Team members are truly at the heart of everything Sonny’s does and why we exist. It’s why, for this year’s Employee Appreciation Day (3/4), we wanted to highlight those who are doing exceptional work both at Sonny’s, as well as in the greater community.
Spencer Soloman
Role: Server
Location: New Port Richey, FL
Years with Sonny’s: 7
Spencer is all about building genuine relationships with his team. He knows it is important to listen and learn about those around you. One of his golden rules he follows daily is “Treat people the way you want to be treated.”
“Kindness is trying to put yourself in somebody else’s shoes. We can never truly walk a mile in somebody else’s shoes but if we just try and imagine, we gain a lot more empathy.”
Mariana Carrizalez
Role: Server
Location: Sebring, FL
Years with Sonny’s: 8 ½
Mariana helps us spread the spirit of BBQ by always lending a helping hand and giving our guests the best experience possible.
“Kindness is the smile you give each person you encounter. The “how are you doing today?” can go a long way. We never know what someone is going through, and it can make a person’s day.”
Thomas Collura
Role: Assistant Manager
Location: Sanford, FL
Years with Sonny’s: 6 months
Thomas spreads the spirit of BBQ by training his team to become better and reach their goals. He loves coaching them to success.
“They treat you like a family and really care about your needs. I am like a dad to most. I listen to them, and I make sure to hear them.”
Mikayla Mcdermott
Role: Server
Location: Palm Coast, FL
Years with Sonny’s: 4 ½
Mikayla looks forward to coming to work every day. She considers her team as an extension to her family and loves working by their side.
“Kindness is making sure I can brighten someone’s day. I might not be able to do much but if I can do anything even the smallest thing, I try my best to!”
Deborah Jordan
Role: Server
Location: Winter Park, FL
Years with Sonny’s: 7 months
Deborah enjoys spreading positivity through BBQ. She shares Sonny’s background story with new guests to give them the full BBQ experience.
“Guest satisfaction is my first love. Especially when it comes to taking care of our guests. Southern hospitality means being very attentive to the guests’ needs and being respectful, friendly and assuring a great, memorable experience.”
Shelly Wall
Role: Assistant Manager
Location: Baton Rouge, LA
Years with Sonny’s: 26
Shelly puts her team first every day. They call her Mama Shelly because she is always looking out for them. She is not only a manager, but she is also a friend to lean on for her team.
“Working at Sonny’s has inspired me to be a better person. Working here inspired me to go back to school to work harder and hopefully run my own store.”