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Kennedy Alexis Patton
Growing up in Louisiana with a family who truly epitomized the family gatherings such as the ones on the movie Soul Food, I begin to understand the importance of family. Around those dinner tables many important decisions were discussed and made. My family, although not renowned culinary figures in society, could compete with the best of them.
I remember helping my grandmother “MaMa” in the kitchen as a young girl. If I had known she would be taken early from me, I probably would have asked more questions or listened more carefully. She truly could take any ingredient in the fridge and pantry and create a culinary masterpiece. She was gifted that way.
My other grandmother “Madea” could make the best carrot cake in this world. I have yet to duplicate it, but I am getting close. I won’t even go there about her mustard or collard greens. Have you ever heard of the expression “slap ya Mama”? Yes, they are that good!
My father could fry the best catfish. Simply incredible! He wasn’t limited to that either, because everything he prepared was simply “delicious”. Now the kitchen looked like a hurricane had been through it afterwards, but it was worth it after consuming his masterpiece.
I guess you are wondering what role my mother played in my love for baking and cooking………..ABSOLUTELY NONE!!! Believe me, this is said out of love too. My mother has always hated cooking. The interesting thing is she is a great cook, she just chooses not to showcase her skills. Interesting, huh!
Now this brings me to my brother, Marvin. Who knew that in the past 10 years he would become such an excellent cook? He now has taken on the role of frying catfish, making jambalaya & seafood pasta from scratch. He even makes this crawfish gravy to go over the catfish. His culinary skills are out of this world.
So imagine my surprise when I married my husband, Darwin, and he says he wants to go to culinary school. He has truly spoiled me, because I desire no other’s bar-b-que, but his. It is true perfection every time.
For several years now, I have been baking for people. Although the dream was birthed when I was a little girl, it took many years for that dream to become a reality. I toyed around with the idea of opening my own business for years. Fear is what held me hostage. I now know the power of fear. It can rob you of a dream quicker than a thief.
I have to let you know that there are truly several inspirations that have gotten me to this point. There are many who have supported this work in progress. Without them supporting me, I would still be held captive by fear.
My husband bought me the issue of Black Enterprise featuring Luv’s Brownies. I was so inspired by her story. I still look at that issue from time to time, and I will always keep it. My cousin, Kiesla, who told me that I would have to step out on faith and make my dream happen. My cousin, Ursula, who told me that I had been going around this mountain too long now, and I need to make it happen. My sister, Monique, who believes in me no matter what the dream is.
I can not list all the family members and friends who have lifted me higher by giving me their support or words of encouragement. Just know I know who you are and won’t forget your kind words.
Regarding the name of the company, it is named after my daughter Kennedy. She is truly the apple of my eye. She is the reason I keep moving forward, because I want her to know that all things are possible. She has truly acquired a sweet tooth too. She thinks every cake I bake is her birthday cake. As you can see, I named it Kennedy’s Sweet Tooth after my daughter’s love for sweets.
I thank you for visiting the site and letting me share my love for baking with you. Everything is truly baked with love and yes, there is a difference! I truly enjoy what I do for it is truly my passion.
