As a certified health coach and nutrition nerd, I’ve always been a big fan of businesses that endorse and teach healthy eating habits, especially to the pickiest of eaters – kids! The Kids Table at 2337 W North Ave in Wicker Park teaches kids cooking classes and has been around for 14 years and is a well-known business in the area. In this episode, Elena Marre shares her story of going from a tax lawyer to opening The Kids Table and all of the rollercoaster ups and downs she’s endured, especially over the last year during the pandemic. She certainly embodies the spirit of an entrepreneur, weathering the storm and doing what it takes to keep the business open. She’s was a lot of fun to get to know and I hope you enjoy today’s episode!
In Elena Marre’s interview we discuss:
- The rollercoaster of the past year during the pandemic, including laying off and re-hiring employees, closing one location, and adding Facebook Live and live stream virtual cooking classes
- Creating cooking kits for Big Brother/Big Sister and other customers
- The history of the business and how she went from being a tax lawyer to opening The Kids Table
- Pivoting from a homemade baby food business to kids cooking classes
- The pre-pandemic Kid’s Table programs: cooking classes, birthday parties, after school classes, camps, charity work, and more
- The challenges of opening and operating a second location in Lakeview
- Not having street festivals and farmers market booths during the pandemic
- Reopening for in-person classes and for Summer Camp 2021
- Rekindling her passion for The Kids Table
Elena’s Nominations:
- A Little Photo Studio – Melissa Salvatore – photography studio and event space at 2868 N. Lincoln Ave (Lakeview)
- Easel Art Studio – Kerry Warner – kid’s art classes – 1911 North Milwaukee Ave (Bucktown)
- Pear Tree Preserves – Susie Kirkwood (at local farmer’s markets)
The Kids Table
2337 W North Ave
Chicago, IL 60647
773.235.2665
