Community Highlights: Meet Chef AC of The Soul of American Cuisines

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chef AC

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
From the Biology Lab to the “Culinary Lab,” my journey has been one of discovery and purpose. It all began in the heart of my grandmothers’ kitchen in South Carolina, back in 2006, during simpler times before kids were glued to their phones and laptops. As the oldest, and admittedly the most intimidating of my siblings, I wasn’t one for chasing adventures in the woods or sweating through hot summer days outside. Bugs, snakes, and all things outdoors just weren’t my thing.

Instead, I found my happy place in the kitchen, where I fell in love with the science of cooking and the magic of creating something special from scratch. Under the watchful eyes of my late great-grandmother, Wilhelmina Scott (Bigma), my late grandmother, Loretta Scott Duncan (Sweet Lo), and my late aunt, Octavia Scott (Aunt Tate), I learned the basics of cooking. More importantly, I learned the value of family, tradition, and sharing love through food.

Cooking wasn’t just a skill; it was a way to connect, to show care, and to let my creativity flow. For a while, my culinary passion took a back seat to life’s demands, but in 2020, those old passions started bubbling back to the surface. By 2021, I couldn’t hold them back any longer—my talents took center stage, and I was reborn as Chef AC, ready to share my gifts with the world.

The journey wasn’t easy—in fact, it was just getting started. After graduating from Clemson University with a B.A. in Biological Sciences amid the COVID-19 pandemic, I sought new opportunities that bridged my academic background with my lifelong passion for cooking. Drawing on the Southern culinary traditions taught by my grandmothers and combining them with my scientific expertise, I founded The Soul of American Cuisines, LLC in March 2021.

Life threw some serious curveballs my way—job scams, homelessness, and the heartbreaking loss of loved ones—but these challenges became the catalyst for starting my business. Through it all, I found myself drawing closer to God. During this time of uncertainty, I began to see things differently. God stripped away all the distractions and, in what felt like a blessing in disguise, carved out a path for me where there hadn’t been one before. I truly believe that the COVID-19 pandemic was a turning point, a moment that opened my eyes to the bigger picture.
For two years, I endured hardships, persevered, and evolved while pouring my heart into building my business. Even when others dismissed my vision as unrealistic, I kept my focus. I’ve always believed, “Nobody is going to believe in you until you show them.” So, I bet on myself, no matter how narrow the road became.

With the unwavering support of my family and loved ones, I dove headfirst into my passion. Whether I had one client or fifteen, I moved forward, one step at a time. I never lost hope, ambition, or determination. I channeled my creativity, gifts, and every resource at my disposal to forge ahead. As I often say, “You must always use your experience as a clutch, not a crutch.” Even when you’re down one day, you can be up the next.

Throughout my journey, I remained fully committed to my business. Whether I was honing my skills in the kitchen, crafting new recipes, marketing myself in public spaces, or reaching out to potential clients, I approached each task with dedication. I used both traditional and modern marketing strategies, and I focused on refining my time management and leadership abilities—all while uplifting others in need. From the beginning, I envisioned a brand that was not only creative and vibrant but also intentional in its presentation. I’ve always seen myself as more than just a cook—I am a chef, and I strive to educate and enlighten my clients, creating a full culinary experience. I take pride in distinguishing the role of a chef from that of a cook, ensuring that my work is respected for its depth and artistry. Quick to correct those who refer to me as a cook, I explain the difference: “A chef creates while cooks imitate.”

Coming from a small town, I’ve always been driven to highlight alternative career paths beyond the conventional roles often promoted in my community. I understand that in the South, especially within the Black community, many people are encouraged to pursue familiar career options like teaching, medicine, law, or social work. But I wanted to make a difference through my cooking and my business. My commitment to quality shines through in every dish I create. By prioritizing healthier ingredients and offering a fresh take on traditional Southern cuisine, I aim to change the perception that Southern food is inherently unhealthy. Although healthier ingredients can be costly, I work tirelessly to make luxury personal chef experiences accessible, even to those who may not typically have the opportunity, including those who are less fortunate. I’m passionate about using my gifts to spread light wherever God leads me.

