We had the good fortune of connecting with Deborah Tuff and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Deborah, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
Allowing them to see me vulnerable. Showing them that it’s okay to show emotion when things are going great, good or not-so-great. In my opinion that is true legacy. Because it’ll show them how to be empathetic to others, show sympathy and role with the punches.

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?
D’Lishes Dishes by Deb isn’t just a catering business – it’s an entire experience. And that’s the lesson I learned watching my mom, aunts and grandmothers in the kitchen. It wasn’t just about sitting down and eating the amazing food they prepared. It was about the love, time and attention they put into each dish – while multitasking family needs and other endeavors. For me, I look to their examples in motherhood and multitasking! As a mom of three small kids (5, 2 and a newborn), I definitely have my work cut out for me. It’s worth it because my brand is going to be my family’s legacy. That’s why I started two YouTube series, “Quarantine Cookin’” and “Quarantine Cookin’: Kid’s Edition”. These vignettes allow me to spend time with my kids and hone my craft, while making D’Lishes Dishes and multitasking!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
As the saying goes, “You don’t know where you’re going unless you know where you’re coming from”. Atlanta has a rich history planted in the Civil Right’s Movement and has a rich natural habitat. So my answers are based on activities pre-Covid. For starters, a tour of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.‘s childhood home, the MLK National Park and Ebenezer Baptist Church (where he preached and worshipped) would top the list. Followed by the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum and the Center for Civil and Human Rights (I love a museum!). Stone Mountain Park would also be along the route (to either climb or walk around). Atlanta is also the musical Capitol of the South! Our talent is endless. With that said, the Trap Museum is a must. Also, let’s just say this is around the end of May, I’d definitely take my bff to the Jazz Fest at Piedmont Park – and then we’d hop over for a quick wave and IG Post at the entrance of Tyler Perry Studios. Food-wise, wings are the thing here in the A. An Atlanta staple. I would definitely take my bff to get some lemon pepper wings, fried fish and french fries at any wing shop or trailer. Also on the agenda, Busy Bee’s Cafe and Eats. Two of my faves! And if we’re feeling artsy, Little Five Points is definitely a vibe! Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many I would love to shoutout! First, God. He’s the one I lean on at ALL times. And my family plays a huge part in my success. As my company continues to grow, they’ll watch the kids (which has to be done so I can create), taste test recipes that pop up and shout me out with their support! I would really love to give my sis, Dr. Raegan Tuff a major shout. As a public health expert and children’s book author she possesses the creativity and business sense to offer me sound advice that is always a home run. Oh and her book is titled, “I Am Sure Of This Fact,” amazing read for little girls!

Website: www.DLishesDishes.com

Instagram: @dlishesdishes

Twitter: @dlishesdishes

Youtube: https://bit.ly/2PEIy8a

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