Happy International Women's Day!
Today, we’re celebrating the female restaurateurs of Legacy Hall! We’re so proud to be able to work with such inspiring and hardworking women everyday here at Legacy Hall. Our hope for the future is for more boss ladies like chefs Tiffany Derry, Kelly Ball, and Martha Ware to break into the food industry and continue making delicious food.
Read more about our awesome, boss ladies below:
Tiffany Derry of Roots Chicken Shak
Title/Role: Chef/Owner
What is your favorite part of your job? Getting to know my guests.
What is the most challenging part of your job? In the restaurant business, every day is very different and if one mistake is made people can be down right mean and ugly. Often times people begin so much stronger and we end on a much kinder note.
What is the most rewarding part of your job? I am blessed to do what I love every day. I love how a good meal can bring people together and bring so much joy!!
How important is it for women to lift each other up and what does that mean to you? When I was growing up, I never saw a woman in my industry and I knew once I achieved a higher position I wanted to be there for others. We are much stronger together and there is power in lifting others. It is important for us to be there for each other because representation matters. The younger generations are watching and we can help give them the tools they need to be extremely successful.
On International Women’s Day, what is the most important message you want to send out to young women thinking about their careers? You can do it!! Even if you don’t see another person that looks like you doing what you want to do, you can do it. I leave you with one of my favorite quotes Be So Good They Can’t Deny You.
Kelly Ball of Leila Bakery
Before founding Leila Bakery, Chef Kelly Ball ran the cooking and food blog Naturally Curly Cook. However, making food is more fun than talking about it, so she started selling baked goods and quiches at farmers markets and to wholesalers in East Dallas.
The more she baked, the more her fanbase grew, and soon she was known for hand-made, finger-pushed quiche, and stand-alone flaky crusts.
Kelly’s all-female kitchen staff has helped her stay focused on growing her business and she attributes her success to their strength and support.
Marth Ware of Mallow Box
Title/Role: Mallow Box Founder and Owner
What is your favorite part of your job? There are way too many parts of my job I love just to name one, but among them are, having the chance to use my creativity every single day, inspiring moments of deliciousness in our customers, and creating a company culture that emphasizes teamwork, growth and fun.
What is the most challenging part of your job? The overall turnover in restaurants is very high, so, building a cohesive, consistent team can be a challenge. We are lucky to have such an amazing team and are always looking to add outstanding professionals who want to grow with our company.
What is the most rewarding part of your job? Seeing those amazed, happy faces, especially on children, when they first see their treats. It’s priceless.
How important is it for women to lift each other up and what does that mean to you? I believe it’s important for people to lift each other up, no matter their gender, however, it’s especially important for women to lift one another up because they can relate first hand with the challenges and hurdles of every day life, balance between work and family and our own expectations to being the perfect mother, daughter, wife, friend and professional.
Which women are you inspired by in your local community, and globe? I get inspired by ordinary women who don’t know how extraordinary they are. Those women who juggle work, husbands and kids, those who give opportunities to unprivileged people, those who dedicate part of their time to inspire other people, women who don’t discriminate, who support others, who laugh and cry for no reason, or because of so many reasons, because they really see what’s around them, because they pay attention.
Which men do you find inspiring that are doing their part for women’s equality? All the men who are there for their women, one way or another. Those who many times don’t understand us but stand by us. Those who celebrate our victories and walk our walk.
On International Women’s Day, what is the most important message you want to send out to young women thinking about their careers? Never give up. Never give up on your dreams, on your goals, on your happiness. Chase it and make it happen. Do it with passion but also with kindness, respect and compassion. Remember to be kind before trying to be right.
