Meet Schenita | Business owner

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

Hi Schenita, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
“Starting my own business wasn’t just a decision—it was a calling. After going through a personal season of loss and growth, I found healing in the kitchen. Cooking, baking, and serving others gave me a voice again, one I had prayed to regain. I started The Sweet Spoon and More More because I wanted to pour that love into every bite, offering more than just food—I wanted to offer comfort, joy, and connection. My business is built on faith, passion, and a deep love for people. Every order is a piece of my journey.”

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My work is more than food—it’s a ministry of comfort, culture, and connection. Through The Sweet Spoon and More More, I specialize in homemade desserts and soulful dishes, many of which are inspired by recipes passed down from my grandmother, Annie Mae Leary, and my mother, Maudie Leary. What sets me apart is the heart behind every bite. My food tells a story. It carries love, legacy, and healing.

I’m most proud of how this business was born out of brokenness. After walking through a painful divorce, I asked God to restore my voice—literally and spiritually. And when He did, I dedicated my voice, my hands, and my purpose to serving others through food. Every cake, pie, and plate I serve is my way of saying, “you’re seen, you’re loved, and you matter.”

Getting to this point wasn’t easy. I’ve faced self-doubt, limited resources, and moments of silence when no orders came in. But I overcame it with prayer, community, and sheer perseverance. I learned to be faithful with little, to remain consistent, and to always keep the “why” in front of me.

What I want the world to know is this: The Sweet Spoon and More More isn’t just a brand—it’s a testimony. It’s about turning pain into purpose, and serving hope one sweet bite at a time. Whether you’re tasting a mini sweet potato pie, a pineapple juice cake, or macadamia cookie bites, you’re tasting generations of love and strength.

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?
If my best friend was visiting for the week, I’d make sure they got the full Southern experience—flavor, fun, faith, and feel-good moments!

Day 1: Kickoff with Comfort
We’d start with some good home cooking—of course, I’d have to treat them to something from The Sweet Spoon and More More first! Maybe a slice of Pineapple Juice Cake or some mini sweet potato pies fresh from the oven. After that, we’d wind down with a walk at Tybee Island or Ocmulgee Mounds for a peaceful, scenic vibe.

Day 2: Macon Magic
We’d head to Downtown Macon to explore the soul and music history—check out the Tubman Museum and Otis Redding Foundation. Grab lunch at H&H Soul Food—because that place is legendary!

Day 3: Foodie Fun
I’d take them on a local food tour. Hit up Bearfoot Tavern or Parish on Cherry St. for great vibes. Later, we’d visit Taste & See Coffee Shop for something sweet and soothing.

Day 4: Small Town Gems
Drive through the smaller towns like Fort Valley and Perry—support local vendors, check out the boutiques, and maybe catch a local farmer’s market or festival. That’s where you find the real gems.

Day 5: Day of Praise & Pamper
We’d go to a powerful worship service somewhere spirit-led, and then follow it with a self-care day—maybe spa time, good gospel music, and lots of laughter.

Day 6: Community & Culture
I’d introduce them to some amazing local people—small business owners, musicians, and creatives. Maybe even get them to join me for a pop-up event if one’s happening. We’d end the day with peach cobbler egg rolls and a movie night.

Day 7: Full-Circle Sunday
We’d close the trip with brunch and gratitude. Something soulful, like shrimp and grits, sweet cornbread, and fresh lemonade. Sit outside, talk about life, reflect, and dream big for what’s next.

To me, it’s not just about where you go—it’s who you share the experience with. And with the right people and good food, even the simplest spots feel like home.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My journey wouldn’t be what it is without the love, prayers, and push from some amazing people. First, I give honor to God—He gave me my voice back and the strength to start again.

A special shoutout to my children, Brandon and Bria Dennard—your love and patience have kept me going, even on the hard days. To John and Angela Zanders, Chiquita Coley, and Sally Lassiter—thank you for your consistent support, encouragement, and for always reminding me of my strength.

To my mother, Maudie Leary—your presence and part in my story matter. I’m proud to carry on your legacy and the legacy of my grandmother, the late Annie Mae Leary, by using the homemade recipes you both passed down to me.

To the late Alphonia Leary Sr., my father—thank you for instilling in me the value of hard work and the importance of treating people right. Your legacy lives on in me and in everything I do.

And to my amazing customers—thank you for trusting me with your tastebuds and supporting The Sweet Spoon and More More. Every order, every kind word, every repeat visit means more than you know. You’re part of this story too.

Facebook: The Sweet Spoon and More More More

Other: Schenita Leary Facebook

Image Credits
Schenita Dennard and Bria Dennard