Today we’d like to introduce you to Mark Richards.
Mark, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Cooking is something I look to do, and having a restaurant was something I always dreamed off opening; I drove 200 miles back and forward during Covid selling my sea moss drinks, and then I saw this location I had always had my eyes on, so I had a friend call and made an appointment with the property manager, we applied and put all our savings in getting the building, it came down to buying our family home or opening this business, and we choose the business, we found my dream, and it was the best decision we made as a Family, and we was bless with the best team.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Never been smooth; we tried to obtain a SBA loan, they never gave it to us, and we presented everything they asked for, that never stopped us. We did end up getting an equipment loan, and the rest was history.
We’ve been impressed with Wah Gwaan Jamaican Kitchen & Bar, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Wah Gwaan Jamaican Kitchen & Bar is a family business. We bring Good Food & Good Vibes to the community. We love what we do; we are here to serve this beautiful community; this restaurant is the real deal, real authentic Jamaican restaurant; serve with love.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Vermont & Slauson and Urban League as been to community organizations that as been great resources to help me with my business and introduce us to the best mentors Gloria Dioum; she helped me with everything on running a business, from marketing to booking keeping and more, and can’t thank her enough.
Contact Info:
- Website: Wahgwaanjakitchenbar.com
- Instagram: Wahgwaanjakitchenbar
- Facebook: Wahgwaanjakitchenbar
- Yelp: Wah Gwaan Jamaican kitchen & bar
Image Credits
My Wah Gwaan Team
