We had the good fortune of connecting with Brittany Rudolph-Lee and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Brittany, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I was born in Atlanta but raised in Folkston, Georgia, just 30 minutes from Jacksonville, Florida. My mother worked in different restaurants and the local hospital as a dietary manager while my aunts and older cousins worked in the kitchens of popular restaurants in the area. Growing up, I was surrounded by food and always felt comfortable in the kitchen. My passion for food began early on, as I saw how it brought my family together no matter the occasion. When I received a play kitchen for Christmas at a young age, it sparked the beginning of my culinary journey.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My creativity as a child eventually led me to discover my passion for the art of food. Despite facing obstacles and discouragement even from my own father along the way, I never gave up on my dream of becoming a Chef. After having to leave culinary school do to finding out I was pregnant with my oldest daughter,becoming a certified nursing assistant and feeling stuck in a routine that made me unhappy, I made the decision to pursue my love for food once again. Enrolling in the culinary management program at FSCJ in 2020 was a turning point for me, and I am proud to say that I will graduate this May with my culinary management degree. The child that was the reason for me leaving culinary school will get to witness me attain the degree that people said I wouldnt. I am determined to show my daughters and others that no matter the challenges they face, their dreams are within reach. My brand is a testament to the hard work and dedication I have put in, and I strive to offer a unique dining experience that not only fuels the body but also feeds the soul.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Firstly I would take them to locals dockside in st Mary’s Georgia, in my opinion this is the best restaurant in town. Driftwood beach is a gorgeous hidden beach in Georgia where my husband and I got married so I would definitely take them there. Because I live in such a small town I frequent Jacksonville FL quite often! So the cummer museum would definitely be in the itinerary, there is a sunset cruise avaliable downtown that gives beautiful views. The downtown nightlife is awesome some of my favorite places are Hoptinger Bier Garden & Sausage House, Daq Shack they have some of the best frozen drink around. Waters sports are also popular jet skis and boat rides are some of my favorite activities in my free time.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate my shout out to my grandmother’s WillieMae Doyle and Virginia Campbell, my mother Shirley Kercheval and my bonus moms Shaunte Campbell & Gail Straws-Pasley these ladies all had a personal hand in supporting me & making me who I am today.
Website: https://enlightenedsoul.square.site/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enlightened_soul_catering?igsh=ODN4eHVoczVjYmFj
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/me?trk=p_mwlite_search_people-secondary_nav
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Enlightendsoul1?mibextid=ZbWKwL