Meet Derricka Clayton | Private Chef & Caterer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Derricka Clayton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Derricka, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
I believe in taking care of my clients they way they take care of me. In most industries now days, customer service is just simply not what it used to be. Some employees lack manners, common courtesy or simply come off as nonchalant or rude. This can be frustrating when you are paying for a product/service and the customer service outside of it is lackluster. I feel that though I am operating a business, that its good to think of the needs of each of my clients and if there is a way I can go above and beyond for them within my power, I will do so. I always advise my own employees that building relationships with your network and clientele holds more weight than the profit, as you can always get it back, plus your clients will remember how you treated them and took care of them and now you have established a customer for life!!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
From a small Dallas based urban food blog, “Tha Dope Foodie”, I have evolved as a Private Chef/Food Service Contributor. With the blog, my goal was to provide consumers my recommendations, reviews, and experiences of local restaurants and new places to go eat. However, little did everyone know my passion for food went deeper than experiencing someone else’s vision of food… I had one of my own.
I used cooking as a form of expression and continued to study and perfect my craft. For years I wouldn’t cook for people as I was too shy, but as I continued to acquire more friends and co-workers, cooking for them was my way of showing love.​
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In January 2019, I experienced tragedy where my ex-husband/co-parent of my autistic daughter passed away unexpectedly. Then 2 weeks after that, I lost my job. I was in the darkest mental space in my life, just very depressed, not sure what was in store for my new normal. I prayed over my entire situation and asked God for guidance. Shortly thereafter, I have stepped out on faith to share my passion, “My vision of food…” with fellow food lovers who enjoy quality “dope” mealz​.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My favorite places are Hugo Invatados, Kessler Park, Miriam Cocina, as well as local wineries and distilleries. I love to go swimming and traveling different cities

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My dedication goes to my circle, my tribe of family and friends who keep me encouraged. Entrepreneurship can have its challenges and can sometimes negatively impact your focus when business is slow or when things simply don’t go your way. It’s so important to have people around you who want nothing but the best for you and will help you do things in order to reach your goals and dreams.

Website: www.chefderricka.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/chefderricka

Twitter: www.twitter.com/chefderricka

Facebook: www.facebook.com/chefderricka

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCD_MxV2VXJ7A9bZVfgEE4RQ

Image Credits
Marques Hulet @cp_photos