Meet Rolando Cantrell of Cantrell Occasions in South Fulton

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chef Rolando Cantrell.

Rolando, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I originally attended Savannah State University where I received my undergraduate degree.  While in college, I often cooked for my roommates and friends as a hobby and something I enjoyed doing.  A few years after graduation, I was still indecisive as to what I wanted to obtain my Master’s degree in. I have always had a passion for cooking but was only accustomed to preparing “soul food.” I  wanted to learn more about different cuisines and seasonings so I enrolled into Art Institute of Atlanta originally for the certificate program.

However, after a few months, I decided to stay the course and after a few years obtained my degree in Culinary Arts. Shortly after, I joined the National personal and private chef association. I then began doing private dinners for couples. In the beginning, I charged really low prices in an effort to “win” clients and to show them that I had what it took. At first, I would only get a few bookings throughout the year, but as years progressed that turned into multiple bookings per month and private dinners for two turned into larger events for 50-100ppl. I have had a lot of support from family, friends, coworkers who believed in me and encouraged me.  Becoming a Chef was never my dream but it has become a reality and I’m loving it.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road.  I started the business in 2012 all while working in corporate America. It was tough trying to do both at the same time. There were times where I would shop early mornings before work, on lunch breaks or late nights after work. After working in corporate America for ten years, I decided to take a leap of faith and became a full-time Chef & entrepreneur.  Things soon became even more difficult.  I became really lonely and depressed.  I no longer had coworkers by my side to engage with throughout the day.  Everyone was now at work while I’m out delivering business cards, flyers, and trying to promote business.  It also became scary not knowing how and if everything would work out. Funds became scarce. I was afraid whether I had made the right decision.  The road has been tough but the reward of it all has been greater.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Cantrell Occasions – what should we know?
I am Chef and the owner of Cantrell Occasions.  We provide private/personal chef and catering services for all events. Our goal is to always provide great food and superior service. As a company, I am most proud of the relationships that we have built with our clients. Our clients have truly become like family. What sets us apart from others is that we strive really hard to make each client’s experience a pleasant and memorable one.

Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I think that my humbleness, drive, customer service, and my faith in God is most important to my success.

Contact Info:

• Website: Cantrelloccasions.com
• Phone: 404-682-5031
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iam_chefro
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamchefro/

Image Credit:
Traces of Fiji Inc

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