Rising Stars: Meet Kristyn Bradshaw of Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristyn Bradshaw.

Hi Kristyn, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I have enjoyed cooking since I have been a child, some of my best memories are in the kitchen. It has always calmed me, and felt like a safe space to be in with my mom or grandparents. I always felt so interested in learning about it, and participating with my family. I took note of every single detail from preparing food and serving. Soon very early on, my mom taught me the basics of being able to cook on my own, so I started to do it as a hobby for my family. They thankfully allowed me to experiment and supported me! 12 years later, my hobby became my day job, and I found my passion for food & beverage and being in a restaurant. In Charleston, SC, I got the chance to work in so many different positions in the service industry. I love the fact that the culinary world can be so broad. There is constantly something new to explore. I try to continue everyday to learn, try new positions in the restaurant, research new foods, and expand my knowledge of food through school!

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I don’t think there is anything smooth about being in the service industry, and the culinary world. No matter what position you’re in, it takes a lot of focus, energy, hard work, and sacrifice. Those type of things come with the job. I lost a lot of time with family, gave up a lot of mental energy, and put a lot of physical stress on my body to be here. I don’t regret anything though, I feel like with this profession, every obstacle is growth. As long as you’re able to take a lesson away from each situation, you are growing.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I classify myself as a cook! I have been learning the industry for 8 years now. I gained a lot of experience in different specifications like culinary and baking, but while also working a lot of guest facing service jobs. I am most known for catering and independently selling my pastries with my startup business called “CookingWithKB”. I did this for a few years in Charleston, SC. However since moving to Los Angeles, currently I am enjoying the route of introducing private catering services, to clients at their convenience in comfort. I enjoy the individuality and the flexibility of being to showcase your talent. I am most proud of my ability to stay motivated everyday. In this field of work, I see a lot of people become burnt out easily. It is difficult to stay positive in an environment that constantly test your skills and patience. 8 years later, I still have the same drive. Instead of giving up, I learned to redirect my focus and give myself opportunities to learn new things. It is always refreshing.

Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I am not really a person that believes in “luck”. I believe that God makes everything happen for a reason. I truly believe that alignment in your purpose for him and truly releasing the idea of control in your life, gives you more opportunities. I have learned to let go of things that are out of my control, and focus on little things I can do for myself. Regardless of any situation that I am in, I am able to bring the positive out of it, which ultimately helps me grow. This mindset allows me to walk more confidently in life and business to feel a lot more calm.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefkristynandrea
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristyn.bradshaw