Page 44 - South Mississippi Living - September, 2018

taking over
All in the Family
FUTURE BUSINESS OWNERS — AGES 3 AND 1 — HELP MOM story by Lynn Lofton photos courtesy of Fallon’s Gourmet
Often the future owners of Fallon’s Gourmet are on the job with the current owner, Fallon Josef. That’s because Josef likes to have daughters Laura, 3, and Lillian, 1, with her as much as possible during her busy work days. “Juggling small children and a business is definitely tough at times, but I wouldn’t have it any other way,” she says.
When asked about the future of the business, she hopes it always stays a family-style restaurant. “Of course I would be okay with the girls choosing a different career path,
but for now they’re learning the cooking and catering business,” Josef said. Laura goes on deliveries with her mom and already helps set up at events. She loves to cook at home and can crack eggs and stir ingredients with no mess.
“Cooking at home with the girls is a special time we can share together,” she recalls. She admits that she made sure the girls had a toy kitchen to play with before
they could walk, and even created a mini restaurant in their playroom to
help encourage their
love for the business. Customers are accustomed
to seeing the little ones around the business, especially since the girls have been there since they were three days old. “Being self employed doesn’t allow you time off for maternity leave,” said Josef. “I remember
leaving the hospital after having both girls and heading straight to the restaurant to
check on things.”
They say it takes a village, and Fallon
agrees 100 percent. “This is a family operation where everyone pitches in when
needed.” says Josef. She adds that a lot of credit must be given to her parents, Clayton and LaWanda Ramage. “I am
fortunate to have my parents here. They are retired now and help me so
much.” Husband Jason is also involved in all areas of
the restaurant. He helps with keeping the books, all technical
issues, and fills in when needed. And last but definitely not least, she praises her five employees. “I have a wonderful staff
who do a phenomenal job,” Josef said. She considers each of her employees family and credits them as being the backbone to the business. “They work tirelessly to produce delicious meals and help our daily operations run smoothly.”
44 SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living • September 2018
FOR MORE REFLECTIONS OF THE GULF COAST >> www.smliving.net
Laura and Lillian Josef enjoy their time growing
up at Fallon’s Gourmet.
Food makes people smile and so do kids
Laura Josef
Lillian Josef
Jason, Laura and Fallon Josef.
Laura Josef