From Struggling Shop to Success: Janel Prator’s Puddery Triumph After Keith Lee’s Viral Review
A Viral Moment Changes Everything
Janel Prator’s small pudding shop in Pearland, Texas, was on the brink of closure. Some days, she served only two customers. Then, everything changed with a single TikTok video from food influencer Keith Lee.
The Keith Lee Effect: A Viral Sensation
On November 23, 2023, Keith Lee shared a food review that would transform The Puddery’s fortunes. With 17 million TikTok followers, Lee’s endorsement became a lifeline for Prator’s struggling business.
The Path to Viral Success
- Prator made 13 previous attempts to get Lee’s attention
- Lee declared the strawberry banana pudding “the best he’s ever had”
- Millions of viewers discovered The Puddery overnight
From Near-Closure to Expansion
Before Lee’s review, The Puddery faced potential shutdown. Today, the business has:
- Expanded to a second location
- Increased daily customer traffic dramatically
- Gained national recognition
A Surprise $50,000 Grant Changes Everything
Keith Lee and Toast partnered to award Prator $50,000 through their “Little Things” campaign. She’s one of three restaurateurs selected for this special grant.
“This is an opportunity of a lifetime for a business like mine,” Prator shared.
Why Keith Lee Chose The Puddery
Lee’s selection goes beyond just great food. He looks for:
- Exceptional customer experience
- Unique restaurant energy
- Attention to small details
- Genuine hospitality
Behind the Scenes: Toast’s Mission
Kelly Esten, Toast’s chief marketing officer, explained the campaign’s philosophy: “It’s those little things that often set restaurants apart, not big marketing budgets or celebrity chefs.”
Prator’s Plans for the Future
The $50,000 grant will fund a complete remodel of The Puddery’s newest location. This investment represents more than just physical upgrades – it’s a testament to the business’s renewed potential.
The Power of Social Media Support
Prator’s story highlights how social media can:
- Rescue struggling small businesses
- Create unexpected opportunities
- Amplify diverse entrepreneurial voices
A Model of Perseverance
Before going viral, Prator:
- Persistently marketed her business
- Maintained quality despite low customer numbers
- Remained committed to her culinary passion
The Broader Impact
The Puddery’s success story matters because it:
- Supports Black women entrepreneurs
- Demonstrates the potential of community support
- Shows how personal passion can overcome business challenges
What’s Next for The Puddery
With newfound resources and recognition, Prator plans to:
- Remodel her new location
- Continue developing unique pudding recipes
- Expand her business model
- Inspire other small business owners
