Today we’d like to introduce you to Randi Easily.
Hi Randi, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My name is Randi Easily, I am 30 years old. In my younger years I attended over 10 different schools before graduating for Phyllis Wheatley High School in 2011. When I was 12 years old, my middle sister was murdered by her best friend and an accomplice. The accomplice was never caught, but the main offender is serving life with the chance of parole. This tragedy happened on my mother’s birthday and ultimately changed our lives forever. We experienced poverty and at one point did not have our own place to call home. We had to live with others for quite some time. I often had to cook for myself, or I would sit in the kitchen and watch my mother cook. My father was sentenced to 99 years in jail for drug trafficking when I was in the 3rd grade. My mom raised my two sisters and I as a single parent. She made the most of her situation as best as she could. In school I got in trouble a lot for being defiant. Having to constantly switch schools and make new friends really took a toll on me. Eventually I was suspended, and my mother had enough. She sent me to Cal Farleys boys Ranch, a boarding school located outside of Amarillo, Texas. I was opened to a new perspective and ultimately moved back home to finish off my senior year. I began cooking for friends on a small scale. When I attended Lamar University, I would make breakfast or dinner for house parties. Eventually I started selling seafood baked potatoes and bowls of gumbo. Everyone on campus came out to support. I was blown away and I realized this was my passion. Providing quality food and services.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road has not been easy. As I mentioned, my life has been full of obstacles. Growing up in poverty, my father was incarcerated so I did not have a father figure, my sister was murdered, my mother was dealing with her trauma, so I learned to be independent, I started working in the 7th grade at Reliant Stadium scooping ice cream and making funnel cakes. I can remember being told by teachers I wouldn’t make it in life if I didn’t change my attitude, that really stuck with me.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Made and Sautéed Eatery?
I specialize in private catering, event catering including parties/weddings. I am known for hosting social tastings where individuals can come and taste my food with live interactive cooking. My southern hospitality and unique menu sets me apart from others. Not only do I provide delicious meals, I create an experience. I am so proud to have taken my brand public and being able to serve others. I actually did a private catering for Bad Boys star Anthony off of Zeus Network. I want the readers to know I have worked really hard to get to where I am. Although I went to college and obtained a degree, cooking is my passion. I want the readers to know I am available for bookings. I have cookbook coming out in August. I have a tasting this weekend February 4, 2023. Anyone booking a wedding can receive $500 off if booked by April 30th.
I created The Grateful Giveaway back in 2020. For the past 2 years I have provided less fortunate individuals with meals and backpacks with survival supplies the Giveaway has been awesome and I am so happy to continue the tradition.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up I was very independent. I’ve always been a people persona and I get along with everyone I come in contact with. When I was younger, I would always try to cook. I remember getting in trouble for setting the kitchen on fire as I was trying to cook noodles. I was involved in track, cheerleading, dance, art, DECA, debate. I graduated number 12 in my class. I graduated from Lamar university with a psychology degree and minor in criminal justice. I attended 10 different school and to this day I still have relationships with individuals from my childhood. After losing my sister I found myself self-sabotaging relationships if I felt that person was going to harm me. As I grew older, I realized the importance of maintaining healthy friendships and relationships.
Image Credits
Aaron Perrault
