-Barnes
One of the most transformative books I’ve encountered in recent years is Too Heavy a Yoke: Black Women and The Burden of Strength by Chanequa Walker-Barnes. This book challenged everything I thought I knew about strength and resilience, particularly as a Black woman in business. For so long, I believed that being strong meant carrying the weight of everything on my shoulders, without complaint. I was conditioned to push through personal challenges and hardships with a smile, because as the “Strong Black Woman,” I was expected to endure, even at the expense of my own health and well-being.

Walker-Barnes, however, explores how this social construct of the “Strong Black Woman” is not only unrealistic but deeply damaging. She argues that the expectation that Black women should remain strong and uncomplaining, no matter the cost, is an illusion. This book allowed me to see how my own need to constantly prove my strength had taken a toll on my emotional and physical health. It encouraged me to ask for help, to embrace vulnerability, and to understand that I don’t have to carry the world on my shoulders to be valued or to succeed.

Reading Too Heavy a Yoke was a turning point for me. It helped me understand that being “strong” doesn’t mean being invincible. I realized I didn’t need to be Superwoman. I needed to be a human being—one who could feel her feelings, acknowledge her limits, and, most importantly, prioritize self-care. This shift in perspective has been essential as I continue to grow both as a person and as a business owner. Now, I’m more intentional about asking for help when I need it and recognizing that my well-being is just as important as the success of my business.

Focusing on What Matters: The One Thing by Gary Keller
Another pivotal resource for me was The One Thing by Gary Keller. My business coach recommended this book, and I can’t even begin to describe how much it has shaped my approach to business. In a world where it’s so easy to get distracted by countless tasks and obligations, The One Thing encourages a laser-focused approach: Identify the one thing that will have the greatest impact on your business and focus on that, above all else.

This simple yet powerful concept has had a profound impact on my productivity and decision-making. Before reading The One Thing, I found myself juggling multiple priorities at once, constantly switching from one task to another without ever feeling like I was making significant progress. But the book taught me to stop spreading myself too thin and to focus on what truly moves the needle. By identifying my one thing—the most important action or goal that will push my business forward—I was able to refine my strategy and eliminate the noise that wasn’t serving my larger vision.

The clarity I gained from this book has been invaluable. Now, I approach every day with purpose, asking myself, “What is the one thing I can do today that will make the biggest difference for my business?” It’s helped me become more strategic, more intentional, and ultimately, more successful.

Podcasts That Inspire and Motivate
In addition to books, I’ve found that podcasts are an incredible resource for staying motivated, learning new things, and expanding my mindset. They’re like a constant source of inspiration, especially on days when I need a boost or want to hear new perspectives on business and life.

One of my favorite podcasts is Coach Pain, which provides deep insights into the mental and emotional aspects of entrepreneurship. I’ve learned how to build resilience and maintain focus even during challenging times. Another podcast I enjoy is The School of Greatness by Lewis Howes, where successful entrepreneurs, athletes, and influencers share their journeys and lessons learned. I find it incredibly motivating to hear their stories and learn from their experiences.

Additionally, I listen to Motivation Daily, a podcast that delivers bite-sized, powerful messages of encouragement and empowerment. Sometimes, you just need that little push to keep going, and this podcast is perfect for that. Lastly, Elevation Church with Steven Furtick is a spiritual resource that helps me stay grounded in my purpose. Pastor Steven’s messages remind me that business isn’t just about profit—it’s about fulfilling a higher calling and staying aligned with your values.

These podcasts help me stay inspired and continue learning. They provide the motivation I need to keep going, no matter what challenges I face in my business. In many ways, they’ve become part of my daily routine, helping me stay focused, positive, and driven.

Together, these resources have had a powerful influence on my entrepreneurial philosophy. They’ve taught me the importance of self-care, the power of focusing on the most important tasks, and the value of continuous learning and growth. As I continue to build Supreme Eats Houston, I’m constantly reminded that success doesn’t come from just the tactical skills of running a business. It also comes from taking care of myself, cultivating the right mindset, and building relationships with mentors and peers who can support me.

In particular, these resources have allowed me to maintain a healthy work-life balance—something that is often difficult to achieve in the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship. I’ve learned that I don’t have to do it all on my own, and that asking for help and focusing on the most impactful tasks can lead to greater success, both personally and professionally.