After years of consistent effort—refining my craft, building my social media presence, and enhancing my personal chef services—I finally began to see the fruits of my labor. While some may view my success as overnight, I take pride in the long nights, challenges, and perseverance that brought me to this point. With dedication and grit, I gained 30,000 followers and earned the opportunity to cook for professional athletes and celebrities. Now, I have grown my following to over 43,000 and have worked with both local and global brands. Through this success, I’ve redefined myself as “The Chef in THE Dress,” blending my passions for fashion and cooking. This fusion led me to create Culinary Curves™, a brand that empowers women in the culinary industry to not only cook well but also feel confident and stylish while serving clients. Over the past three years, I’ve transformed my life and continue to strive and thrive as a chefpreneur, personal chef, caterer, social media food reviewer and critic, business owner, rising social media influencer, and culinary mentor.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The journey of entrepreneurship is rarely smooth, and mine has been no exception. After graduating from Clemson University in 2020 with a B.A. in Biological Sciences and a minor in Psychology, I found myself navigating the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite applying to numerous jobs, working as a leasing consultant, and completing a graduate program in pharmaceuticals and medical devices, I struggled to find a path that truly resonated with my passion. Doors seemed to remain closed no matter how hard I tried. It was only when I returned to the drawing board and looked inward that my chef business began to take shape.

Starting a business is much like navigating a cobblestone road—filled with bumps, detours, and obstacles. One of my biggest challenges was grappling with self-doubt, questioning my purpose, and feeling torn between meeting others’ expectations and staying true to the path I believed God had laid out for me. Understanding my self-worth and staying focused on my vision has been crucial. I’ve learned that those who achieve greatness often see what others cannot, doing what seems impossible and being perceived as unconventional until they reach the pinnacle of success. This journey is ongoing, but I’ve faced the battles head-on, discovering my true self along the way. Realizing I had nothing left to lose, I made the decision to go all in.

The challenges of being a recent graduate, coupled with the economic uncertainty of the pandemic and the personal losses of my grandmother Loretta and my aunt Octavia, added layers of complexity to my journey. Entering the personal chef space as a young woman came with its own set of challenges, especially in areas where hiring a personal chef was unfamiliar. My youth and appearance often led me to constantly prove myself, not only to clients but also to friends, family, and my community.

One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is understanding the seasons of entrepreneurship—the importance of staying hopeful, connected to God, and being my own motivation, even on the toughest days. I remind myself that my purpose is larger than any setback, and that serving others through my culinary gifts is my way of serving God. Maintaining consistency, ambition, and a positive outlook is difficult at times, but having a support system of mentors, mentees, colleagues, and a reliable team has been invaluable.

Yet, Entrepreneurship can often feel isolating, and in those moments of loneliness, it’s crucial to remain focused on the vision and deepen one’s connection with God. I’ve also had to come to terms with the reality that how you start doesn’t dictate how you finish, and not everyone who begins the journey with you will be there at the end. Building Chef AC, Culinary Curves™, and The Soul of American Cuisines, LLC has come with significant losses, and the weight of those losses is something I continue to navigate. The toughest of these was the passing of my dear friend, Camryn Olivia, who was not only close to me but also a new addition to my branding team. More recently, I lost my significant other and best friend, Diondre Overton, who had been by my side since the very beginning—supporting me from our days cooking together in college dorms. He was my constant source of motivation, my food critic, my test dummy, and my number one supporter. Losing both of them has had a profound impact on my life, my mental health, and my motivation. Despite these heartbreaking challenges, I continue to push forward each day, channeling my pain into my passion. Their memory fuels my drive, and I am more determined than ever to honor their support by pursuing the vision we began together.

Earning respect was tough at times. I encountered judgmental looks, dismissive remarks from elders, and constant criticism. I overcame these challenges by trusting my instincts, expanding my knowledge, and embracing new experiences. I can’t overlook the long nights and countless calls with my “momager”; her tireless support and advice have saved me more times than I can count. Travel also became an essential part of my journey, helping me confront my fears and evolve into a traveling personal chef. This experience not only introduced me to new cultures and clients but also fostered deep personal growth. Along the way, my clients have become my greatest teachers, shaping me into a leader, mentor, and team player. Today, I have a team working alongside me—something I once couldn’t have imagined.

One of the most difficult lessons was learning to assert my worth and confidently demand what I deserved. I often heard, “You have to crawl before you walk,” and while that used to frustrate me, I eventually realized that my crawl doesn’t need to follow anyone else’s pace. Others may attempt to confine me within the limits of their own expectations, but I’ve come to understand that it’s not my responsibility to reshape their perceptions. I refuse to be restricted by their box of expectations. Living by my motto, “Your vision is your path to your destiny,” serves as a constant reminder to persevere. As I believed in myself, God created opportunities where none existed.

