Meet Jasmyne Raines of JRaiCafe

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jasmyne Raines.

Hi Jasmyne, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
During the height of the pandemic, a purpose was revealed to me. It was actually rather forced through me, that may be a better word. I was able to create and open my business, JRaiCafe, in July 2020. Let’s take it back, shall we? As I was being cousin/sister/mom/therapist/chef/whatever hat fit that day to my two favorite girls, Armoni and Maggie, the kitchen became our creative space. One afternoon, in 2016, we were preparing brunch. To be honest, it was more like I was preparing while they waited to be served.

This particular day they asked me, “What are you serving today in your restaurant?” I replied, “If I was ever blessed with a restaurant, I would call it JRaiCafe.” The girls loved it! From that moment on when I stepped into the kitchen, they would say “JRaiCafe.” Of course I did not know what was being manifested right before me.

Fast forward, I was on leave from work due to the pandemic. The world was moving too fast and too slow simultaneously. I had to find a calm to maintain the calm within me. Remixing recipes on Pinterest, creating recipes of my own, and preparing meals became my peace.

I posted my meals on Instagram faithfully. One of my good friends asked me to be her personal chef and prepare her one meal, each week. She believed in me so much that she wouldn’t take no for an answer. Hence the word: forced. Haha! I was too afraid to put myself out there. I was guilty of betting on everyone else but myself. I prayed hard on this. I released those limiting beliefs that were choking my confidence and self-worth. Everything I needed was within me. Love was within me. Food and love pair perfectly together. “JRaiCafe, it starts within” was open for business and ready to serve.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
To be transparent, my biggest challenge is staying consistent with my business. Cooking, making videos, posting on social media, choosing a menu, and just staying relevant are areas improvement is needed.

My belief is that cooking is an energy exchange – what goes into your food will be felt by those eating it. I know exactly what I put in my food, lots of flavor, herbs, and my heart. If I do not feel it or if my spirit is heavy, I will not cook. I enjoy reading my reviews that state things like “I can literally taste the love you put in this food!” I’ve had so many experiences with food being season-less and loveless and that drives me to make everything I serve- mindfully made.

I dance while I cook because it keeps my spirit light and intentions pure. I am set apart from fast food chains and other restaurants because I CARE about how my food makes one feel. I am all about love. Of course you have your moments that you have to push through and get it done. There are also moments where it’s important to be still and reflect on the what and why. I am serving because God put it in my heart. I’m a one woman show, so everything begins and ends with me.

It’s all a challenge really because you’re constantly wondering about the longevity of your small business. Ideally, you want it to flow exactly how you plan but at the same time, you have to be realistic. I’m a natural giver. Setting prices and sticking to them without doubt has been a constant battle with my business. I am so grateful for all of the support I’ve received over the past year. Presently, I work full-time, I’m a business owner, and I’m constantly creating more projects to bless the world. Finding time to balance all of this good in my life and sleep are small miracles happening now.

As you know, we’re big fans of JRaiCafe. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
JRaiCafe was established to provide great vibes, great energy, and great food. Each meal is made with love in light, enriched with organic ingredients and handmade sauces. JRaiCafe caters and meal preps. Eating is a self-love ritual. It should honor and nourish your body. With me, cooking starts in meditation. I pray over the food before I begin to prep and cook. The meals are always pre blessed. It all starts within.

The vegan Mac and cheese has been my pride and joy. It is literally deliciously REAL! Haha. There have been so many events where people did not know they were eating vegan Mac and cheese. Speaking love into everything I touch, Mac and cheese bowls by JRai will thrive. Who doesn’t like Mac and cheese? You choose your base: vegan Mac or regular Mac. You choose your toppings: protein, vegetables, sauces, make it yours. Love is in each bite.

Another JRaiCafe original that I am so proud of is the sweet potato donut. It’s a fun-sized, soft, moist, impeccable, sweet treat. We always see pumpkin everything during fall and winter. Dare to be different they say. Although sweet potato pie is a classic, there is something about these donuts that will make my grandmother smile.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
Little Jasmyne enjoyed school and books! I laugh now about my mom having to force me to go to bed when I was hiding under my blanket with my head in a book. I could really get lost in a story. Who knew I would grow up to write my own?! Stay tuned. I have so much more to give. Childhood memories are countless and most cherished. I loved listening to my great grandmother, we called her T baby, tell stories. She had all of the pictures dated in too many photo albums to count. Her house was the favorite for sure. Going outside playing hopscotch during the summer in the streets of St. Louis earned us some good ol’ frozen custard from Ted Drewes. Double Dutch was the most fun! Singing the classic rhymes, competing, doing tricks, laughing, being fearless, it was pure bliss. As a child, we just do. We don’t overthink. There’s no room for doubt. Your heart is pure in love from how you interact with people to the activities that make you smile big. As adults, it’s important to do things to keep our spirits light. We have to nurture, love, and keep that inner child alive. What brings you back to that happy kid? For me, it’s random dance parties in my house, going to the park to swing with the girls, Armoni and Maggie, and jump roping. I may bring Double Dutch back with my friends!

Contact Info:

• Email: Jraicafe@gmail.com
• Instagram: Instagram.com/JRaiCafe

Image Credits:
Shanice Danielle Photography