WRITTEN BY CHRIS RILEY
There’s no secret manual for how we should honor our parents, however, Larry Crockett, owner and CEO of Lorraine's Premium BBQ Sauce, may be onto something.
At a very young age the love of his mother was so strong that it not only led to his sense of comfort, but the enjoyment he found in her presence. So, to show his respect, he decided to name his brand after her.
“The sauce is named after my mother Ms. Agnes Lorraine Crockett using her middle name Lorraine, simply because I wanted to be sure to honor her while she is still alive. After all, I learned to develop the skills to create these sauces under her tutelage and guidance.”
Lorraine is a strong woman set in her values, so naturally, when Larry was 9, she expressed her desire for him to become a self-sufficient man – one that would always be able to take care of himself. And to equip him with the tools to do so, began teaching him how to cook, clean, wash and sew. Though, it was cooking that quickly became his favorite. And it was this that motivated him to create Lorraine's Premium BBQ Sauce in 2018.
SO YOU KNOW IT’S GOOD
Lorraine's Premium BBQ Sauce strives to provide customers with a healthier product and alternative to sugary sauces currently on the market. They understand the importance of good health, but also good flavor. That’s why they want to create one that’s perfect for whatever comes off the grill.
And though the brand is named after his mother, it still pays equal homage to his late father – Arthur Crockett. Larry took on the responsibility when he was 17 and fresh out of high school.
“I learned that seasoning was important. I also learned that you don’t season for yourself, you season for others. I learned this as I watched my father doctor up one of the sauces that we had.””
There weren’t many choices for BBQ sauce back in the day, so grill masters oftentimes put their own spin on the limited selection they had. after his father Arthur passed away, it was Larry that took on the responsibility to become the grill master in his family. A pride that still brings tears to his eyes until this day.
BBQ WITH A PURPOSE
The brand believes in encouraging young African Americans that they can accomplish anything. And teaching them the importance of asking for help when they need it. Because they want to see their community rise together, but also, see more small businesses that are owned by people that share their history.
And though they understand there is nothing easy about creating and running a small business, they believe the lessons learnt while navigating the hurdles and obstacles make it well worth it.
Lorraine's Premium BBQ Sauce is a local black owned business that offers a gluten-free product with no GMOs or high fructose corn syrup. And each bottle carries a logo that touts a timeless photo of Larry’s mother in high school – something that adds life and a classy look always worthy of compliments.
They currently do not have a storefront but are looking forward to purchasing a warehouse for their corporate offices, manufacturing and distribution. With that being said, their products can still be found many places around Michigan, as well as various pop ups that occur all year long. And like most businesses starting out, their journey has not been short on challenges. Though, they recognize this, and continue to put their trust in God.
BEYOND THE SAUCE
Sharing, caring, and being a company that truly walks the walk is something Lorraine's Premium BBQ Sauce rightfully prides itself on. They don’t just serve flavor to the community, but genuinely believe in the community and want to establish a deep-rooted connection in and around the metro Detroit area. To provide scholarships for trade schools and colleges for the youth, and to build housing for seniors as they participate in the revitalization of our communities in the city.
If you would like to learn more, be sure to check out their website and add their social accounts on Facebook and Instagram. They are always willing and ready to answer any questions.
Next time you’re at Rivertown Market, be sure to check out the selection from Lorraine's Premium BBQ Sauce in aisle 5 and give yourself a little more love per serving.