We had the good fortune of connecting with Gerald & Shanika Wesley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gerald & Shanika, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Our thought process when we started our business was that we were already married for twenty years, already making our seasoning blends for twenty years. So, we made the decision to launch what we had already been so passionate about as our company. Gerald is known for his robust BBQ grilling herbs, in the smoke pit. Meanwhile; Shanika is recognized for her rich aroma holiday spices in the kitchen, along with her lasagna and other wonderful meals that she prepares. Family and friends had been telling us for years to create our own line of seasonings , which became the beginning of their famous “Gerald & Shanika’s”- Atlanta Bayou Seasoning.

Which is “crafted from handpicked, sun-dried spices, and full-bodied herbs which are the heirlooms of Afro-American sharecroppers that are grown in the mineral rich clay of Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas, Tennessee, Texas, Florida, and Kentucky. A subtle blend of coveted aroma whispers in southern kitchens throughout the black southern culture. Encapsulating the authenticity, taste, and nostalgia somewhere between the “Sunday after church with family. To the backwoods, dirt roads, Juke Joints, Blues circuits, and Sweet Bayou’s infused with modern day Atlanta.”

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
On our journey to building our company, we decided to have fun and enjoy the process. The things that set us apart from other companies is that we love to put a personal touch on our company, by building a great rapport with our customers. We enjoy answering the emails and phone calls, it’s like we’re speaking to a good friend or family member.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Atlanta is such a fun place to visit, and there’s so much to see. I would start with this place called The Works, Truist Park is nice, you have the outdoor bars and places to eat. The W-Hotel have  roof-top, where they serve food and drinks. In the summertime they offer a luxury pool with a wet bar, and cabana to relax after a cool down from the Hotlanta summer heat.

The night life in Atlanta is very vibrant from Red Door Tavern, Red Phone Booth, Big Sky, Whiskey Blue, and let’s not forget about all of the festivals that Atlanta have to offer.
If you would like to take to take a short road trip, head to Savannah or to walk the beach of Tybee Island and enjoy some fun in the sun.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
We would like to Shoutout our Mentors Chevalo & Monique Wilsondebriano they are the Owners of Charleston Gourmet Burger. They’re a Super awesome couple that we love, admire, and respect.

We would like to Shoutout my Mother Ada Lindsey who started her Fit 4 Me Adult Day Care and she has been diligently caring for each and everyone of her clients with so much love and patience. We love her beyond Eternity.

We would like to Shoutout Antonia Williams for designing our website and always helping our vision come to life. She is such a hard working young lady.

Website: www.atlbayou.com

Instagram: atlbayou

Facebook: Gerald & Shanika’s- Atl Bayou Seasoning

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