Today we’d like to introduce you to Shonah Jefferson.
Hi Shonah, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I began my culinary career at the tender age of 11 – by helping my dad at his local Houston restaurant. After spending many years in business and as a practicing attorney, I returned to my culinary roots by managing the family restaurant for a few years while obtaining a degree in Culinary Arts from San Jacinto College.
I have always had an interest in giving back to others because “to whom much is given, much is required.” I purchased a Chefs For Seniors franchise in 2018 as an opportunity to “do well by doing good” and to combine my love of people, business, and the culinary arts. I now have a team of talented chefs who serve the seniors of the greater Houston Metro Areas. I also continue to practice a little law as “my side gig.”
I attended The University of Texas at Austin, where I received a B.B.A. in Finance and a B.A. in Plan II Honors Liberal Arts. I also have a law degree from Georgia State University College of Law.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There have definitely been some struggles along the way. Six months after I purchased my Chefs For Seniors franchise, my father died by suicide, and then the pandemic hit 8 months later. Half of my clients canceled their services because they, understandably, did not want anyone in their homes.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Chefs For Seniors – North and Southeast Houston Metro is a first-of-its-kind meal service in the Houston area that connects seniors with chefs who prepare high-quality, affordable, and nutritious meals in the comfort of their homes. The company’s local professional chefs prepare affordable meals for the week using the freshest ingredients while offering a fun interactive experience in the client’s home. Clients select four dishes from a regional menu which can be customized to the client’s dietary preferences and needs. Chefs For Seniors is an affordable option for seniors who may want fresh home-cooked meals but who may be physically unable to cook the meals for themselves or who are tired of cooking for themselves. Our mission is to improve seniors’ lives through food!
Since opening in November 2018, Chefs For Seniors – North and Southeast Houston Metro has performed 0ver 3200 services in our clients’ homes.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the COVID-19 crisis?
Small businesses have to be creative and adaptable in order to stay in business and remain relevant in the marketplace. I hesitate to use the word “pivot” because it was used ubiquitously during the pandemic; however, it is true that being able to pivot and persevere during the pandemic helped me to weather the storm.
Pricing:
- Pricing ranges from $155 to $195 for the service plus groceries.
Contact Info:
