We had the good fortune of connecting with Chimelle Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Chimelle, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
My roots are planted about four hours away. I am from Savannah, the oldest city in Georgia. I grew up in a family centered household and neighborhood. I’m from the era where “it takes a village to raise a child”. I grew up with both of my parents. I have three sisters but my extended family is rather large so their wasn’t a shortage on cousins for me to play with. The presence of both of my maternal and paternal family has guided my steps. I must say that my grandmother’s were the real MVP’s. Both of them brought a different perspective to what it means to being resilient, God fearing and multi-fascinated. Margaert worked as a Housekeeper, raised nine children with my granddad and made it to Greater Owen’s Temple Baptist Church every Sunday. Lessie B was a house wife, she made sure my homework was complete before I went outside to play and she would be standing on the front porch calling my name to come inside before the street lights came on. I’m also proud to say that I am the last of the analogue generation so my family oriented infrastructure combined with my “ol-school” upbringing are in the forefront of my decision making .
Two major jewels that were a daily mantra in my home was “if a man will not work, he shall not eat” and “in this world all you have is God and your word”. A great work ethic has always been displayed by my parents and grandparents. I guess it’s safe to say that the apple don’t fall too far from the tree because six days after my sixteenth birthday I started my first job and I have been working ever since. I also take pride in being reliable and fulfilling my commitments, I’ve had so many dependable people in my life so reciprocating the same favor is the very least that I can do. I sense that my upbringing has grounded me and allows me to appreciate the simple things of life.
What should our readers know about your business?
Sweet Canvas Treats specialize is occasion and event treats. My menu consist of handcrafted candybars, chocolate covered berries/cookies, lollipops, mini dessert shooters and candy apples just to name a few. I strive to create a memorable experience for all of my customers from start to finish. I am a firm believer that details are key and every order should have a personal component to it. I am most excited about the up and coming additions to the Sweet Canvas Treats brand. I will be adding party rental pieces, treat table styling and party favors such as chip bags, cotton candy and fruit snacks. We will also offer Brunch and cocktail table catering.
Sweet Canvas Treats was born from a DIY treat table for my son’s 4th birthday party. Preparing for Seth party was so therapeutic and joyous, I didn’t want to let that feeling go. Being that I am self-taught everything is trail and error so somethings come easy while other things takes a little bit more time to grasp. Practice makes better is a true statement and I get better one dip, one order at a time. I’ve learned that you must be patient with yourself, anything worth having is worth waiting and praying on. I plan on Sweet Canvas Treats being a household name and I not only want my customers to remember how their treats taste, I want them to remember the feeling they experienced.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I believe in having an holistic experience. I would start our festivities on the Beltline, the variety of eateries and beautiful sensory will set the tone for the festivities. My friends definitely enjoy shopping so a trip to Phipps Plaza, Little Five Points and Atlantic Station should cover all basis. My girls are very lively so riding adult big wheels would be right up their alley. We are not opposed to a good turn-up so starting our evening at Blu Cantina for cocktails and karaoke, then off to TEN Atl to listen to some R&B music. “On Sunday We Brunch” and the chicken and waffles at Breakfast at Barnies is a must have. After brunch a trip to Jeju should have my girls relaxed and ready to hit the road.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to thank my son, Seth Gray for being my daily motivation and hype man. I would also like to recognize everyone that has prayed for my entrepreneurial success, patronized and supported my business.
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Image Credits
JHolley Photography