Today we’d like to introduce you to Cidney Wilcox.
Hi Cidney, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was always destined to be a chef. In particular, a private chef. I wrote in a paper when I was 12 that I was going to be Oprah’s personal chef. I even changed high schools after 10th grade because they had a culinary program. I formally studied at Johnson & Wales in Charlotte and worked my way up through many facets of the industry, ultimately landed my dream career as a traveling private chef.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Honestly, it has been pretty smooth. The biggest bumps were when I wasn’t able to work. For example, I tore my Achilles when I was working for Atlanta personal chef services and I couldn’t work. I was out of a “job” for about 4-5 months and it was tougher to get back on my feet. But it ended up being the best thing to ever happen, as that is when I met my first NBA client and got to travel the world with them. I have been extremely blessed and resilient, and not ever questioning that whatever blessings were around the corner, were going to be the best yet. And every single time I’ve been right. My faith in everything being exactly as it should be and the best for me, never wavers.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a private culinary artist. My wheelhouse is in curating dinner party experiences and date nights. I also have daily clients that I cook for during the week. I specialize in most cuisines and really enjoy a challenge. Give me ingredients that I’ve never used or a technique that I can learn and I’m all for it. My clients’ fam favorite are my shrimp and grit cakes or my pork belly tacos with brussel sprout slaw. I’m most proud of my elevation and want, to always grow and learn. I’m proud of the decisions I’ve made and the people I’ve met along the way. I’m proud that I know that I’m only just getting started. What sets me apart from people is my attention to detail and sheer amount of love and vibrancy I put into my dishes and experiences. I love connecting with people and changing people’s minds about something they thought they didn’t like, until they had mine.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Perseverance. Knowing, no box. There’s no ceiling in cooking and I push envelopes. There’s nothing basic about my cooking style.
Contact Info:
- Email: Chefcidtastic@gmail.com
- Website: Chefcidney.com
- Instagram: Www.instagram.com/therealchefcidtastic
Image Credits
Michael Circos
Regan Perez
