SwagHer was able to sit down for an exclusive Q&A with Melanie about how her family and life experiences played a part in her sweet journey to success.
What was the spark that led you to launch Mama Dots Sweet Shop?
As a child growing up, I stood next to my grandma in the kitchen every day. It became a place that made me happy and joyful. It was then I had a dream to introduce her heavenly pralines to the world. My life took a turn for the worst and my dream was derailed. However, God had a plan for me and I started Mama Dots Sweet Shop in my kitchen four years ago. My unexpected layoff was just the push I needed.
How did your family history play a part in the creation of your signature pralines?
I spent a lot of time with my great-grandma Effie Lee, and she’s where I got my passion for great food from. She made sure we dined like kings from an early age. She and my great aunt owned a soul-food restaurant in South Baton Rouge in the 60s. They were popular for their soul food and sweet potato pies. My grandmother Dorothy, put her own spin on the classic pecan praline recipe when she was 15-years-old. Her pralines are one of a kind, and they are exactly what the world needs. A little more love. Our recipe has been and will continue to be passed down in our family for many generations.
How have your life experiences played a part in your journey?
I was raised in a domestic violence household. At the time I thought it was a weakness, but I’ve learned that it actually made me strong. It willed my mind and made me fearless and determined to do better. My grandmother’s house was an escape from reality. I wanted everyone to feel the joy I felt as a child. Being surrounded by my grandmother’s love when they eat our pralines is always satisfying.
How does it feel to change so many lives with your dream?
Growing up in Baton Rouge in an abusive household, I knew that there was something better out there for me. I’ve always had this vision. I wanted more, and I reached for better. We all make mistakes but the key is to learn and grow from them. My impact focuses on kids. They are the future. I want them to see that I am living proof that God can turn any situation around. You just have to want better, change your surroundings and believe that anything is possible.
What advice would you give to someone who is unsure about pursuing their dreams?
Don’t be afraid, go for it! Know that failure is a part of life. Be fearless in your pursuit, and don’t get discouraged when you hear no. Use the disappointment to fuel your passion. Put together a plan and work towards executing your goals every day. Even if you fall, get up and try again tomorrow. Prayer changes things, but you have to put in the work.
How did you want your products to be received?
We take the utmost pride in the Mama Dots brand, from picking quality ingredients to packing orders. Everything is done with love. We hope that our pride, love, and energy transcends through our products.
What impact did you make with your business launch?
Our impact is to create jobs and help build our own community. When I go to different cities they all have the same story. You can see how the minority neighborhoods are declining while other areas seem to be thriving. I’m usually one of the only faces in the room that look like me. I’m an example that you can do anything you put your mind to no matter what background you are from. I think that we have to start with the children as a collective to get the majority on the same accord in order to actually make a real impact.
How does your business build generational wealth?
My daughters are the first generation of our family that will actually see a change. We have to teach our kids entrepreneurship, ownership, trust, and investing. That’s the real key to generational wealth. And teach them to turn their passion into profit as well as impact. Always reach back and help someone up.
What can we expect from you in the future?
I have so many ideas and plans. My next venture is to introduce our heavenly salted-almond pralines at the Sweets and Snack Expo in Chicago on May 23-26, 2022. This is the largest candy expo in the U.S. I am super excited to be alongside all of the major candy manufacturers. I hope the Windy City is prepared to be blown away with our authentic Creole flavor!
You can find out more about Melanie and Mama Dots Sweet Spot Desserts by visiting their website.
