Today we’d like to introduce you to Victoria Chandler-Colbert.
Hi Victoria, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hi! My name is Chef Torie. I am the owner of Hashtag Cooking With Torie LLC (#cookingwithTORIE). My passion for cooking began as a child. I remember watching food network during my summer leading to middle school. Once I reached adulthood, I knew becoming a chef was my dream and that’s what I wanted to pursue. I attended Valencia College here in Orlando and graduated from there in 2018 with my degree in Culinary Management. From there I’ve worked in and opened some of the amazing local resorts. I’ve worked alongside great chefs on my journey which has helped me in honing my skills. In 2020 the pandemic hit and the resorts closed. During that time, I took it upon myself to find a way to still do what I love and serve others my creations. This is when I branched off onto becoming a businesswoman and taking the leap of faith as a Personal Chef. I strive to provide the ultimate dining experience for my clients in the comfort of their own home or home away from home. Seeing empty plates, and the smiling faces of my clients is truly rewarding. Cooking and creating recipes is my passion and I’m very thankful for the opportunity to live out my dream each day.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I wouldn’t say it has been a smooth road as there have been many obstacles. I started my business at the peak of Covid, which was great. Due to restaurants being closed or having restrictions more people opted to having meals prepared in their home with the same experience as dining out. In the Summer of 2021 I gave birth to my first son and had to turn down a good amount of clients as I recovered. I also was not as active on social media so I believe that prevented potential clients from finding my services. Marketing my services and making my business aware to potential clients has also been a challenge. Another challenge would be the fluctuation in the costs of food, gas prices and making sure I’m able to provide my services at an accurate price for myself and my clients. Sometimes it takes shopping around at multiple stores before I’m able to find the ingredients I need to prepare a meal depending on the store’s inventory. Though there may be challenges I don’t let them define my business and plan to keep pushing and working towards reaching more clients!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a personal chef and I cater to Central Florida and surrounding areas. I specialize in all American cuisine and love to cook food that’s good for the soul. Brunch is one of my most popular meals that I am booked for. I love to get creative in kitchen and come up with new recipes. I like to use fresh ingredients and support local when possible.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My mom has always been my top supporter and has motivated me to reach my success so I can’t thank her enough for that!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/hashtagcookingwithtorie?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/Chef-Torie-103846073765236/
- Yelp: https://m.yelp.com/biz/hashtag-cooking-with-torie-clermont?osq=hashtag+cooking+with+torie
- Other: Check out Hashtag Cooking With Torie LLC on Google! https://g.page/r/CdFynw0v1gsJEAE
