Viola Swindell

Connect What is your signature dish?

It’s hard to narrow my signature dish down to just one thing because I love creating food that brings people together. I’m known for soulful comfort foods like baked ziti, fried chicken, candied yams, and homemade desserts, but recently my daughter becoming vegetarian inspired me to step outside my comfort zone and explore new flavors and healthier dishes too. From rich comfort meals to creative vegetarian options and desserts through Bling Queen Treats, I cook with love & creati

Who is your culinary inspiration?

My culinary inspiration comes from my grandmothers, who always kept their doors open and made sure everyone was fed with love. That taught me food is about comfort, connection, and community. I’m inspired by Carla Hall’s warmth and authenticity, Meghan Markle’s thoughtful style of hosting and gifting, and my daughter, whose vegetarian journey encouraged me to explore healthier foods and new flavors. As an Army veteran, mom, and entrepreneur, I cook with heart and purpose.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would invest in growing Bling Queen Enterprises, expanding my dessert and culinary brand, upgrading equipment, and creating a real kitchen workspace for content, catering, and community events. I also want to teach and inspire others—especially women rebuilding their lives and people starting businesses from scratch like I did. This opportunity would help me turn passion into legacy while creating stability for my family and future generations.