Meet Charlicia Harper | Private Chef & Caterer

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

Hi Charlicia, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
I am very big on “paying it forward.” I know that along my journey I have always had resources that assisted in whatever I needed. People always showed up for me. Therefore, with my business I regularly cook for the unhoused in Dallas, as well as provide essentials for daily living. It is very important to me to give back, and always ensure I keep a humble heart and kind spirit.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I have been a youth Counselor working with 16-24 year old at risk, or “troubled” youth, for the last 9 years. The individuals I mentor and provide guidance to are typically mentally ill, victims of sexual crimes, products of irresponsible parents, foreigners, juvenile delinquents, etc. Thus, being able to service them and direct their lives in a more positive direction fulfills me. Seeing the excitement on their face and grief off their shoulders when able to express themselves, and be free from the barriers of society, drives me. I take great pride in impacting the next generation in a positive manner. At times it can be difficult as I am a growing, learning, human being as well. However, whatever I have experienced, whatever I do know, however I can help; I do. My upbringing, story, nor life is perfect, but I do know I maintain a pure heart, humble spirit, and outstanding character.

While working with the youth I discovered my passion for cooking while interacting with our culinary classes. Therefore, I started cooking at home, and feeding friends. This turned into being asked to “cater” one of my friend’s birthdays. It was a hit. From that day on I started putting together a business plan, going over my mission, creating marketing material, and getting in the kitchen. People really liked my presentation and attention to detail. The more caterings i did, the better I got with plating, tablescaping, engaging the customers, clean up, and even contracting. I learned early on that maintaining proper insurance, as well as having proper documentation is important. I am a person of integrity and I want my personal and business relationships, as well as work to display that.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If I were taking my best friend around Dallas for a week I would definitely start with a dinner at Elephant East. Great photo ops, nice classy vibe, and the food is amazing. If we’re going out at night, I’m more of a lounge person than club, so I’d take them to lovelady lounge or double d’s and relax, listen to music, have some drinks. I would also likely visit a hookah lounge like Zodiac or Saaya. Brunch spots we’re going to are Kiss or Local Tap & Table. Chill vibes, great music, nice drinks. Southern Classic will always be a stop for daiquiris and New Orleans vibes.

We are definitely going places like Puttery, movies, 2 bit circuits and fun interactive things. I’m like a roller skating, bowling, go kart kind of lady. I enjoy having fun.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The Lord has been THE contributor in my success. The moments when business is slow, times life has been on top of me, circumstances that made me scared to fully step into my purpose; the Lord always made a way. He showed me that this is for me. I have a gift, and a passion for it. So I feel it’s my duty to live out what He has called me to do. In the full capacity, to the best of my ability.

Website: Www.cethechef.com

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