For years, I've been a go-to cook for our large family gatherings—Mother's Day, Father's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Resurrection Sunday, birthdays, graduations—you name it, and I've cooked for it. I've also raised and fed three energetic boys, which meant that fast food was not a viable option. Thankfully, I've always had a passion for cooking. As a little girl, I learned a lot from watching my Aunt in the kitchen. She taught me so much of what I know today.
My entrepreneurial spirit comes from my dad, who built the first successful African American sanitation business in Clarksville, Tennessee from the ground up. He wasn't just about lifting cans and throwing away waste; he also uplifted people, showing them they mattered. My mom taught me the importance of sharing love with your children, family, and everyone God places in your path.
Cooking brings me peace and joy. My mom used to love when I grilled, and seeing her smile as she enjoyed my food was priceless. Despite cooking for so many years, I never thought of turning it into a business. My three sons, especially Antwuan, kept telling me, “Momma, you need to make this a business.” They've been my motivation from the start, and their encouragement and support mean the world to me.
The passing of my mom in 2020, and my sons growing into young men and leading their own lives, prompted a period of transition followed by financial adjustments. With the cost of living rising, I needed additional sources of income. Psalm 1:3 says that when we meditate on the Word day and night, we will be like a tree planted by rivers of water, bringing forth fruit in its season. Water nourishes growth, and if my gifts and talents are nurtured by these "rivers," they WILL bear fruit.
One Sunday, while contemplating my next steps, I listened to a guest preacher at Change Church. He spoke about the widow woman and emphasized that everything you need is already in your house and that God has already equipped you. This message struck a chord with me. When I looked in my pantry, I realized I had all the ingredients to start my new venture; I just needed to mix the batter and start cooking!
This is the inspiration behind Ms. B’s Sauce & More. It is a journey fueled by passion, family support, and faith, transforming my love for cooking into a business.