Meet Tori! | Stamford Moms

How many kids do you each have and what are their ages?
I have a 7 year old.

What are your favorite family activities in the area?
We like Sky Zone, the movie theaters, Stamford Nature Center, Lego Land, the Norwalk Library (pre COVID) Muse Paint Bar and Silverman’s Farm.

Why did you decide to raise your family in this area?
I grew up in Norwalk so I enjoy the community aspect and that it’s diverse! We have a well balanced mix of that NY City vibe and suburban life. I love that they’re embracing local artist and all the pop murals on the side of buildings. I can do without all these new apartments buildings popping up, but that’s another topic.

Tell us about Breakfast Belle.
Breakfast Belle is a southern style catering company. I Introduce the North to an authentic Southern catering menu, with love and true Southern sass, by way of my mother and late grandmother Sarah (Jefferson) Brown’s teachings and hometown of Santee, SC.

I’ve also created and manufacture two food products for retail sale; Bamma Hot Sauce and Bamma Fish Fry, a pre-seasoned seafood cornmeal.

Why did you decide to start your business?
I started my business because I’ve always had a love of cooking, logistics and hosting private events.  Each time I create a meal, I feel my late grandmother’s spirit shining down on me.

What do you love about your business?
I love that it allows me the space to get creative. I love sitting back during an event watching folks enjoy my food. It just makes the long days in the kitchen totally worth it!

What is your favorite thing to cook?
Everything lol. That’s such a hard one! But, I would say my Southern Oxtail and Grits. It’s warm, hearty and belly filling!

What is your go-to weeknight meal?
Red Snapper! I love sprinkling my snapper with my Bamma Fish Fry Cornmeal, pan frying it a little, popping it in the oven. I love it with a side of roasted honey brussles sprouts, yellow squash or cabbage.

How do you juggle work and mommyhood?  
That’s a never ending battle, but I have a few tricks. I tune out work after certain hours. I make sure we eat dinner together and designate a day for movie night and our Mother Daughter date. Kids love things, but they appreciate play time, so I’m mindful of playing with my child each day (dolls, Just Dance, etc.) Even if it’s for 30 minutes. It means the world to her.

I also helped her start her own beaded jewelry business called JOJO’s Beads, so that also allows me to spend quality time.

I designate one day week  for self care (facial, massage, lunch alone, shopping, drawing, a good nap). I implement a strict bedtime for my child so I can have a least an hour or two to myself at night.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve gotten from another mom?
It’s ok if you don’t get it all done in one day and it’s ok to treat yourself.

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