We were lucky to catch up with Gabriella Woodson Terry recently and have shared our conversation below.
Gabriella, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Many of times I am the only one in the room that looks like me. I am 32, bi-racial and a female business owner. I started my company at 25 years old, so I am use to being the youngest one in the room. Then add in a women and a minority and people look! With that being said, I use to always wonder if I was good enough? Did I deserve to be here? Could someone else do this better then me? Then I stopped and took a good look at my life, what I was doing for others, how I was impacting the community and how my company was helping others! How could I be an imposter? I may not be the best yet at a certain skill, but I was willing to learn how to be! I may not be as talented as someone else, but I was thankful for the God given talents God gave me to create my business and make a difference in others lives! I quickly learned that no one can do what you do exactly like you because there is only one you! You are amazing, you are unique, you are one of a kind therefor if you just be who God created you to be and called you to be, you can never be an imposter. Only you can be you!
When you think you are not enough, don’t have what it takes, and you will fail….. that is just yourself motivating you to do the opposite! No one knows you better than you! You are your biggest cheerleader and enemy, but when the enemy side shows, that is the deeper side of you motivating you to push forward and do anything you set your mind too! Your name is not imposter! Your name is you! – Gabriella Woodson Terry
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
My name is Gabriella Woodson Terry! I am the owner of Chefella’s, LLC which is home to a few different companies! From Luxury Picnic’s to Catering and Events, we are known for all things hospitality/ food industry! What sets my business a part is our customer service! We treat each customer like family! We also are very big on being active in the community, as well as serving those less fortunate! We have a homeless initiative called “Chef in the Community” which was create to help put a stop to hunger! Another awesome thing about of company is that we are a one- stop shop for all things catering and events! Clients can come to our showroom and plan their event from start to finish. We take the stress of planning your wedding, corporate catering or gala away so that you can enjoy your event!
Our showroom has everything from 300 plus linens, china, décor and more!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
3 skills that have most impacted my journey are:
1. Learn to listen- Many of times we think we are listening but we are not! We are so busy in life and many of times living on autopilot! When you slow down and take the time to learn and listen from others who are or have done what you do, you will learn so much as mentors are a blessing and full of knowledge!
2. Be a self learner- If you do not know something, do not just ignore it or ask someone else to tell you (easy way out). You need to dig deep, find your inner hustle and put in the work to learn all about whatever it is! As a business owner, you can never be lazy! You are constantly learning, evolving and growing as a person as well as a leader!
3. Never give up- There are days when I have worked 16 hours, had a ruff day and am very tired and just want to give up. I then quickly remember my WHY…. why did I start this business? How many peoples lives have we touched at Chefella’s? This self check quickly puts my purpose back in check and I push forward!
If you are early in your journey and struggle sometimes with your WHY, or feel like giving up, just remember you got this! You matter and you have what it takes to succeed! You just need to listen and soak up all the knowledge you can, continue to hustle when you feel you are running on E and eventually before you know it, you will be witting an article like this inspiring others with your wisdom and knowledge!
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Collaboration is key! Successful people help make other people successful! With that being said, we are always looking to collaborate with vendors in the hospitality industry! We love meeting new bakers, photographers, videographers, florist, etc. to partner with! Are you just getting started and looking for a mentor? We would love to meet you and make some connections that will help grow your business! Feel free to email us at [email protected] or call us at (919) 359-2884! Follow us on social as well @Chefellascateringevents
Contact Info:
- Website: www.chefellascateringevents.com
- Instagram: @chefellas
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChefellasCateringEventPlanning/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chefella-s-catering-and-event-planning
- Other: [email protected] Email (919) 359-2884- Office
