Meet Annie Greenslade

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

Hi Annie, let’s talk legacy – what do you want yours to be?
I wish for my legacy to be one of love, service, and connection within the community. Through The Sweet Life Chef, I’ve had the honor of being a part of the most meaningful moments in people’s lives—baby’s first birthdays, surprise proposals, anniversaries, birthdays, weddings, and the fine dining experiences. These aren’t just events, they are life moments in the making, and to be trusted with them is something I am truly honored to share.

I want people to remember that I didn’t just cook meals or bake desserts or cakes, I created experiences and lifelong memories. I brought care, intention, and heart into every detail, turning it into something magical. I saw my clients as family and treated their milestones with the same love I would give my own. At the end of the day, I want to be remembered as someone who showed up with grace, professionalism, and genuine joy—someone who nourished others not just with food, but with kindness, creativity, and a work of art. I hope my legacy is woven into the laughter shared around a table and the beauty of a life well-celebrated.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
The Sweet Life Chef is a culmination of my life’s experiences, passions, and dedication to the culinary and pastry arts. As a degreed Culinary Chef, I offer private chef services in DFW, specializing in creating exquisite meals, beverages, desserts, and cakes tailored to each client’s unique tastes and events.

I have had the privilege of teaching Pastry Arts, Advanced Cake Decorating, Culinary Arts, Food and Nutrition, Food Safety, and International Cuisine within colleges. I have also taught middle school and high school culinary arts.

Throughout my career, I have been honored with several accolades, including being named Texas Pastry Chef of the Year in 2020 and competing at the national level through the American Culinary Federation, taking 3rd place. I was recognized as a Celebrity Chef at the State Fair of Texas for multiple years and contribute to various charitable events and organizations within the community.

What truly distinguishes The Sweet Life Chef is the elevated yet heartfelt experience I custom create for every client. From intimate plated dinners, one on one cooking lessons, cooking lesson parties, vibrant mixology parties, and custom dessert installations; every event is designed to feel personal, intentional, and unforgettable.

I have learned that entrepreneurship is about evolving while staying grounded in your values. It is showing up consistently, treating clients like family, and never compromising on quality or care. At its heart, The Sweet Life Chef is more than a business—it’s an invitation to slow down, gather, celebrate, and savor the sweet life, one bite at a time.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Dallas for a week, I would design an experience that honors our 27-year friendship—a bond rooted in mutual respect, communication, loyalty, and growth. David Coppinger has been a steadfast friend and an essential part of my and my daughter’s life. His wisdom, integrity, and unwavering support have shaped the person I am today. I would want his time in Dallas to be both meaningful and memorable.

Day 1 – A Warm Welcome

We would begin with a welcome dinner in my home with mutual friends and my daughter, featuring a thoughtfully prepared chef’s tasting menu inspired by flavors from around the world. It would be an evening for good conversation and gratitude, setting the tone for an epic week.

Day 2 – Art and Inspiration

Our day would start by visits to the Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center. For lunch, we would visit Dive Coastal Cuisine by Les Dame Chef Franscesa Nor. In the evening, we would enjoy dinner at Tatsu Dallas, a Michelin starred restaurant known for its elegant Edomae sushi omakase and impeccable service.

Day 3 – Culinary Exploration

We would explore farmers’ markets in the morning, sampling local goods and supporting artisans. That evening, we would dine at Parigi, a restaurant by Les Dame Chef Janice Provost, that serves exceptional French-American cuisine.

Day 4 – Time by the Water

Given David’s love of boating and the water, we would spend a relaxing day at White Rock Lake, renting a boat and enjoying a curated picnic by the lakeside. Then we would visit the Dallas Arboretum and take in all the beautiful blooms and foliage. For dinner, we would visit the Italian restaurant Radici, by world renowned Chef Tiffany Derry, who is also a Les Dame.

Day 5 – Local Charm and Delight

We would spend the day exploring the Bishop Arts District, browsing unique shops and galleries, and tasting small bites from various eateries, including Dude, Sweet Chocolate by Chef Katherine Clapner. Dinner would be at Asian Mint, a restaurant by Les Dame Chef Nikky Phinyawatana, which serves the best Thai food in Texas.

Day 6 – Art and Culture in Fort Worth

We would travel to Fort Worth to visit the Modern Art Museum and the Fort Worth Botanical Gardens to celebrate our love of nature. On our return, we would have dinner at Bistecca by Chef Morris Salerno, an Italian Steakhouse by a culinarian Olympic winner.

Day 7 – A Thoughtful Farewell

To conclude the week, I would host a farewell brunch with more of our friends, featuring my favorite dishes. It would be a time to reflect on our long-standing friendship, share stories, and celebrate our many years of support and growth.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have been incredibly blessed with many amazing people who have molded me and shaped the person I am today. I proudly served in the United States Army and am a combat veteran. My military background gave me the resilience and relentless drive that fuel everything I do today. After living in a combat zone, I carry a deep gratitude for even the smallest things in life. The friendships I formed with my fellow soldiers are lifelong.

Throughout my culinary career, I have had the privilege of working alongside many talented chefs who have mentored, challenged, and encouraged me. Among them, the late Chef Michelle Brown stands out as an extraordinary influence. She was not only a gifted culinary leader and teacher, but also a friend whose legacy continues to live on in my work. A piece of my heart left this planet with her, but her example of knowledge, generosity, and excellence remains a guiding force in my life. Chef Michelle Brown was a proud member of Les Dames d’Escoffier International, a prestigious philanthropic organization of female leaders in the culinary, hospitality, and beverage industries—of which I am also a member. To be part of this esteemed sisterhood is a profound honor. I am continually inspired by the strength, wisdom, and commitment to community that these women embody.

I am extremely grateful for my one and only daughter. She has taught me the meaning of life and helps me to grow and become a better person daily. The loving person she has become, as an independent adult, has made me very proud of her.

I carry the lessons, love, and encouragement of all these individuals with me each day—in my kitchen, in my business, and in the way I serve others. I am eternally grateful.

Website: https://sweetlifechef.com

Instagram: @thesweetlifechef

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anniegreenslade

Facebook: https://facebook.com/thesweetlifechefannie

Image Credits
Lisa Stewart (linkedin.com/in/lisa-stewart-a600ab68)