We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Natasha “Chef Preddie Waller . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Natasha “Chef Preddie below.
Natasha “Chef Preddie , appreciate you joining us today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?
PreddieCooks,LLC was created as a way for me LIVE. In 2017, I fell into a deep depression that led me to harming myself. For months I did not want to do anything but sit in a dark room. One day I was able to get the courage to seek help and find a way to fix my pain. A former boss told me to do something that made me happy. So I got a tattoo on my arm that says ‘Yes Chef’ with a hat & knife. I sold my very first meal under the name ‘Plates by Preddie’. In 2020, we started highlighting mental health in our communities. As a brand, we strive in teaching ways to ensure a healthy mental as well as preparing exquisite meals. From their the name grew into PreddieCooks, LLC.
PreddieCooks,LLC currently is a Hospitality Management company that focuses on Private Dining and Event Planning. We aim to create Preddie’memorable experiences through food and events.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I was born in Bladensburg, Maryland or (Hyattsville) depending on how you looked at it. I attended Bladensburg Elementary, William Wirt Middle, and Bladensburg High before going off to obtain my Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management in 2016. Growing up, I thought I wanted to be a children’s book author and a basketball player. By the ninth grade, those ideas went out the window. My freshman year I had a Food & Nutrition class led by Chef Muriel Homesack. She is the reason I am in this business today. I learned so much in this class that I applied for our Culinary program my junior year. Under her leadership I was able to compete in a Regional Wide competition that landed me a full tuition scholarship, my senior year. I studied in New York for three years to gain my bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management and Associates in Culinary Arts. A wonderful experience. My greatest memory of college was studying abroad in Italy for three months. I learned so much from various parts. Upon returning home to Maryland I started working at Gaylord National Resort where my culinary journey continued. Once covid happened, I was forced to be a full time Entrepreneur and I have not looked back since. I have hosted a plethora of events in the DMV area. As a caterer and private chef I have traveled up and down the East Coast providing services. What sets me apart from others is the fact that a few years ago I would have ended my life but I found a way, through food, to live again. Every client becomes family. To see their smiles brings so much joy to my heart.
For those inquiring to work with me, please reach out to an experience of a life time
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
I had to pivot in my career during Covid. The year 2020-2022 was a very challenging time for me personally and business wise. I went from working a full time job with full time hours to depending on my own creativity to make sure my bills were paid. A challenging time but my pivot was amazing. I started a picnic business at the end of 2020 that generated great income. In 2021, I plan alot of events, some successful and others not so much. Every event was a learning experience. In 2022, I took a class that taught me fundamentals of being a Private Chef and from there I have not looked back. I thank the pandemic for making me a stronger entrepreneur
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
I have been in business for Five years. In five years I have been scammed by a Party Promoter, a Business Consultant, graphic designers, clients from google, friends and more. Every situation took a lot out of me mentally because I worked hard for everything I had and people took money from me as if it was ok. Loosing money hindered me from trusting a lot of people. I had to learn discernment and knowing who to trust. Because of all of these situations, my security is tight. I do research on everything and everyone before starting partnerships. I never stop trying to make my brand better.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.PreddieCooks.co
- Instagram: Www.instagram.com/preddiecooksllc.2
- Facebook: Preddiecooks