Meet Shonda Singleton-Taylor | Consultant & Business Owner

I was born in Lakeland, Florida and raised in the small town of Mulberry, Florida. My background and upbringing had a major impact on who I am today. I was primarily raised by my grandmother and grandfather. Throughout my childhood, I was involved in many different academic-related and extracurricular activities. I participated in activities such as learning to play the flute, piano and organ, cheerleading, drawing and painting, computer classes, flag corps, pageants at the church, singing in the choir, other church activities, as well as selling food items and fundraising activities. My grandfather always worked hard on his job and my grandmother had a love for cooking and baking. I had the opportunity to watch my grandparents run a successful business and was able to assist with payroll and various bookkeeping activities. Everyone around me had a strong work ethic, from my grandparents to my parents as well as my aunts and uncles. As a result of watching my grandmother, I had a desire to learn the basics on how to cook and bake. I would help her during holidays and other times when she had to prepare food and dessert. Everyone loved her food. I was blessed with that gift. I actually started selling cakes in middle school. My grandmother taught me the skills for business early on and I didn’t realize it until I was grown. She also taught me that anything worth having takes hard work and that things won’t always be easy. There will always be a challenge and to work hard and things will work out “if it’s the Lord’s will”.

I currently work as an IT Consultant and also manage a catering business. What sets me apart from others is my work ethic and my strong desire to be successful. I am proud of all of my accomplishments to date and I am super excited about the future. I got here where I am today by being determined to succeed, goal setting, having a strong work ethic and following my motto of “where there is a will, there is a way! We face challenges everyday but we have to continue to work hard and push through. I’ve learned that things aren’t going to be easy, the road to success is not straight, it is full of alot of turns and twists. I’ve also learned to never give up no matter what. My brand is Gertrude’s Kitchen, LLC and we love to put a smile on people’s faces through the love of delicious food and dessert.

We would visit the beach, many different restaurants such as a POC, an Asian Bistro, one of my Thai spots, Eddie V’s, Barton G, Village Tavern for Wine Night and other awesome restaurants. We would visit a location where we can have wine tastings…culinary arts. In addition, we would visit the Wynwood District for more entertainment and arts.

I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my grandmother who was been very instrumental in making sure that I had all opportunities possible to be successful. She saw the characteristics in me at a young age, and was very supportive in allowing me the opportunity to be the best that I can be. In addition, I had a great deal of support from my family and kids as well.