Meet Teshauna Nicole | Entrepreneur & Artist

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

Hi Teshauna, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The inception of Wholethyme Kitchen was a product of my experiences as a vegan professional dancer touring the world. Constantly on the move, I recognized the crucial need to nourish my body adequately, leading me to delve deeper into the realm of nutrition during my travels. Through my studies, I uncovered the prevalence of lifestyle diseases, particularly impacting the black/melanated community, prompting me to think about creating a solution.

In response, I started sharing my recipes, recommended books, and nutrition tips on social media, eager to address the nutritional gaps within my community. As I connected with my audience, I realized the profound impact a plant-based lifestyle could have on health. With a vision to create a lasting business that could seamlessly transition into my role as a mother, I structured Wholethyme Kitchen to thrive both in physical spaces through vending and pop-ups, and in the digital realm with an online community hosting cooking classes.

This dual approach allowed me to maintain a strong connection with my audience, whether through in-person interactions or online engagement. Wholethyme Kitchen became a platform not just for sharing recipes but fostering a community dedicated to healthy living, transcending physical boundaries and becoming a hub for plant-based knowledge and culinary exploration.

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.
At the core of my artistic journey is my love for dance; the way music makes me feel and the profound way it connects people has always fascinated me. I embarked on my career as a professional dancer at 18, touring and traveling with some of your favorite artists until I was 26. However, I felt the need for a hiatus from the entertainment industry to truly understand the woman I was becoming.

During this period of reflection, I sensed a disconnection from family and friends, and I yearned to nurture those relationships. It was then that I decided music would be my next chapter, albeit with some trepidation. Initially nervous and caught in a writer’s block after recording “Long Distance Lover” and “So Amazing,” I realized I needed time and space to evolve creatively.

Now, I find myself in an exciting creative space, anticipating recording a project that reflects not only my pregnancy journey but the woman I have become overall. Merging my music with my dance talents, I’m stepping into uncharted territory, and I’m thrilled to see where this multifaceted journey takes me.

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?
When it comes to my favorite spots in Atlanta, it’s a curated mix of great food, vibrant atmospheres, and relaxation. If we were embarking on a day together, we’d undoubtedly start with a visit to my business, Wholethyme Kitchen, holding a pop-up inside Vegan Dream Donuts in the West End. It’s a shameless plug, but between us, it’s some of the best plant-based food you can find in Atlanta.

Next, for a dose of fun and lively vibes, we’d wander around Little Five Points. The eclectic shops and diverse crowd make it a perfect spot for exploration and connection. Another gem in the city is a spot called ‘Your 3rd Spot.’ Picture an adult arcade with fantastic music, good food, and drinks—it’s a place I took my partner to celebrate his birthday earlier this year.

And, of course, no day is complete without some self-care. We would explore all the natural spa and self-care spots the city has to offer. A good massage and a manicure are my go-to indulgences. Together, we’d immerse ourselves in the city’s diverse offerings, creating memories and enjoying the best Atlanta has to offer.

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 am profoundly grateful for everyone who has played a pivotal role in my journey, and I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to those who have been by my side along the way. First and foremost, I want to thank God for continuously providing me with the opportunity to operate in my divine purpose.

A special shout-out goes to my mom, my close friends Zay, Millie, Reggie, and Jeremy, and my partner Jah, who have been unwavering pillars of support. Their encouragement and belief in my vision have been invaluable.

I also want to express my deep gratitude to Ras from Vegan Dream Donuts in the West End of Atlanta for generously opening the doors for me to host my weekly pop-ups, which played a crucial role in growing my business.

Last but certainly not least, I owe a debt of gratitude to my mentor, Angie of Afro Yoga By Angie, who has been instrumental in guiding me and helping me navigate the intricacies of running a business. Her wisdom and support have been paramount in my growth.

To each and every person who has been a part of my journey, your contributions have not gone unnoticed, and I am truly thankful for the love, support, and opportunities you’ve provided. Together, we continue to make strides towards our goals, and I am excited for the journey ahead.

Website: www.wholethymekitchen.org

Instagram: @basquiatana x @wholethymekitchen and a plant based living archive @organiclilbaby

Image Credits
John Washington JR