EVERETT — Susan Rose Cook appears to have all the ingredients it takes to launch a successful new business.
First, consider her last name. Add to that her degree in home economics with an emphasis on nutrition. Simmer it with years of experience in the food service industry, baking, cooking and serving fine meals. Blend in her organizational skills with a love of people and that could be a recipe for entrepreneurial success.
Cook, 54, has taken what she believes are her strengths and talents from former employment and offers those services as the Right Hand Woman, working in the homes of busy professionals and seniors.
She shops for groceries and gifts, takes clients to appointments, organizes busy family schedules for dental appointments and oil changes, and cooks nutritious meals for families.
“Healthful nutritious cooking is really my forte,” Cook said.
It can be a nightly challenge for working professionals with or without children when it comes to serving homemade, nutritious meals.
Too often, fast food or eating out seems like the only easy option when a grueling day at work has drained the brain of every ounce of decision-making.
But according to Cook, more and more people want something else: healthy, nutritious meals at home.
“They want home cooking that is healthful, that will sustain them in their busy lives,” Cook said. “With proper nutrition for them and their children.”
Cook meets with clients to find out what they want. She easily provides meals for diabetics, vegetarians and others with dietary restrictions.
“Errands, shopping and event planning are a big part of what I do,” Cook said.
She plans and cooks for dinner parties at client’s homes or for their business, and many people in business hire her to help their clients.
“I just think it’s a good service and one that I don’t see around,” said Dick Bennett, a broker with Champions Real Estate Services in Edmonds.
Bennett used Cook’s Right Hand Woman services when he sold properties, asking her to cater dinner for clients during the transition of moving into their new home. The clients had more than enough to do and Cook’s services were a welcomed gift from Bennett.
When an associate’s spouse had hip surgery, Bennett again called on Right Hand Woman.
“I had Susan cook dinner for her for a week,” Bennett said. “She took meals to them, served it and cleaned up afterward.”
Cook also uses her other skills to organize busy families’ schedules and buy, wrap and deliver gifts on behalf of working professionals. She counts many happy clients and recipients when gifts arrive on time and looking lovely.
And you know that couch or television you’re having delivered, the one that will arrive between 8 a.m. and noon, the one that you’re supposed to take a half-day vacation to wait for? Cook can help you choose the decor and save you those vacation hours since she waits for the goods to arrive.
Right Hand Woman clients are charged by the hour. Cook’s services can be used on an occasional basis, as needed or booked for ongoing regular service at discounted prices.
Cook gets a lot of gratification when it comes to helping seniors and those who are disabled or have a disabled partner.
“I really enjoy helping them,” she said. “Some are in need of help with shopping for groceries, or simple and healthful meal preparation.”
Cook’s husband is very supportive of her business and reaps the benefits when she’s cooking at home. She has two grown children and parents who are in their mid 80s.
“If I weren’t around,” Cook said, “they’d need a Right Hand Woman.”
Learn more
Contact Susan Rose Cook at 425-315-2706 or righthandwoman@comcast.net.
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