Today we’d like to introduce you to Jayda Robertson.
Hi Jayda, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up in a very small town named Twin City, GA. At a young age, I knew I was different in a lot of ways. Growing up in the south was difficult. Cooking served as a safe place for me; It helped me escape from the teasing and judgmental words that I faced on a daily. When I was sad, I cooked. When I was happy, I cooked. Cooking literally saved my life. I’m 2010; Paula Dean had a Christmas cooking special on the FoodNetwork and it was amazing to see someone care about feeding the ones they loved as much as I did. After a lot of trial and error, I realized and said to myself – “ You’re good at this” I graduated High School in 2015; I was accepted into The Art Institute of Atlanta where I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Culinary Arts Management.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. Definitely some bumps and curves along the way. My biggest struggle was dealing with being alone; I had never been so far away from my parents and loved ones so that distance took a toll on me & my studies. There were multiple times I felt like I wasn’t good enough to make it to the finish line. I had never had someone tell me my food wasn’t good; so it was hard to take that criticism. I also faced a lot of backlash because I take pride in my appearance; So being told you can’t be pretty and in the kitchen made no sense to me cause I was doing it with ease. Along the way, things got easier and I found my way and I graduated in June of 2019 with my degree.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
That’s a great question! What do I do? The more fitting question is, What can’t I do? I do small catering events, Brunches, and private dinners. I’m classically trained in French cooking techniques. I specialize in Southern Comfort food. I am known for my Mac and Cheese, HANDS DOWN! What sets me apart from others is my knowledge of food; I like to call myself a Food Expert. My most proudest moment would be when I landed a spot on Netflix’s Best Leftovers Ever where I appeared on Episode 2- Game Day Gourmet. That’s my biggest accomplishment to date.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was the life of the party! You needed the Girls to dance, No problem. Despite my sexual orientation then, I didn’t allow that to become me. I pride myself on being kind because it’s what’s needed in the world today. All I ever wanted was kindness because it costs nothing to give someone a smile. You never know how your actions can affect the people around you. Cooking was always my number one interest but fashion and beauty peeked my interest as well. My personality has been coined as graceful, mature, and loving.
Contact Info:
- Email: jaymonroeebooking@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nygcooks/
- Youtube: https://youtu.be/SJ1iDe0hPh4
Image Credits
Credits – Nigel Robertson
