Jennifer Mims has been in the restaurant business for almost 10 years and with that experience it only seems natural that she would open a restaurant of her own. Based on serving real, regionally grown food, Mims and her partner Nate Carlson opened Real & Rosemary in Homewood, Alabama to serve simple, family recipes using food that isn’t just good for you, but makes you feel good. MyScoop sat down with this very busy mom to talk about what inspires her.
What inspires you about waking up each morning? My sweet daughter often runs down the stairs in the morning and covers me in hugs and kisses. She is four years old and I know these days are short – I treasure every one.
What inspires your work? I am inspired by the thought that I have the opportunity to make someone’s life better or easier. I am passionate about serving food and families. Many of my friends have the same “problems” that I do – how do I eat well? How do we feed our family every day? And of course the age-old question, “What’s for dinner?” The fact that I get to offer solutions so that people can spend time with those they love is exciting to me.
How does your family inspire you? My husband is extremely supportive of me. He loves our family unconditionally and makes sacrifices for us every day. Looking into the eyes of my daughter and my son motivates me to make the world a better place for them – a place where they can pursue their dreams without anything standing in their way. There is nothing I wouldn’t do to make their lives better.
What is your favorite place in the world? My current favorite place is Real and Rosemary! It is the friends and family I spend time with that make places so special, and being able to share friendship and food with those I love is a great blessing.
What advice would you give women going through life’s trials and tribulations? Always take the high road, no matter how hard it is. On the other side, you will be glad you didn’t compromise your values. Take the next right step and don’t look back.
How do we begin to seek a better life? Do good to those who can’t do good to you. Forgive yourself. Take risks. Dream big. Never give up. Pray continuously.
Describe your personal style? Classic styles with a pop of color. I like simple, clean styles that are timeless. In the restaurant, I wear lots of ballet flats and simple jewelry. Given the choice, I would wear a dress every day.
What did you wear as a child? My mother is a very talented seamstress, and she made the most beautiful hand sewn dresses for me throughout my childhood. Those were always my favorite, and I still have some that my daughter wears now for special occasions.
What is your favorite quote? “Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Who have played mentor roles in your life? I have had many strong women that have mentored me throughout my life – my mother, my grandmothers, teachers, and professionals. Dr. Cheree Causey, Dr. Lonnie Strickland, and Greg Dollarhyde amongst many others all played an important role in my life.
Advice to women in their 20s. Be confident in who you are. Find your voice and speak up. Don’t settle for the safe, expected route if that is not your dream. Find what you love and pursue it – everything else will follow.