November 2021 Spotlight: Preeti W.
MEET PREETI
We are so excited to introduce our November spotlight of the month: Preeti W., owner of Cheeni Cafés in Raleigh, NC, that offer Indian-American grab-and-go eats, baked goods and beverages.
Here's how Sana recalls her first time meeting Preeti:
She probably doesn’t know this, but Preeti may have subconsciously been an early inspiration behind the creation of 1Eatz. I first met her a few years ago at a farmers’ market in Raleigh. She offered me a taste of this amazing homemade tomato jam at her bakery cart. I don’t know if it was her kindness or the brightest smile I had seen all day, that interaction left me thinking: "What would it be like to quit my job, create something of my own and set up a table at one of these markets alongside her some day?" That thought quickly faded as I moved on and forgot all about it.
It was exactly a year later, the summer after, I was proudly setting up 1Eatz’ table at one of our very first local markets in Downtown Raleigh, and there she was, two tables down from me. I quickly ran over to introduce myself and she said with the same ol’ bright smile, “I remember you!” That made my day.
So thank you Preeti for being an inspiration! Not just for me, but for the others in our community who have seen you work hard, give back and grow your small food business into two brick and mortar café locations only within a few years. I wish you all the success and more.
If you're in the Raleigh area, we highly recommend you check out Cheeni cafés, you wouldn’t be disappointed.
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Hear from Preeti:
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Tell us something that might surprise us about you.
I learned how to ride a motorcycle when I was ten years old. -
What is your motto or personal mantra?
This too shall pass -
If you could be any fictional character, who would be and why?
Obelisk from the Asterix comics. I'd like to be that strong, plus his glee over food is my favorite. -
If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
To feed everyone who is hungry. - Is there anything else you'd like to share with us?
I'm always surprised by my reflection in the mirror. I feel much younger internally.
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