Today we’d like to introduce you to Ronisha Jones.
Hi Ronisha, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers?
Thank you for having me! I was born in Columbia, SC and have been here the majority of my life. After I graduated high school, I joined the US Army. Once I was discharged from the Army, I returned to Columbia. My love for my city grows year by year. It has been incredible to see the expansion of this place I call home. As I explore the city – mostly through my taste buds, I began to share the places I’ve enjoyed eating on social media. There has been such a tremendous response to my restaurant reviews that I have begun to share experiences in other cities as well. I am passionate about food – eating and preparing it and I love sharing great food stories with those interested.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road has not been easy. It took me a while to fully understand the intricacies of social media and what is required to have a strong, consistent presence. While my inbox is always flooded with “let me grow your followers” requests, I prefer to have followers who are actually interested in my content. I’m still working on growing my fan base.
With reviewing restaurants, the critics do not hold back with their comments. I’ve had to learn to take everything with a grain of salt and also remind people that I don’t work for these businesses. Not all taste buds are created equal. Just because I like, doesn’t guarantee every follower will. Everyone will not appreciate your content. Knowing that, I am careful about engaging with negativity online. I prefer to maintain my peace.
The biggest challenge is having the funds to produce and review relevant content. I often receive requests to review places and make specific recipes, but the majority of my reviews are on my own dime.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
In my professional life, I work in Information Technology as a software specialist. I have been in this career field for almost 20 years.
I am most known for sharing recipes through the hashtag #romade and exploring the Columbia food scene through the hashtag #eatingcolumbia.
In 2021 I planned to start a home-based bakery under the SC Cottage Food laws, but have had to put that on hold for a while. I have sold baked goods at various markets in Columbia, and hope to be able to return to this by the fall of 2022.
My genuine love of food and Columbia is what sets me apart. I try not to share too much negativity, businesses can have bad days too. There are so many amazing restaurants and businesses in Columbia! I love offering exposure to hidden gems and connecting customers to places that may become their favorite.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I have taken advantage of a lot of free courses and webinars through Richland Library. The Entrepreneur in Residence program has been invaluable to me!
Connecting with small business owners has also provided me with insight on what it takes to run a successful business and how to push through the hard times.
My advice would be to get to know the owners of the places you love. Most business owners do not mind sharing helpful tips! Don’t be afraid to “jump in the DMs!” Social media is a free and easy way to network. Be kind and show gratitude to those that help you along the way, and always pay it forward.
Contact Info:
- Email: contactromadeit@gmail.com
- Website: www.romadeit.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ro_made_it/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yesromadeit
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@missrorobaby?lang=en
