About Us – The Southern Gals Cook Ladies

Dana
Founder/Chef

My love for cooking and baking was found in my grandmother’s kitchen, the heart of our lively, bustling family. With five sons, five daughters-in-law, 13 grandchildren, and 27 great-grandchildren, there was always someone coming through the door—and always something simmering on the stove or baking in the oven.

My Grandmother and Grandfather built more than a big family; they built a legacy. Around their table, we learned that food has a way of bringing folks together, and a good meal is always better when it’s shared with people you love.

My own family is a little smaller—two sons, two daughters-in-law, and two grandsons—but my kitchen stays just as busy. I’ve always believed the kitchen is the heart of a home, and mine has seen plenty of laughter, good food, a few messes, and more than a little taste-testing over the years! 

Over the years, that love of cooking has taken me down some wonderful roads. I’ve had the joy of running a catering business, setting up at our local Farmers Market, and even getting to share my cooking as a guest on WBKO, our local television station and on WTVF Talk of the Town in Nashville, TN. 

These days, you’ll find me doing what I love most—cooking, baking, and feeding folks whenever I get the chance. I’m also proud to serve on the Food Service Committee at my church alongside some mighty fine women, who you’ll meet right here in this section. 

So, pull up a chair, grab yourself a cup of coffee, and stay awhile. Around here, there’s always room at the table, and there’s usually something good coming out of the kitchen!

Tenito (a.k.a, Aunt Tenito, pronounced Ta-ni-ta)
Chef/Baker

My passion for cooking started as a kid, wobbling on a chair to help my mom, Sylvia, whip up homemade rolls. My legendary great Aunt Ozie and the fabulous Cousin Martha (a.k.a. JoJo) were the culinary dream team who shaped my skills, serving up priceless lessons with a side of love.

Eventually, I transformed my garage into a commercial kitchen and jumped headfirst into the catering scene. Between whipping up catering favorites, I took on the role of Farmers Market pastry vendor, turning out cakes, pies, and breads. Realizing people can’t shop on an empty stomach, I spiced up my menu with breakfast and lunch options. Over the years, I’ve dished out meals at three different markets and even made a cameo as a guest cook on WBKO, our local TV station and on WTVF News Channal 5 in Nashville, TN.

These days, my life is a whirlwind of grandbabies and family escapades. Poppy {the hubs} and I have become professional cheerleaders; enthusiastically yelling for our grandkids at volleyball and football games. I am also a member of the Food Service Committee at church, where I wield my spatula with great pride and purpose.

Cindy
Chef/Baker

Cooking is my passion, and I’m always eager to learn more—pun intended. Growing up with my dad and sister after my parents separated, I mastered the art of grilling from my dad and refined my culinary skills with my sister’s guidance. Together, they transformed me into a kitchen superhero!

My husband and I own a slaughterhouse that also serves as his classroom, where he teaches me the fine art of smoking meats. But truth be told, our real pride and joy is the fresh sausage we produce every week like clockwork.

Cooking shows are my secret weapon for discovering new techniques and recipes. Baking is my happy place, and I’m on a mission to master the art of homemade rolls—watch out, world! Serving on the Food Service Committee at my church keeps me in the culinary spotlight, and recently I had the privilege of appearing on a cooking segment on WTVF’s Talk of the Town in Nashville, TN.

Melissa
Chef/Baker

Growing up in a bustling family of six kids, my mom was the queen of whipping up massive meals, and I was her enthusiastic sous-chef. Measuring cups? Please, she had the magical “eyeball method” down to a science. Helping her was like being part of a culinary circus act, and at supper table, she’d proudly announce that I had a hand in the feast—whether that was a compliment or a disclaimer, I’ll never know.

When I got married and started my own family, I discovered the joy of cooking for them, fully armed with the skills my mother had passed down—along with her talent for turning every meal into a culinary adventure, whether intended or not.

These days, I stay busy serving on the church kitchen committee, spending time with my family, and enjoying every moment with my two granddaughters. I’ve also had the fun opportunity to appear on WTVF Talk of the Town in Nashville, TN, showcasing my culinary skills!

6 responses

  1. Ron Ford's avatar

    Dana, my name is Ron Ford and I am the person who won the Italian Cream Cake at the benefit auction Saturday night in Alvaton, Ky. David Lamphear was right it is delicious to say the least. Never thought I would say this, hope my mom forgives me but it is as good as her’s, God rest her soul! If you would like for me to return the plate it was on please let me know, and again Thank You!

    Like

    1. southerngalscook's avatar

      Hey Ron, I am so glad you enjoyed the cake! No need to return the plate, but thanks for asking. I’ll soon be taking orders for the quickly approaching holidays, so if you would need a cake for an event, family get together, etc. just let me know and I’ll whip one up for ya!

      Like

  2. Lori's avatar

    Hey Ladies, I started following along due to my friendship with Tangi, but have grown to absolutely love this site!!! All of you are an inspiration in so many valuable ways. I’m still learning about the whole blogging thing, but can’t think of another place to do so. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

    Like

    1. southerngalscook's avatar

      Hey Lori! Thank you so much for taking time to let us know. We really appreciate your support and would welcome any feedback. Thank you!

      Like

  3. Leigh Costello's avatar

    Just found your website today while looking thru facebook posts. I am loving it. I love to cook. Thank you for sharing your ideas.

    Like

    1. southerngalscook's avatar

      Thanks Leigh. We need all the support we can get.

      Like

Please consider leaving a comment. We would love to hear from you!