Today we’d like to introduce you to Chef Curtis McCann.
Hi Chef Curtis; we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My professional journey began in November 2018. I launched my catering company, “Catered By Curtis,” by hosting a tasting for a sold-out crowd of 125. I sold tickets at 10.00, so I barely broke even, but I walked away with many new clients. The success of the tasting allowed me to cater for Parallon, The Hoffman Brothers, Justine Petersen, MissonSTL, Williams & Associates Inc., and Webster University. I had no idea the road ahead would lead me to open my restaurant, “Juanita’s Creole Soul Cafe,” before I launched my catering company; I served as a Food Supervisor for the Hilton and General Manager for Aldi. I always said I would never own a business because running someone else’s was hard enough, but life had other plans.
You wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been smooth?
It has been a journey of ups and downs but blessings and lessons. One of the biggest challenges was learning how to run a business on the fly. I am the first entrepreneur in my family, so I didn’t have anyone to show me the ropes or mentor me. Other business owners were busy with their work, so I had to learn on the fly how to finance, market, staff, and execute and brand myself while still showing up for myself in life!
As you know, we’re big fans of My business, Juanita’s / Merch314. For our readers who might need to become more familiar, what can you tell them about the brand?
I am the owner of Juanita’s Creole Soul Cafe. We resume operation as a ghost kitchen concept on May 20th as a catering company, and @Merch.314 is a St Louis-inspired brand of hoodies, t-shirts, and stylish hats. I am mostly known for my take on creole cuisine, with my most popular item being the Voodoo Pasta that has led to the creation of the Voodoo Fried Rice, my Red Curry Chicken, and all of my from-scratch sauces. Brand-wise, I am proud of my organic growth and consistency through trials! What sets me apart from others is my genuine love and admiration for Saint Louis and the people and business owners who make the city whole. My merchandise brand and menu items, such as St Louis Style Gumbo and Gooey Butter Cake, are symbols of that! We launch the youtube series “Cutting up with Chef Curtis” in March 2023.
Networking and finding a mentor can positively impact one’s life and career. Any advice?
The thing that has worked the most for me in networking has been just showing up for others, not being afraid to go and greet someone and shake hands because you never know the connection you need could also need you.
Pricing:
- Shirts 30.00
- Hoodies $40.00
- Beanies $15.00
- Catering Range 14-21 per head
Contact Info:
- Website: www.juanitas314.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hehimcurtis/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hehimcurtis
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/hehimcurtis
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/Curtrell90
Image Credits:
Chrystopher Willis
