It all started with a table that ran out of room. Jordan Stuart of Ann Arbor was out for dinner with his family, including mom Breanne. When the fajitas arrived, they were faced with that classic predicament. You know how it is: some meals require a lot of components and a lot of space for everyone at the table. Stuart thought, “There’s got to be an easier way to do this,” and had the idea to elevate what was served.
Within a few hours after arriving home from dinner, he’d constructed a serving piece out of Styrofoam. Soon after, he was preparing design files. He was only 16-years-old when he decided to get a patent for the Totem Serve.
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While the patent sat in a drawer for a few years, the idea stuck around even while Stuart moved to Colorado, especially since meals together had been such an important part of family time growing up. It was a time for everyone to put their phones down and appreciate each other, good food and the effort that goes into making it.
“I wanted to bring thoughtful connection back to the table,” said Stuart, by offering a serving dish that brings things into view and reach of everyone.
Totem Serve launched this May. Today, at 21, he’s focused on day-to-day business like e-commerce and social media, while his mom handles direct sales. (She was retired but came back into business to help realize her son’s vision). They attend trade shows and events together to promote the Totem Serve, along with other kitchen essentials also sold through the company, including cookware, glassware and bakeware.
“We want to become an all-in-one kitchen essentials brand for people who want to cook smarter, eat healthier and have a nice aesthetic focused on the home cook, hosting and putting undivided attention on the table,” said Stuart.
Visit totemserve.com to see for yourself.
