Today we’d like to introduce you to Lara Harris.
Hi Lara, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Thanks for having me! My journey into the health and wellness world started as a teenager when I became interested in how nutrition impacted physical performance. When I went off to college, at the Univeristy of Dayton, I decided to study Nutrition and Fitness. I then went on to Loyola University Chicago where I got my master’s in dietetics and did my internship to become a Registered Dietitian (RD). After graduating, I started a job as a wellness dietitian at a local school district in my hometown of Cleveland, Ohio. After the school year was over, I moved to Nashville – I had visited many times and knew I wanted a change, so it was either Nashville or back to Chicago… and I chose the mild winters and hot summers! Once in Nashville, I got a job as a telephonic health coach, helping people reach their wellness goals. I also had a few side hustles, one of which was working for a start-up in the restaurant space. I started to get really into cooking, “healthifying” recipes and sharing them on my Instagram @TheWellFedGuide.
I was getting pretty burnt out at my 9-5 starring at a computer screen and found an opportunity to meal prep in people’s homes. I took the leap, quit my full-time job, and started cooking. Initially, about 6 hours/week which was incredibly scary! But my schedule picked up really quickly, and I then started cooking and delivering meals to friends. Who told their friends…who told their friends. And the rest is history! Nashville is such a supportive community, and word of mouth goes a LONG way. I was up to cooking 6+ hours/day most days of the week and knew I needed help. So, I began hiring chefs to cook for clients as well. I’m now still cooking most days of the week but also have a team of nine wonderful chefs that help lighten the load.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There have definitely been bumps along the way that have helped me learn and tackle the next issue. I’ve had to work on communication, managing a team, setting expectations, and overall patience! Food and cooking can be so personal, and people’s preferences and tastebuds are all so different. I’ve definitely learned to take things less personally and use it as an opportunity to improve.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about The Well Fed Guide?
The Well Fed Guide offers custom meal delivery in Nashville, TN. We don’t have a set menu – all meals (and snacks!) are tailored towards your food preferences and how much food you need that week. Meals come ready to eat and can be made to serve individuals or families. Think of it as your own personal chef!
I share most of the recipes we make via Instagram @TheWellFedGuide. There I share my own recipes as well as on my website, www.thewellfedguide.com. You can also find out more information about meal delivery and see sample meals there.
How do you think about luck?
I was incredibly lucky to be a part of Shed Group Fitness in the Gulch when I started my company. The trainers and other members were so helpful in spreading the word about The Well Fed Guide’s meal prep. I haven’t had to do any advertising because of how quickly word spreads in Nashville and how eager people are to support small businesses!
Contact Info:
- Email: lara@thewellfedguide.com
- Website: www.thewellfedguide.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewellfedguide/
