COOKING TRADITIONS

PRINCESS AFRICAN CUISINE LLC

My Journey Through Food and Love: A Story of Family, Culture, and Healing

My name is Princess Konneh, and cooking has always been my safe space. It’s been my sanctuary—something I turn to whether I’m feeling joy, sorrow, or anything in between. From the time I was six years old, cooking has been my way of grounding myself, of remembering where I come from, and of staying connected to my roots.

I grew up in Liberia, a country full of vibrant culture, rich traditions, and the warmth of community. Our food tells the stories of our ancestors, of the land, and of the love we share with one another. In Liberia, food is so much more than just what we eat. It’s about coming together, about sharing experiences, and about expressing care for each other through the preparation of meals. It’s part of our identity.

When I was young, my mother made the difficult decision to send me to Monrovia, the capital city, to live with my aunt. She wanted me to receive a better education, something she couldn’t afford at the time. My aunt, who is an incredible cook, took me in like her own child. I remember her kitchen like it was yesterday—the scent of palm butter, the sound of cassava leaves gently stirring in a pot, and the comforting warmth of the fire. That’s where I first fell in love with cooking. My aunt taught me to cook with love, and I grew to cherish the connection between food and family.

Cooking has always been my way of feeling close to my heritage. The smells, the flavors, the way each dish is prepared—it takes me back to my roots in Liberia, to my mother, to my family. It brings me peace. It’s where I find myself when life feels chaotic or overwhelming. Whether I’m cooking for myself or for others, I pour my heart into every dish. I love hosting people, creating experiences around food, and seeing how something so simple can bring people together.

But as much as food has always been my refuge, the greatest loss of my life came in 2024, when I lost my beloved mother. Her passing left a hole in my heart that no meal could fill. I miss her every day, and I carry the memories of her with me in everything I do. But even in her absence, I’ve found a way to feel her presence. As I was going through her things after her passing, I discovered a small jar of her favorite skincare product. It was something she always used, a blend of natural oils and herbs that kept her skin glowing and healthy.

That moment of discovery was so powerful for me. It felt like my mother was speaking to me through the simplicity of her favorite things. I started experimenting with the ingredients in her skincare routine, combining them in new ways, and it felt like a beautiful, healing process. I created a line of skincare products in her memory, using the same natural ingredients that she loved. Each jar, each bottle, is a tribute to her—her wisdom, her care for herself, and her love for me. It’s my way of honoring her legacy, and it brings me comfort knowing that I can carry a piece of her with me every day.

In many ways, my journey has been one of healing and self-discovery. Cooking has always been my way of connecting to my culture, my family, and myself. But through the loss of my mother, I’ve found new ways to honor her memory—by continuing the traditions she instilled in me, by cooking the meals that remind me of her, and by creating products that celebrate her beauty and strength.

Liberia, with all its beauty and complexity, will always be a part of who I am. It’s in my heart, it’s in the food I cook, and it’s in the memories I carry of my mother. The scents, the flavors, the traditions—everything I do, I do with love, with remembrance, and with a deep sense of connection to my roots. And as I continue my journey, I find peace in knowing that my mother’s spirit lives on in everything I create, from the meals I prepare to the products I make in her honor.

CEO, PRINCESS KONNEH STORY

CORE VALUES

Legacy: We are deeply committed to preserving the traditions and values passed down from my mother, blending them with modern wellness trends to serve today’s community.

Culture: We embrace the rich culture and beauty of African heritage, incorporating its wisdom into our cooking, skincare, and event offerings.

Wellness: We prioritize health, nourishment, and beauty, focusing on products and services that enhance the well-being of the body, mind, and soul.

Community: Just like the African courtyard, where people gather to connect, share, and celebrate, we foster a sense of belonging, connection, and unity in all our offerings.

Authenticity: We remain true to our roots by using natural ingredients, ethically sourced materials, and traditional practices in both skincare and cooking.

Our services

COOKING, SKINCARE, AND EVENT PLANNING WITH AFRICAN COURTYARD INFLUENCE

COOKING

African-inspired, wellness-focused catering for private events, gatherings, and corporate occasions.

Cooking classes that teach customers how to prepare traditional African dishes with a modern twist for health-conscious lifestyles.

Custom meal prep services using wholesome, natural ingredients rooted in African culinary traditions.

SKINCARE

Handcrafted skincare products made from African botanicals, herbs, and natural ingredients that promote beauty and well-being (e.g., shea butter, baobab oil, moringa).

A skincare line that honors my late mother’s recipes and traditions, offering products such as oils, scrubs, balms, and facial masks.

Gift sets and bundles that combine the beauty of African culture with self-care rituals.

Full-service event planning with an emphasis on African-inspired themes and cultural traditions (e.g., weddings, birthdays, corporate events).

Intimate gatherings and cultural experiences that incorporate African food, music, and skincare pampering.

Event spaces designed to evoke the warmth and communal spirit of an African courtyard, where family and friends can gather and celebrate.

EVENT PLANNING WITH AFRICAN COURTYARD

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Our mission

Our mission is to honor the legacy of family, heritage, and cultural wisdom through the fusion of exceptional cooking, innovative skincare products, and unforgettable events. Inspired by the warmth and community of the African courtyard, we aim to nourish the body, soul, and spirit by offering wellness-focused meals, handcrafted skincare products, and events that celebrate culture, connection, and creativity.

Our vision

To build a brand that honors my late mother’s legacy, merging her love for food, beauty, and community into a powerful wellness experience. We will be a pioneering force in the holistic lifestyle space, providing African-inspired cooking, skincare products, and unique event planning that create connections and celebrate tradition, creativity, and family.