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

Hi Lauren, we’d love to start by asking you about lessons learned. Is there a lesson you can share with us?
The most important lesson my business has taught me is to never take anything personally. Every experience, good or challenging, is an opportunity to learn and grow. I’ve come to understand that people’s decisions reflect their needs, not my value. Staying grounded in that mindset has helped me focus on providing great service, staying confident, and showing up with joy and purpose.

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.
My work is all about creating thoughtful, nourishing meals that bring comfort, connection, and joy. As a private chef and meal prep specialist, I focus on fresh, flavorful food tailored to individual needs, whether that’s allergy-conscious options, busy families, or athletes with specific goals. What sets me apart is the care and intention behind every bite. This isn’t just cooking, it’s a reflection of tradition, creativity, and love.

Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy. I started with passion and very little else. There were moments of self-doubt, and long nights wondering if it would all come together. But I kept going because I believed in the value of what I was offering. I stayed grounded in my purpose, leaned on faith, and let each challenge sharpen my skills and strengthen my commitment.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that success isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being consistent, humble, and open to growth. I want the world to know that my story is rooted in legacy. My late grandmother planted this seed, and I’ve worked hard to nurture it into something meaningful. My brand is about more than food. it’s about intention, healing, and heart.

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.
Day 1: Welcome to Town
• Brunch at Lucy’s on the Square for classic Southern comfort food.
• Stroll through Downtown Celina to explore local shops and boutiques. 

Day 2: Wine & Dine
• Visit Eden Hill Winery & Vineyard for a relaxing afternoon of wine tasting.
• Dinner at The Forge 1912, a family-owned restaurant with Texas favorites. 

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures
• Explore Frontier Park in Prosper for walking trails and open spaces.
• Evening at The Gin, enjoying live music and a vibrant atmosphere. 

Day 4: Culinary Delights
• Lunch at Tender Smokehouse for authentic Texas BBQ.
• Dinner at Heyday, offering a modern twist on classic dishes.  

Day 5: Shopping & Relaxation
• Shop at The Gates of Prosper, featuring a variety of stores and dining options.
• Relax at Windsong Ranch Lagoon, a beautiful spot for unwinding.

Day 6: Local Events
• Attend a local event or festival in Prosper or Celina to experience community spirit.
• Dinner at The Nook CKMC, a cozy spot with eclectic comfort food. 

Day 7: Farewell Brunch
• Brunch at Toasted Walnut Table and Market to savor the final moments.
• Take a leisurely walk through Cedar Grove Park before departure. 

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My late grandmother planted the seed for everything I do today. Her love for food, her strength, and the way she served others laid the foundation for my passion and purpose. She taught me that cooking is more than just a skill, it’s a way to connect, to care, and to create lasting memories. She is the root of it all, and her spirit lives on in every dish I make.

Website: https://DinnerwithLG.com

Instagram: DinnerwithLG

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.