When Chellise Rogers found herself redundant from her job at Flow, she faced an uncertain future. Unwilling to work for others again, she seized the opportunity to follow her passion for cooking, transforming it into a thriving business.
Chellz Kitchen, born from a suggestion by a supportive friend, quickly became a beloved culinary venture celebrated for its authentic Caribbean flavors and personal touch.Raised in Simon (New Prospect) and growing up in Biabou, Rogers attended New Prospect Infant School and Biabou Methodist Primary before moving on to North Union Secondary and SVG Technical College, where she studied Hospitality and Tourism Management. Raised by her grandmother and aunties while her mother sailed, Rogers developed a strong sense of independence and resilience.”The decision to start my own business was driven by a desire to be my own boss and create something meaningful,” Rogers explained.
“A friend encouraged me to try cooking, knowing I had the skills and connections. That’s how Chellz Kitchen began.”Chellz Kitchen officially opened its doors on September 25, 2020, offering personal chef services and catering for events of all sizes. Despite initial challenges, such as transporting lunches from Biabou to Kingstown, Rogers’ commitment to her craft and her customers never wavered.
“The distance was tough, but my customers were understanding and supportive,” she said.Rogers acknowledges the role of her strong support system in her success, especially in raising her son.
“I’ve always had a village to help where I couldn’t, ensuring my son was well taken care of,” she said.Reflecting on her entrepreneurial journey, Rogers wishes she had invested more in equipment early on. “I started it as a hobby that paid the bills, but I wasn’t sure how long it would last.
I tend to try new things frequently,” she admitted.The highlights of her journey include the praise from customers, the excitement of her first major catering gig, and the flexibility of working on her terms. A particularly memorable moment was cooking for Justin Bieber and Kendall Jenner on Mustique Island, a testament to her hard work and dedication.
For Rogers, good customer relationships are the cornerstone of being a successful entrepreneur. “Treat your customers like family and strive to meet their needs. It’s about more than just profit—it’s about delivering the best experience,” she emphasized.Rogers advises aspiring entrepreneurs to start with a plan, set clear goals, and test their products with trusted individuals. “Scared money doesn’t make money. Be bold and take that first step,” she urged.Looking ahead, Rogers envisions Chellz Kitchen expanding beyond St. Vincent to become a renowned name across the Caribbean.
“In the next five years, I see myself traveling, cooking, and building a network that makes Chellz Kitchen a go-to for events,” she said.Chellz Kitchen remains committed to cooking with fresh ingredients and offering authentic Caribbean cuisine. For inquiries, contact 593-0400, email [email protected], or follow @chellzkitchen on Instagram.
