Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Ruiz Santiago
Hi Jennifer, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I fell into cooking on accident. I have always loved cooking, but was so sure I would be a Chiropractor just like my grandpa.
When Covid hit I met a father and son looking to open a Mexican restaurant in a gas station in Port Orange. They were looking for a Chef to lead the way. It was a failed partnership, but it helped me fall back in love with cooking.
I ended up going my own way and opening La Diva Mexican Kitchen in the same gas station. I was there for 2 years and decided to close. I knew I was not done, so in time I decided to shift to meal prep and catering and now could not be happier. I am living a dream come true. I reopened as La Diva Holdings LLC in Mid 2024.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has definitely been a rough road. The food industry is so hard. I have put alot of sweat and tears into trying to make my business work.
Food cost, hiring reliable people, finding a new kitchen, and trying to balance mom/wife life have definitely been a challenge.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about La Diva By Chef Jenn?
My business is La Diva By Chef Jenn. We cater office events, private parties, weddings, baby showers, any and all events. We also offer meal prep and nutrition coaching, private chef services, event planning and decorating, bartending services, collaborative Casino and Poker Parties with Lois Cosentini, and so much more. We are available to cater anywhere in the world!
I specialize in making food taste delicious! I am definitely known for my authentic Mexican tacos and cuisine, but am also known for wide variety of ethnic options and mixed menus.
What sets me apart from my competitors is that I truly care about each and every party we cater. Ever plate of food that is eaten, is important! I am always willing to go the extra mile. I answer questions and inquiries immediately. I will do whatever it takes to make it happen.
I am most proud of the amazing customer service my team and I provide. I literally have the dream team with Hannah Lake, Taylor Cox, Lindsey Riedel, Serenity Ruiz, Nico Ruiz, and Draven Samayoa. I could not ask for more amazing people!
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growning up I was more of a nerd. I loved school, reading, cooking, sports, and learning. I was definitely a tom boy. I played softball, was an ice hockey cheerleader, and was in NJROTC.
Personality wise I was a very angsty, goth teenager. I enjoyed spending my free time with my friends and boyfriend. I also spent a lot of time helping my mom with my baby brother and sister.
In high school I was absolutely obsessed with Iron Chef and Emeril Lagasse! Every chance I got to watch tv, it was Food Network!
Contact Info:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaDivaChefJenn
