#FoodfortheSoul Feature - Mercedes (Dee) Davis

@blackgirlsintraderjoes

 

My name is Dee. I am the creator of Black Girls In Trader Joe's. I am a mom, entrepreneur, small business owner & home chef.

 

How does it feel to be a Black creator?

Being a Black creator is liberating & empowering.

 

What has brought you joy this year?

In the last year, the things that have brought me the most joy are being able to share my love of cooking & creating fun meals/snacks with the community of Black women. We know Black women are usually the matriarchs that feed families, so being able to be creative & implement things that I was taught from the Black women that raised me has brought me immense joy.

 

My Black joy is       ?

Unapologetic

 

What does Black joy mean to you?

Black joy means being free to be who I am, as creative as I want to be. Celebrating being a Black woman, who loves to cook, create & feed those I love.

 

       feeds my soul.

Creativity

 

How does togetherness feed your soul?

Togetherness bring me joy because it usually involves food, laughter, great music & creating memories. Some of my fondest memories growing up involved being with family & friends, eating home cooked meals & laughing until it hurt.

 

How have you stayed motivated to overcome challenges?

Staying motivated comes from my family. They're supportive & loving that even when I'm feeling unsure about something there's always a message to keep going & stay encouraged.

 

Do you have a special take on a favorite comfort food?

I love to take things that my Granny taught me how to make & put my own spin on them. We spent a lot of Sundays cooking together & when I cook, it's always paying homage to her & all she taught me.

 

Where do you draw inspiration from?

Black women. Black women from all walks of life. Black women always inspire me.