Today we’d like to introduce you to Wanda Clark.
Hi Wanda, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Ever since I can remember, I have always loved being in the kitchen. The sounds, the emotions, and oh the aroma! I have enjoyed the experience of food since I was a child. Some of my fondest childhood memories take place in the kitchen, preparing meals first with my mother. Cooking quickly became my therapy. There were a few other things that I wanted to be when I grew up. It wasn’t until I was 16 with my first job in the service industry, that I quickly realized my intense love and passion for food and service. Unable to attend formal culinary school, I needed a plan. I worked for serval years at various local restaurants, learning the ins and outs of the service industry.
At 25, I was hired at the Ritz Carlton as an in-room dining attendant, but made friends fast with seasoned chefs. I shared my passion of food with them and the kitchen became my home, so graciously soaking up all of the knowledge they so willingly shared. After many years of building my craft, the circumstances and effects of Covid, presented an opportunity for me to open my own establishment. Besides always wanting to be a wife and mother, I knew that I wanted to serve my community great food. I love to see people enjoy and indulge in all of the things that I create. Tucked away in downtown Kingsland, you’ll find Wandaful Things Bakery & Bistro. This is my happy place. The place that allows me to do all the things that I love and share it with everyone.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
God bless the broken road. It has definitely not been a smooth ride. There are always challenges starting a new business, especially during recent times and not knowing what the future will hold for the economy. Throughout the years, I’ve had other businesses that closed for various reasons and lost jobs due to Covid. On this journey, we’ve had some minor challenges. No one can prepare you for the mental warfare, which I think can be one of the biggest challenges. I am a firm believer in “everything happens for a reason”. So, in spite of all struggles, I’ve learned so much more about business, my craft, and myself.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
We provide handmade desserts and delicacies daily. Specialty services including catering, private chef, custom cakes and desserts. If we had to pick one thing, I would say that we are most known for our Smack N Cheese. The recipe is my mother’s. It’s kinda like regular Mac n cheese, but with more cheese, more cream and it could cause smacking.
What sets us apart? Unique, Quality, Fresh ingredients, Great customer service, and our food has flare. We take pride in what we do.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Oh wow! There are so many! My family, friends (old and new), so much support and encouragement from the community. I literally never imagined that the support would be so great. I am only me, but with all these amazing people in my corner, it makes all the difference. You can’t be successful alone.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/wandafulthingsco
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wandafulthingsco/
Image Credits
K.mareephotography
