Latoya Lawrence, originally from Grenada, Mississippi, brings a taste of Southern charm to the vibrant city of Denton, Texas. From her roots in Grenada to the flourishing food scene of Denton, Latoya's culinary adventure is a story of passion and perseverance. As the proud owner of a thriving food trailer Groovy Chicken and Waffles and T's Table Catering Services, she has transformed her love for cooking and baking into thriving businesses.
Photo by Juniper Saint Butcher
How did you come up with your business concept? What inspired you to start your own business?
The concept of my business was based on my seasoning blend and the purchase of a small 6x10 cargo trailer. My original thought when I purchased my empty 6x10 cargo trailer, was to open a mobile soul food business. I quickly found out that the space wouldn’t allow me to handle that much product in the space provided. After many prayers and tears, I realized I had the right size trailer to serve cuisines of choice. I have a seasoning blend that allows me to serve up fried chicken wings and chicken breast. Let's not forget about the waffles that are so good you can taste the sweetness without the syrup.
What’s your background? Could you tell us how each of these disciplines emerge in your work?
My background has been in carpentry, soul food restaurant, fast food, caregiver, and upper management in food service. The combination of my background disciplines me in getting up in the morning, motivating myself, giving my best to each opportunity, and patience for others and myself.
What led you to take Groovy Chicken & Waffles from an idea to pursuing it as a business?
My motivation came from purchasing a cargo trailer but not knowing the concept at first. I was so motivated to own a business that showcased my love and passion for culinary. I wanted the name and concept to be fun and colorful. When most people think of Groovy, they think of dancing or the bright colors that are associated with the word.
How did you find your way into the culinary industry?
I have been a part of Culinary and Hospitality since I was 15 years old as an assistant cook for a local soul food café.
What’s your favorite thing about your workspace?
Stoke's shared workspace has given me the space I needed for focus. Being in the space with another business owner in the mindset of perfecting their craft is addicting. The space offers a quiet, welcoming, and resourceful place to work. The biggest bonus for me is having 24/7 access.
Do you have a personal and/or professional motto or mantra that you call upon during tough times? What is it and what does it mean to you?
A woman of FAITH is a woman of POWER. I’m a woman of God and it means I believe and stand on his word when my emotions or circumstances are unstable.
How do you pick back up on it when perhaps feeling uninspired?
When feeling uninspired I go to social media and find people who currently have the concept restaurant that I aspire to have one day. This helps me to know that they too started somewhere lower than they are in their business today.
What have you gained so far from being a part of the AccelerateHER cohort?
Being a part of the AccelerateHER cohort has given me the extra confidence I’ve needed. I’m amongst a great group of women establishing our value, getting direction, and helping to streamline our goals and vision in our business. Being a part of this program we’re able to grow in our local market by better understanding our business and finances.
Name a woman, past or present, whom you admire or look up to. Why?
My grandmother was the person I looked up to. My Culinary Superhero was named Addie Lawrence, a lady who lived most of her life with one functional hand. There was nothing this lady didn’t do and knew how to do. My grandmother was able to care for vegetables and animals and was an incredible cook/baker with the things we were able to grow or purchase from other families that grew their food.