Meet Paisley D’Jour | Private Chef & Event Coordinator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Paisley D’Jour and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Paisley, how do you define success?
I find that success to me, is ultimately tied to my own sense of fulfillment. To be successful is to know that I have lived a life that is meaningful and purposeful, and that I have made a positive impact on the people and world around me.

For me, success is not simply about achieving a particular goal or reaching a certain level of wealth or status. Rather, it is about the journey that I have taken to get there. I believe that true success comes from staying the course, even when faced with adversities.

I believe that it is only through enduring the challenges and difficulties that life sometimes gives that we can truly grow and develop as individuals.

As I continue on my journey of success, I become more confident in knowing that I am successful because I am true to myself and committed to my purpose. I have a clear vision of what I want to achieve and I am willing to put in the hard work and dedication required to make it happen.

Please tell us more about your art. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
As I reflect on my career in the culinary and hospitality industry, I believe that what sets me apart from others is my unique combination of creativity and awareness of the world beyond the bubble. Having had the privilege of living in many different places, I have come to realize that there are several forms of commonality between people from all walks of life, and food is one of them.

One project that I am particularly excited about at the moment is my new cereal line, which brings together the classiness of French macarons with the fun and accessibility of cereal. The cereal features bright pink pieces of miniature French macarons and marshmallow bits, making it unlike anything else currently available on store shelves. I am thrilled at the prospect of seeing it in stores and sharing this unique culinary expression with the world.

Throughout my career, I have received invaluable advice on how to navigate the ebbs and flows of the industry. One particular piece of advice that has carried me through many kitchens is to always “keep the standard.” By holding myself to high standards, I have been able to aim for greatness and to attract extraordinary opportunities. Of course, not every day has been perfect, and I have faced setbacks along the way. But my faith and perseverance have always been my formula for rising above adversity.

I have learned that setbacks are simply a part of the journey, and they should not be taken too hard. The key is to keep moving forward in order to see progress. Looking ahead, I am excited to leave my mark on the culinary industry in a major way. I plan to build culinary programs for special needs children and to use my brand as a guiding light for those who are inspired by the work I have done. Ultimately, I hope to be known not just for my culinary creations, but for the purpose and impact behind them.  

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc. In your view what are some of the most fun, interesting, exciting people, places or things to check out?
Living in Arizona has given me the opportunity to explore some of the most fun and interesting places in the restaurant scene. There are so many great eateries to choose from, but my absolute favorite is Toca Madera. The food there is a modern take on classic Mexican cuisine and is served with a fiery and fiercely delicious flavor that always keeps me coming back for more.

When I’m in need of some relaxation, I love to take staycations at the Omni Monte Lucia. The weather is always perfect, and the resort provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s simply fabulous!

But perhaps the most interesting and beautiful place that I have had the pleasure of visiting in Arizona is Antelope Canyon. There is something truly mystifying about coming face to face with a natural landscape as stunning as Antelope Canyon. The way the light dances across the walls and illuminates the colors and patterns is truly breathtaking. It’s an experience that I will never forget.

Whether I’m seeking out new culinary adventures or exploring the natural wonders of Arizona, this state never fails to amaze me. With so much beauty and excitement to discover, I feel truly blessed to call Arizona my home.

Alright, so let’s jump right in! The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there a person, group, organization, book, etc that you want to dedicate your shoutout to? Who else deserves a little credit and recognition in your story?
As I look back on my life and my career, I am filled with gratitude for the many extraordinary individuals who have played a role in shaping my trajectory. From mentors to restaurant groups and beyond, these people have inspired me and pushed me to be my best self. But when I think about the person who has had the greatest impact on my life, there is one person who stands out above the rest: my late older brother, Joseph.

Joseph and I were nine years apart in age, and from a young age, he was a hero to me. I watched in awe as he navigated the world with a fluidity and fearlessness that I could only dream of. As the younger of two siblings, I looked up to him and wanted to be just like him when I grew up.

As I got older, Joseph continued to be a main character in my story. He poured into my passions without hesitation, always encouraging me to think and speak for myself. He believed in me and always told me that I could do anything and be whoever I wanted to be in this life. He urged me not to shy away from risk, but to embrace it and to always strive to be the very best.

Despite the fact that Joseph is no longer with us physically, his impact on my life continues to be felt every day. His unwavering support and guidance has helped me to become the person I am today, both personally and professionally. I know that I would not be where I am today without his influence, and for that, I will always be grateful.

Website: djourco.com

Instagram: djourco

Image Credits
Alyssa Williams-Bauman