As you know, we’re big fans of The Soul of American Cuisines. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about the brand?
The Soul of American Cuisines, LLC represents more than just culinary excellence—it is akin to a tree with branches extending into various domains envisioned by a higher purpose. From our culinary creations to fashion, mentorship, and crafting soulful experiences, we strive to offer something truly exceptional.

Over the past three years, I have had the privilege of collaborating with renowned brands such as McCormick Seasonings, creating my own seasoning blends, and launching my women’s culinary fashion brand, Culinary Curves™. My services have reached some of your favorite professional athletes and celebrities, and I have been featured in various magazines and podcasts. At The Soul of American Cuisines, LLC, every meal is crafted with a blend of history, tradition, and love. My goal is to infuse each dish with the essence of Southern American cuisine, delivering succulent, fresh, and quality meals that leave an unforgettable impression.

We are dedicated to educating our clients about healthier eating options and providing meals that reflect our commitment to quality. Our focus is on using organic, non-genetically modified (GMO), and minimally processed ingredients, ensuring that every dish not only satisfies but also aligns with our values of health and indulgence. With Chef AC, expect a culinary journey that melds diverse cultures and innovative traditions, offering a taste of both my heritage and my creative approach.

I am often praised for my professionalism, presentation, and brand quality, but what I am most proud of is seeing God’s promises come to fruition through perseverance and dedication. With The Soul of American Cuisines, it’s not just about the food, the uniforms, or the cooking—it’s about fostering unity and community through even the smallest experiences. A single bite of a curry meatball can ignite conversation, leading to a deeper craving for more. This culinary experience opens doors to learning, forming friendships, networking, and creating opportunities for meaningful connections on a higher level.

Specializing in Southern American cuisine with a modern twist, we aim to challenge the stigma that Southern food is unhealthy and unappealing. We cater to a wide range of dietary preferences, including veganism, vegetarianism, pescetarianism, as well as traditional and international cuisines. Our services include personal and private chef experiences, dining, brunch, catering, and meal preparation, available across the United States and internationally.

As The Chef in THE Dress, I have merged my passion for food and fashion through Culinary Curves™, a pioneering culinary fashion line. This brand is dedicated to revolutionizing traditional chef attire by introducing the world’s first chef dress. Culinary Curves™ stands at the intersection of style and functionality, celebrating inclusivity and luxury. We aim to empower chefs with designs that enhance confidence and comfort in the kitchen, while also making a historic impact as the first Black woman-owned culinary fashion line. Culinary Curves™ is committed to education, cuisine, and community engagement, creating a holistic approach to supporting individuals on their culinary journey.

Join us at our table, where the experience goes beyond just food. We aim to enrich and elevate your palate while nurturing your spirit, providing not merely a meal but a memorable journey that nourishes both body and soul.

What’s next?
The future plans for The Soul of American Cuisines, LLC and Culinary Curves™ are designed to be seen rather than spoken. I believe in the power of moving in silence while manifesting goals and allowing my work to speak for itself. However, I am excited to share that The Soul of AC is expanding beyond our current operations in North Carolina, Georgia, and South Carolina to new locations on the Northern East Coast and the Midwest, with a focus on Dallas, Houston, and Austin, TX.

Additionally, I am also excited to embrace more collaborations with chefs, businesses, and to participate in seminars and workshops—opportunities I had previously approached with more caution. Our ongoing efforts in the Carolinas are showing promising results, and I look forward to seeing these developments come to fruition in the months ahead.

I take great pride in my team and their individual accomplishments. As we continue to grow, we aim to deliver even more innovative culinary experiences while expanding our talented team. The progress we’ve made in just three years as a travel chef, food influencer, vlogger, and food critic has surpassed my expectations. The future is bright, and I can’t wait for you to join us on this exciting journey and witness our continued success.

Pricing:

• Brunch & Private Dining: $450 Minimum
• Catering: $475 Minimum
• Meal Preparations: $200 Minimum
• Travel Chef Services: $550 Minimum
• Large Events contact Chef AC for more details

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tasteofthesoul.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoulofac
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083014050538
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@chefautumnscott2619
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@chefac_

Image Credits
2Smooth Visual Media (@2smoothvm – Instagram)
Teflon Behind the Lens (@thereal_teflonbehindthelens – Instagram)
Chef AC (@thesoulofac – IG)