Meet Isaac Lashawn Ricks, MBA | Chef, Author and Business Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Isaac Lashawn Ricks, MBA and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Isaac Lashawn, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
When I think about my career I’d honestly have to say it chose me. I’ve always been a creative, naturally. At a young age I fell in love with the arts, music, theater, performance, poetry and culinary. There is such a freedom and blessing in being able to express your most vulnerable yet truest self through creativity. The human soul immediately relates to creativity and falls in love with the authenticity of such.

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?
There are several businesses under the ItsRicks Incorporation. The one that is most vigorous currently is ItsRicks Catering LLC. As a private chef and caterer I travel both domestically and internationally to provide a special experience like no other, ranging from private dinners for two, to major corporate events, special engagements, family gatherings and more. I’ve found that bringing the creative of the culinary arts to my clients in only the way I can, has proven to liberate my creativity more and more while building a bond and creating an experience that leaves my clients wanting more. Having lost my biological mother to domestic violence when I was only six months old and only learning of her only after the death of who I knew as my mother (my Grandmother Laura Christopher) my entire life I’ve learned to go further the distance with everything I do. I find peace in cooking and greater joy when I’m able to share my creative cuisines with others. Apparently it tastes good. My personal testimony of how I’ve overcome rape, being molested, stuck up at gun point and depression is what I’ve found to be my strength and ultimately what pushes me to keep going. It’s been a battle starting my own business, overcoming homelessness and heartbreak. Through it all I’ve been blessed to meet people and connect with so many genuine souls that have inspired, encouraged and supported my gift.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Being a new resident of Atlanta whenever my best friend is in town it’s always an adventure for the both of us. We love exploring restaurants as we are both foodies.

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 would not be who I am today if I had not had the support and encouragement of my siblings. My older sister Tiffany Moore is not only my sister but my biggest support and best friend. I have to shout out my older brother Javonne Ricks who, challenges my creative side to go further and is always right by my side whenever I call. I have to also give a shout out to my God mother Linda Coleman, my Aunt Lula Fredrick and my entire Wolcott squad in Chicago.

Instagram: Itsrickscatering

Facebook: ItsRicksCateringLLC

Image Credits
ItsRicks Photography