J's BBQ Ripon, WI Our Story
Our small, special needs, women-owned & operated business began in October 2014 in Ripon, Wisconsin. The name “J’s BBQ” was inspired by my biological son, Jadon~ whom suffered a stroke at birth in 2007, and later developed Cerebral Palsy & a Grand Mal seizure disorder. For anyone who knows Jadon, he is a light and a presence that exudes spirit, hard work, perseverance & kindness. He is a one-in-a-billion souls, who brings good people together, offers hope in difficult situations & always wants what’s best for others. Selfless, in other words. He IS what most strive to be, and we are honored to be his mothers.
J’s BBQ was given a “chance” by a local bank, on a $30,000.00 good Samaritan loan. From that opportunity, J’s BBQ blossomed into a community-based restaurant welcoming all walks of life with a friendly smile, a warm heart & food that made the tastebuds go wild! Within our first year, we started receiving state-wide catering inquiries that led to a booming catering business feeding National Guards throughout Wisconsin, as well as private, corporate & family events. J’s BBQ became a household name, a positive energy when you caught wind of the events we catered and the lives we touched. J's BBQ became respected and sought-after throughout the Midwest and beyond. We had created a mini empire, a registered trademarked brand, while proudly exemplifying how passion for the industry; and the undeniable commitment to provide for your family, can result in growth that exceeds your wildest dreams!
Our roots only helped facilitate our entrepreneurial spirit, passion and drive for the industry. Jen grew up in the Northwoods of Rhinelander, Wisconsin working in a prominent Supper Club kitchen and shadowing the art of some of the most talented chefs she’d ever known. Her education provided her with a Business and Sports Rec Management degree that only further propelled her ability to manage a high complexity kitchen, and the J’s team while encouraging, training and promoting a positive work environment.
I grew up moving around the country my entire life. My Father’s Corporate positions introduced us to food, people, places and cultures of every sort. I earned my Bachelor of Science Degree in Nutrition/Food Science, and later earned my Master of Science Degree in Human Nutrition. I applied life and educational experiences throughout the hospitality and restaurant industries, and it only further accelerated my love for service, innovative food, scratch recipes and public relations.
Collectively, Jen and I obtain over 50 years of experience and we believe it’s always proven to be our key to success. Being the mothers of the most amazing young man propelled our drive & passion to be our best in order to provide a lifeline and future for and with Jadon.
Our objective and ultimate goal was to create a respectable, recognizable brand that represented family, community, inclusivity, diversity & hospitality at its BEST! We would create a line of beloved products for the marketplace at large, that would provide a better balance for our special needs family. It’s 2023, and we are proudly and diligently working to build upon that goal!
We are dedicated to building positive relationships with manufacturers, co-packers, retailers, wholesalers & customers across the Midwest and beyond. We strive to make J’s BBQ a desired brand and product line throughout the foodservice industry & in homes across the Nation. We are forever grateful for the support, love and dedication of our customers, families, friends & team members. We would not be where we are today without each and every one of you!
J's BBQ Ripon, WI Gallery
J's BBQ Ripon, WI National Guard
Since 2014, J’s BBQ has the honor of providing meals for following
Wisconsin National Guard Cities & More as We Keep Growing:
J's BBQ Ripon, WI In the Community
