Meet Trailblazer Marcy Meier Braselton

Today we’d like to introduce you to Marcy Meier Braselton.

Marcy Meier, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Eating and cooking has always brought joy to my life. I find being in the kitchen therapeutic. The catalyst for what was to become Community Kitchen was actually our move to London in 2001. I stopped working full-time, had my first child and really started pursuing my passion for food and healthy living. Over the past 17 years, I’ve created a lifestyle for my family that includes making (mostly) healthy choices, staying active and supporting our local community/food sources. I created Community Kitchen to share what I’m making, creating and supporting with others. My goal is to make healthy eating accessible, attainable and, most of all, ENJOYABLE for busy people and families. I like to keep things simple. My recipes are not complicated and do not include any crazy, rare ingredients. Everything is family-friendly and I use fresh, nutrient-rich, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I’ll be honest, it’s not always easy! For better or worse, I work out of my home, which is extremely convenient, but also full of distractions. Maintaining a work/life/family balance can definitely be challenging. For me, it’s about finding that balance that is achievable and sustainable. I try to do something active every day whether it’s playing tennis, practicing yoga or taking the dog for a long walk. Exercise keeps me sane and it’s important to make time for yourself. My career is my passion so I’m very lucky in that regard. My advice to others… follow your passion; create a support system of women who are smart, honest and willing to give you constructive feedback; building your brand and business takes time, patience and lots of hard work – it doesn’t happen overnight; don’t be afraid to take risks and make mistakes.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Community Kitchen Atl – what should we know?
My kitchen is the center of my universe, literally. It is the space in my life where my family and friends gravitate. In short, it’s my very happy place. I love to eat. I love to cook. And the idea behind starting my business, Community Kitchen Atl, was to share the recipes I was developing and enjoying with a broader audience. I specialize in recipes that include fresh, nutrient-rich ingredients and I buy local whenever possible. I partner with brands to create original content that showcases their products in an authentic and creative way. I also teach cooking classes and demonstrations for several local businesses.

I am first and foremost a foodie and, as a brand, I am so proud of the fact that I have helped others feel less intimidated about being in the kitchen and given them meal options/ideas that are simple + wholesome, not complicated + time consuming. I truly appreciate all of the kind words and feedback I get on daily basis.

Do you feel like there was something about the experiences you had growing up that played an outsized role in setting you up for success later in life?
My father was in the military so my family relocated quite a bit while I was growing up. I lived in eight different states before I turned 18. And, I still have a serious case of wanderlust! I strongly feel that being exposed to so many different cultures, regions, foods and people during those formative years has shaped who I am today. I adapt easily to new situations; I’m scrappy; I love any and ALL types of food; And, I realized long ago, that “home” can be anywhere in this world, as long as you are surrounded by those you love.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.communitykitchenatl.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @communitykitchenatl
• Facebook: Community Kitchen

Image Credit:
Kim Busby Photography

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