My publisher, Tyndale House, invited me to join them at the Atlanta Market to promote my new book, “Sweet Tea Secrets from the Deep-Fried South.” I had no idea how HUGE this event was! There were thousands of vendors and it seemed like a ka-zillion people walking around this seven-day event.
Most of the attendees were in search of the latest and greatest merch. My job was to locate the power women entrepreneurs who would love a sip of sweet tea served with a side of Southern-fried humor.
“Jane,” I said to myself. “Remember your secret recipe for success!”
I connected with some wonderful Southern sistahs at my book signing but when the crowd waned, it was time for me to hunt down more successful chicks who would love to feature my book in their shops.
Southern Chic Sistahs
My first attempt to locate my Southern sisterhood was a visit to Chick-Fil-A. I met some new Southern sisters but they were eating lunch and I did not want to be rude and share my sweet tea book while they sipped on their sweet tea beverage. Never mess with a Southerner while they feast on a fried chicken sandwich or anything fried.
I kept telling myself that these women were hungry and there has to be a watering hole for these ladies to gather. I walked and walked listening for thick Southern accents. I gazed across the masses in search of naturally streaked hair and not-so-naturally bleached teeth. Their makeup would be intact, these women would be wearing sensible but stylish shoes. Many would be dressed in the latest fashion– Bo-Ho (Bohemian) frocks.
My Secret Recipe for Success
It was then when I remembered my secret recipe for success:
- Have a sense of humor and a sense of purpose while in pursuit of these special ladies.
- Passion? Oh yes! We have a passion to work hard and to play even harder!
- And above all, celebrate the journey.
Suddenly, I stopped in my tracks….there they were. I found my power-lady-shop owners at Chicken-Salad Chick. This new Southern fast-food phenomenon has become a chic watering hole for Southern women.
Of course, it was founded by a Southern woman. Power women take care and support their own kind. Chicken Salad Chick is a sweet tea southern secret like no other.
Maybe we have fallen in love with Chicken Salad Chick because we have a kindred spirit to the names listed on the menu that reminds us of our own kinfolk: Dixie Chick, Barbie-Q, and my personal favorite, Nutty Nana.
So I stood in line, connected with these women and not only led them to our booth, but sold many Sweet Tea books.
Leading ladies know the secret, discover your own unique southern flavor, and share it with others.
So whether you are in the mood for a Nutty Nana or if you are craving some laughter from a “chick book,” be sure your menu includes humor, hard work and a happy journey!
Jane Jenkins Herlong is a Southern humorist featured on SiriusXM. The author of five best-selling/award winning books, Jane travels across the country sharing her sweet tea wisdom and Southern-Fried humor.
