Keeping it Fresh
Written By: Megan Sones of Chasing Kids in Heels
Food is a key factor in the sustainability of human life. However, GOOD food is so much more. Good food can be the topic of conversation, motivation, and entertainment. As children we are consistently encouraged to try new foods and experiment with different flavors. As adults, the majority of all social engagements and interactions revolve around food. How fitting that Aurora LaMarca, a mom of two, had great practice in creating fun and exciting meals for her now grown kids, but her passion for cooking translated to her family and friends as well.
Just like we tell kids almost daily, it is important to give and receive second chances. Aurora was given that opportunity when her finance career hit a crossroads in 2018. With her company closing, Fresh Meals by Aurora was created. As a business, Fresh Meals by Aurora develops customized meals for clients in a delivery style service. Meals can be portioned individually or as a catering style setup, however, each order is specifically customized by Aurora in conjunction with the client. Using the inspiration of her French and Italian roots, Aurora develops unique dishes and flavors in her foods ranging from a variety of meats/proteins to soups to pies. Aurora ensures the use of the freshest ingredients “from our kitchen to your table.”
Dietary restrictions, allergies, or meal planning? No problem! Aurora works directly with each customer to customize meals to their needs and tastes. Of her cooking style, Aurora says, “I tend to stay away from a diet trend since there are so many and they pretty much are short lived. Our meals are made with fresh herbs, fresh produce.” This helps to ensure happy bellies and happy customers. Aurora says that one of the most rewarding things about being a chef is watching people enjoy her food, but also receiving compliments from customers in the form of reorders and referrals.
What began as a small scale operation has turned into a larger community outreach project as well. Fresh Meals by Aurora, has expanded beyond its original projections and expectations based on word of mouth and social media exposure. Additionally, Aurora is in the process of establishing a brick and mortar store, located in Manalapan, New Jersey.
One of Aurora’s goals is to help teach children strong eating habits. She would love to have multiple storefront locations throughout the state of New Jersey, create a baby food line, and start a nonprofit organization or participate in one geared toward assisting mothers and families plagued by cancer. Recently, Fresh Meals by Aurora was able to donate meals to a local family whose 2 year old daughter was battling cancer. “I have a passionate caring side when it comes to children who are not fortunate and going through hard times. If I can help in any way to give back and put a smile on someone’s face by giving them a good fresh meal, that goes a long way!”
With big dreams, Aurora and her family made many sacrifices in order to begin this business and to continue to expand, even amidst the COVID pandemic. The original funding for the company was directly from Aurora herself, even going as far as selling her house to make her dream a reality. Starting a business at age 52 and completely switching career paths, Aurora feels as though she is constantly learning something new. Both Aurora and her cousin and business partner Silvana were not given the opportunity to attend college as daughters of immigrant parents that came to the United States, noting that they were raised differently than the “typical” American family. That factor has not stopped Aurora.
Aurora’s message for young girls looking to begin an entrepreneurial journey is to “go after your passion, make a successful career with what you love doing, never settle, and believe in yourself! Never give up, even if you come across obstacles. Sometimes it just isn’t the right timing, but don’t give up. I am a good example of that.” This determination and positive mindset have helped Aurora quickly grow her business. She is not afraid to accept assistance in areas that she does not feel are her expertise and she remains open minded, working towards the end goal of providing the best possible services to her customers.
Ultimate Cayman Cookout Challenge
Never one to turn down a challenge, when I asked Aurora what she would prepare if she was commissioned to make a “feature” or signature dish for the Cayman Cookout, her wheels quickly started turning. After researching the food culture of the Cayman Islands, she selected a “signature” dish that best represents the Island- Seafood Chowder. A literal labor of love, Aurora makes her own seafood stock combining shrimp, fresh herbs, fresh vegetables, and good white wine. She selects a variety of fresh fish, perfect for the Cayman Islands locale, including monkfish, fresh lump crabmeat, scallops, cod, and shrimp. Traditionally reserved for special holidays, such as Christmas Eve, based on its complexities and flavors, Aurora notes, “this dish has tons of savory flavors when you combine all the different fishes together, and the homemade fish stock that requires time peeling all the shrimp shells to make this amazing seafood stock is so worth it!” All that’s needed is a side of pasta or a warm crusty French baguette and a nice salad to make it a meal.
I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to jet set on a tropical vacation full of food, fun, and friends!
For more information on Fresh Meals By Aurora, you can find the company on Instagram @mealsbyaurora or on Facebook by following Meals by Aurora.
**All photos courtesy of Aurora LaMarca**
Check out: Recruiting for Good's Celebrating Lovely Women (stories that inspire girls to have fun fulfilling lives).