Wendy’s House of SOUL relocates to Glenwood Avenue
By Maurice Hudson Intern Reporter
Wendy’s House of SOUL reopened at its new location, 1825 Glenwood Ave.
Owner Wendy Puckett experienced an array of challenges in the past year despite being seven years into the business. In November of last year Puckett was shot in the face with a pellet gun and the incident caused the business to close for a few weeks prior to Thanksgiving.
Wendy Puckett, chef and owner of Wendy’s House of SOUL
Photo courtesy of Facebook
Thanksgiving is a big holiday for catering and business for the House of SOUL.
Puckett was determined to come back from the incident but COVID-19 derailed her plans. Small businesses, especially food establishments, closed amid the virus, but slowly opened up for delivery and take out.
As things started to make their way back to normal, Puckett learned that she lost her lease.
“The owner (of the building) said he wanted out,” Puckett said. “We were working out arrangements, then he completely changed his tune.”
She went from nearly owning the space to losing the lease in a matter of weeks. But the hardship presented an opportunity. The new location is about seven minutes away from the old location and the new building has its upsides.
“It’s a huge blessing. Having more room and more opportunity to cater is huge for the business,” said Pam McCurdy, director of accounts and marketing at the Market Troupe, which represents the restaurant.
Heather Puckett, sister of Wendy Puckett, said she also is thankful for finding the new location.
“We’ve bounced around place to place but now we have found a home,” Heather Puckett said.
The relocation of Wendy’s House of SOUL gave the business renewed hope. The new location has private, off-street parking, a full kitchen, a full dining area and the business is able to utilize the full square footage of the location.
Wendy Puckett said the dining area will not be open until it is safe to do so according to CDC regulations and the business will stick to takeout and catering in the meantime. The interior of the building was designed within four days in preparation of the grand opening.
Wendy Puckett highlighted the slight difference and disadvantage that comes with the new location.
“I’ll miss that people can watch us cook. People liked to see us cooking,” Wendy said.
The owner and chef said she wants the re-opening to be a positive thing for the community to look forward to.
“I want to cook for people and see their smiles,” Wendy Puckett said. “I want the masses to love my food, come and eat, and have peace.”