Today we’d like to introduce you to Sylvia Graf Carrethers.
Sylvia , we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My Journey: How Simply Prima Was Born
In 2004, my life changed in an unexpected way: I discovered I had a serious allergy to wheat. At the time, gluten-free products were hard to come by—and what was available often lacked flavor, texture, and joy. But rather than feel defeated, I saw it as a challenge. I began experimenting in my own kitchen, determined to create dishes that were not only safe for my new diet but delicious enough to share with others.
With five children to feed, I was already cooking for a crowd. But it wasn’t long before friends and extended family began noticing just how good the meals tasted. Their encouragement planted the first seed: maybe I had something truly special.
Fast forward to 2014, and with a little push from my children, I officially launched my business. I started out small, renting a commercial kitchen to produce snack mixes and my signature gluten-free, refined sugar-free granola. It was nourishing, real food—crafted with care and intention.
Then came a turning point: a friend asked if I’d help her try the Whole30 program. She was so excited that she invited others to join, and before I knew it, I was preparing full meals out of that same kitchen. That’s when my meal delivery business was born.
When COVID-19 struck, my work took on deeper meaning. My team and I were delivering up to 200 meals each Monday—including meals donated to ICU and NICU staff caring for patients during the height of the pandemic. We wanted to make sure these frontline heroes had healthy, sustaining food to keep them going during grueling shifts.
From there, Simply Prima continued to evolve. I saw the growing need among busy families, seniors, and people with dietary restrictions to have meals prepared in their own homes, tailored to their preferences. Over the past four years, I’ve worked with clients going through chemotherapy, empty-nesters rediscovering the joy of food, and parents who just want dinner to be one less thing to worry about. For many of my clients—especially elderly ones—my meals make it possible to continue living independently, nourished and cared for.
Today, I continue to offer my signature gluten-free baked goods by special order, and my beloved granola remains a pantry staple for many. But the dream is still growing: I hope to one day open my own kitchen space, where clients can stop in for healthy, ready-to-go meals—crafted with the same love, flavor, and dietary mindfulness that started this journey.
I believe food should never feel like a compromise. Having allergies or dietary restrictions doesn’t mean giving up on flavor, comfort, or joy. Through Simply Prima, it’s my mission to prove that every single day.
— Sylvia Graf Carrethers, Chef & Founder of Simply Prima
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
One of the biggest obstacles in my journey has been finding a commercial kitchen space that is truly safe for the type of food I prepare. For someone who specializes in gluten-free, allergen-conscious cooking, the risk of cross-contamination in shared kitchens is a constant concern. Many available spaces aren’t equipped to handle the strict protocols needed to ensure the safety of my clients—especially those with celiac disease or multiple food sensitivities. That’s why having my own dedicated kitchen space isn’t just a dream—it’s a necessity. It would allow me to maintain full control over the environment, guarantee the integrity of every ingredient, and continue to serve my clients with the confidence and care they deserve.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
In addition to personal chef services and meal prep, my business has grown to include a variety of other offerings that bring people together around delicious, intentional food. I provide catering for intimate gatherings, small parties, and special events, always customizing menus to fit the occasion and dietary needs of the guests. I’m also available to be hired as a private chef for Airbnb stays, family reunions, retreats, and weekend getaways—bringing a restaurant-quality experience right into the home or vacation rental. For those who want to learn and have fun in the kitchen, I offer cooking lessons tailored to individuals, families, or small groups. Whether it’s a hands-on class in allergy-friendly baking or a multi-course dinner for a special occasion, each experience is crafted with care, creativity, and the same passion that sparked Simply Prima from the start.
What I’m most proud of is that I built this business from the ground up through self-study, determination, and faith. I didn’t go to culinary school or business school—I learned everything on my own, from food safety and nutrition to marketing, pricing, and operations. With the help and encouragement of my family, especially my amazing husband and children,, I’ve been able to turn a personal health challenge into a thriving business that serves others. Starting Simply Prima later in life has been one of my greatest accomplishments, and I hope my journey inspires other women—especially mothers—who are ready to chase new dreams after raising their families. It’s never too late to begin again or to step into something that’s truly your own.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
The quality that has been most essential to my success is my ability to truly connect with people. I approach each client with compassion, care, and a genuine heart for serving—not just food, but comfort, dignity, and peace of mind. I believe that’s what sets me apart from many others in this industry. For me, it’s not just about preparing meals; it’s about nurturing relationships and creating a sense of home and ease for the people I serve. Many of my clients have told me I’ve become like family to them—and honestly, I feel the same. I’m incredibly grateful to work with the most amazing clients in the world, and I don’t take a single one for granted.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.simplyprima.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplyprima
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/simplyprima
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/Id2yn9jVkG