Looking back, I realize that these resources—whether books, podcasts, or essays—have provided me with invaluable tools to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. They’ve helped me shift my mindset from one of relentless independence to one that embraces collaboration, balance, and purpose. As I continue on this journey, I will keep revisiting these lessons, knowing that growth is not a destination, but an ongoing process. And with each step, I am more equipped to serve my clients, community, and myself with intention and heart.

Any advice for managing a team?

When it comes to managing a team and maintaining a positive, high-energy atmosphere, I’ve learned that authenticity, humility, and open communication are the keys to building a strong, motivated, and cohesive team. Here’s my advice based on my own experience:

1. Be Real and Humble
One of the most important things I’ve learned is to always be authentic with my team. I never try to act like I have all the answers or that I’m somehow above them. I’m not just the boss—I’m a team member too. I make it a point to show them that I am just as committed to the work as they are, and I’m constantly learning along the way.

Being real means admitting mistakes, acknowledging your own growth areas, and showing vulnerability when needed. This creates a culture where everyone feels safe to do the same, and it fosters a sense of trust. When your team sees you’re human—just like them—it helps them feel valued and understood. And that leads to better morale and a more connected, motivated team.

2. Ask for Input and Opinions
One of the best ways to keep morale high is to ask for input and value the opinions of everyone on your team. I don’t ever make big decisions without consulting my team first, especially if it’s something that will impact their work or the overall culture. Everyone has something valuable to contribute, and when people feel heard, they’re much more invested in the success of the company.

In my experience, collaboration is key. I often ask team members for their thoughts on new initiatives, menu ideas, or event logistics. It shows that their perspective matters and gives them a sense of ownership over the company’s direction. When people feel like their contributions are shaping the future of the business, it boosts their engagement and morale.

3. Lead with Kindness and Empathy
Running a business can be stressful, and the pressure can sometimes feel overwhelming, but no matter the challenges, I always try to lead with kindness and empathy. I want my team to feel like they can come to me with anything—whether it’s a work-related issue or something personal. Creating an open, supportive environment where people feel comfortable talking about their struggles, ideas, or concerns helps to create a positive culture.

Empathy is crucial in understanding where your team members are coming from and supporting them not just as employees, but as human beings. If someone is struggling or having a tough day, I make sure to offer my support in any way I can. This creates an atmosphere of compassion, and when people feel like they’re genuinely cared for, they’re more likely to stay motivated and loyal to the company.

4. Treat Your Team Like Family
One of the things I’m most proud of is the sense of family we’ve created at Supreme Eats Houston. I treat my team like family, and I think that’s what sets us apart. We celebrate wins together, whether it’s a successful event or a small milestone. We also support each other through the tough times.

When you treat your team like family, they become more than just employees—they become invested partners in your success. This sense of belonging and camaraderie fosters a strong sense of loyalty and motivation. People don’t just show up for the paycheck—they show up because they want to contribute to something they care about and because they know they’re part of something bigger than themselves.

5. Recognize and Appreciate Your Team
Acknowledging the hard work and dedication of your team is vital for maintaining morale. Simple gestures like saying thank you, providing positive feedback, and celebrating achievements—whether big or small—go a long way. People need to feel appreciated for their contributions, and recognition is one of the easiest ways to make them feel valued.

I try to make it a point to regularly thank my team, whether it’s for going above and beyond during an event or for handling tough situations with grace. Recognition doesn’t always have to come in the form of a monetary reward—it can be as simple as a heartfelt thank-you, a shout-out in a meeting, or even a small token of appreciation. These moments of recognition boost morale and reinforce the idea that everyone’s effort matters.

Managing a team and maintaining high morale isn’t about being a perfect leader—it’s about being real, respectful, and humble. By treating your team like family, valuing their input, and leading with kindness and empathy, you create a positive, supportive work environment where everyone feels motivated and connected to the company’s success. Authenticity, open communication, and recognition are all fundamental to building a team that is not only capable but also deeply invested in the mission of the business.

In my experience, when you lead from a place of care, respect, and collaboration, you inspire your team to do their best work, and in turn, that drives the success of the business as a whole.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.supreme-eats.info
• Instagram: Supreme_Eats_Houston
• Facebook: Supreme_Eats_Houston