We had the good fortune of connecting with Dana “O.G. Kitch” Barlow and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dana “O.G. Kitch”, was there something or someone who had an outsized impact on your career?
My Granny, Anna Cardwell, had the biggest influence on my career. It all started back in the day, in her kitchen, where she guided my hands, and nurtured my budding desire to cook. I learned more from her than any other time in my career, be it education or on the job. The most profound lesson that I learned from Granny is to always put my heart into everything I make–cooking is Love! The biggest influence on my business is my daughter, and namesake of my business, Zanobia. She was born way too early, and only survived a few moments of life. This was the worst loss of my life, and to keep her memory alive and honor my love for her, I have dedicated my business to her. Knowing that my Angel is in Heaven cheering me on, has the greatest influence on my success.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My company offers personal chef and catering services, including: dinner parties for two or more; making and refrigerating/freezing meals that clients can reheat whenever; and providing a broad spectrum of foods for events & festivals, large and small. We are known for our ecclectic offerings, however the authentic Cheesesteaks and Ginger Mint Iced Tea are very popular among our regulars. What makes me most proud is our repeat clients, as well as the people they refer us to–It makes me most proud knowing that I have put smiles on faces, and satisfied people’s palates! The road has been relatively smooth, with pearls of excellence being shared by those who have traveled this path. I want the world to know how passionate I am about food and elevating it my own way!

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
Simply put, I would make sure that they get the best eatz at Zanobia’s BabyCakez!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I met the late, great Leah Chase for the first time while a student at Chef John Folse Culinary Institute (at Nicholls State University), and her words and Spirit inspired me unlike any other! I am eternally grateful to you, Chef Chase! George Koslow & Randy Cheramie, who were two of my instructors at Nicholls State, helped me to hone my skills and were great mentors as well. I would also like to send a special Shoutout to Damian & Cheryl Banks of Beauchamp’s Social Gatherings in New Orleans for the business pearls, and sharing valuable information with me to keep me on the right path for success, and to avoid making the same mistakes that they made.

Website: www.zanobiasbabycakez.com
Instagram: zanobiasbabycakezllc
Facebook: Dana Ogkitch Barlow
Youtube: www.YouTube.com/c/KitchenEverything

Image Credits
Chante’ Henderson

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