Our Story

The Beginning

I’m Janel Martinez, the founder of brightbites preschool catering. My story began when I was a preschool director struggling to find healthy, kid-friendly catered meals for growing schools. Out of necessity, I started cooking lunch for my students every day. Without a proper kitchen, I transformed our small food prep space into a functional kitchen using countertop appliances such as toaster oven, air fryer, slow cooker, electric skillet, griddle, blender, and microwave. Who needs a fancy kitchen when you've got random small appliances and sheer willpower?

I went to work, determined to make meals that my students would love. Before long, I was greeted with enthusiastic smiles and “thumbs up”, and the children who were bringing “home lunches” started insisting that their parents sign them up for “program lunches.”

Powered by smiles, “thumbs up,” and an endless supply of coffee, I went on a mission to create recipes and menus with love, creativity, and nutrition in mind.

When I was unexpectedly laid off from my position, the thing I missed most was the joy that I experienced preparing meals for the kiddos. Aware that there was still this gap in the catering industry, I wholeheartedly jumped in.

I created a new vision for my future. With a background in preschool administration and a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, I merged my two skill sets and set out with a simple mission to provide nutritious meals that creates excitement and supports growth.

Thank you for joining us on this journey. Let’s make every bite a bright one! 

Brightbites isn’t just a catering service— It’s my legacy, to leave a lasting positive impact on the next generation. My inspiration comes from my son, Dakota, my family, friends, and colleagues who continually support and encourage me to pursue my passions.

If you were to ask me what I enjoy most about this journey, I would say, it’s the little moments: the excitement of creating something new, the satisfaction of a positive review from a satisfied parent, and the confidence that comes from knowing that our little ones are getting the best nutrition possible!