Today we’d like to introduce you to Orneary Conley. They and their team shared their story with us below:
Like a glimmering spark that ignites an inferno, Mrs. O’s love for cooking began in humble beginnings. In her tender years, age 8, as she prepared meals for her siblings, she discovered the magic of culinary arts. Her passion continued to blossom as she honed her skills at church as a volunteer part of the cooking department, where she crafted soulful creations that would later enchant the palates of many.
As a renowned traveling chef, event caterer, and tour caterer, Mrs. O has symbolized excellence in her field. Born and raised in Chicago, this culinary magician has been happily married for seven years and blessed with a blended family of six children. Her culinary venture, founded in 2011, has gained recognition for celebrity and entertainment catering services, catering to musical legends such as Mary-Mary, Fred Hammond, Stephanie Mills, Johnny Gill, Atlantic Star, and more. She has also catered to famous comedians such as the late John Witherspoon, Mike Epps, and Katt Williams, showcasing her expertise in the culinary world.
Mrs. O’s culinary achievements are not limited to her exquisite dishes. She has been featured on Kare 11 News, In The Sun Newspaper, MN Spokesman Recorder, and Voyage Magazine for her exceptional contributions to the industry. She has also partnered with significant non-profits and Fortune 500 companies, showcasing her culinary prowess to various audiences. In 2022, Mrs. O’s restaurant and catering business was named the Family Business of the Year by Black Business Enterprise, and in 2023, Sun Post awarded her catering business the prestigious “Best Caterer” Award. Many have enjoyed her culinary creations, and she takes pride in her award-winning dishes. In 2024, Mrs. O’s first E-book, “Soulfood Playbook – Win-Win Recipes for Any Given Sunday,” will be released in the second quarter, paired with her Soulful Creations seasonings line. With her expertise and passion for culinary art, Mrs. O is confident that she can make any event unforgettable, whether a formal business event or a personal celebration. Her dishes are tailored to meet specific needs, and she looks forward to bringing her soulful creations to the world.
Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
Pursuing her passion, which she believes is part of God’s plan for her life, has not always been easy. Starting a business as a single mother of four with little to no money but with big faith was a leap she never thought she would be bold enough to take. This leap caused many restless nights, as money was scarce. Being a small, black-owned, woman-owned business was not a fad, and there were few monetary resources available to someone who had not existed for at least two years. It was the hardest yet easiest thing she had ever done in her lifetime. Things got better when she planted her feet in the corporate arena and became a corporate caterer; those early contracts sustained her.
Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a caterer, restaurant owner, celebrity caterer, travel chef, and author. I specialize in recreating a homemade experience in a commercial environment. Traditional-style southern cuisine is the staple of my business, but I have recently been creating more vegan and vegetarian options. I am most known for catering to celebrities and being a tour caterer for entertainers, comedians, and singers when they visit our state. I pride myself on being the go-to caterer for their food needs in the Twin Cities. In February 2024, I will take my talent on the road, partnering with the “We Them Ones Comedy Tour” in 28 cities over three months. I am most proud of knowing that thousands, likely 50,000 plus people, have eaten my food over the years, and 95% love it. This is a significant accomplishment for one chef. I am set apart by knowing that this is my chosen path, so I know I can’t fail.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
“People may be surprised to know that I am very social. Although I may come across as serious, I have a silly side. I love to laugh, but I don’t enjoy simple jokes. And contrary to what it may seem, I care about how people perceive me and my brand.”
Contact Info:
- Website: www.realcookskitchen.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rck_soulfood/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RCKSoulFood/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orneary-conley-1731a964/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/MzPuritee
