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A podcast that spotlights the women reshaping the hospitality industry, breaking barriers, and carving their paths in the ever-evolving world of restaurants, food, and community.
Sara (00:36)
Today I am talking with Simone Saleh Lawson and Noelle Saleh, the lovely Saleh sisters of Sassool here in the Triangle area, which is a wonderful Lebanese restaurant. They have two locations, one in North Raleigh and one over in Kerry, right next to where I grew up.
They are new friends of mine. I'm so delighted to have had the chance to meet them. In today's conversation, we talk about the complexities of working in a family business and finding your own identity in that while navigating tension that naturally comes up. it really is the best, hardest thing.
Simone and I bonded about our shared experiences as moms and how we navigated taking ourselves away once we had the baby and then weaving ourselves back in.
And then of course we talk about their incredible event venue, the FigMINT Farm, out in Apex, where this fall they are hosting a wonderful series called the Dinner in the Pines series. the next available Dinner in the Pines is October 23rd.
In the year 2026 out in Apex. Please enjoy my conversation with Simone and Noelle.
Sara Abernethy (02:02)
I guess season was really good. It yeah, we love listening
SIMONE & NOELLE (02:05)
Well, thank you for saying that.
I did pay
Sara Abernethy (02:06)
to
SIMONE & NOELLE (02:07)
I don't know if you both are guilty of the thing where you're like, ideas all the time, all the time, all the time.
Sara Abernethy (02:07)
I don't know if you both are guilty of the thing where you're like, ideas all the time, all the time, all the time,
not afraid to start the thing, but then sometimes it's hard to follow through with the thing and then think through like, well, why are we doing this?
SIMONE & NOELLE (02:13)
Not afraid to start the thing, but then sometimes it's hard to follow through with the thing and then think through like, well, why are we doing this?
Sara Abernethy (02:20)
That's the thing we have to work at, I think, the most. Like, most intentionally is the full execution. Because I think we both, and us, know, like, being sisters, being around the same age, being, starting really kind of around the same time in food, and like,
SIMONE & NOELLE (02:20)
That's the thing we have to work at at the most. Most intentionally is the full execution. Yeah. Because I think we both, and us, being sisters, around the same age, being, starting really kind of around the same time in food and like,
Sara Abernethy (02:36)
I mean, we do have to intentionally focus on the full execution constantly.
SIMONE & NOELLE (02:36)
Yeah, we do have to intentionally focus on the full execution constantly.
Because we have so many ideas, and when we get an idea, we feed off each other, and it's great. There's no problem in those ideas, or in creating those ideas. No, it's great. It's the best part. Yeah, both.
Sara Abernethy (02:41)
because we have so many ideas and like when we get an idea we feed off each other and it's great. There's no problem in those ideas or like in creating those ideas. yeah but when
you have to so many moving parts as well
it's not just like we can focus on this project you know there's like
SIMONE & NOELLE (03:00)
I
Sara Abernethy (03:01)
a fire at the restaurant or like just something an employee quits or yeah exactly.
SIMONE & NOELLE (03:02)
I know. Or the health inspection is here. like.
Sara Abernethy (03:06)
But I think also it's like the it's like the
legwork is time consuming, it's exhausting, it's tedious. Once you have it, go from idea to actual project or initiative or event or whatever. And then you have to bring everyone in and then you have to communicate. And yeah, that's the toughest thing is communicating to every
SIMONE & NOELLE (03:26)
The state is communicating to every...
Sara Abernethy (03:29)
single person. Because somehow it seems like they never get it. They never get it. Or you always miss a handful of important people. And then they're like, I don't.
didn't know or why didn't you tell me you know like I'm like oh my god like it was not intentional I was just doing a thousand other things and focusing on the idea so yeah
SIMONE & NOELLE (03:51)
Your outfit matches the painting behind you. And I can't, it's so beautiful.
Sara Abernethy (03:53)
It's meant to be. I
did no prior creeping at all. had no idea that painting was behind me.
SIMONE & NOELLE (03:59)
It's so beautiful. And then I need to look at your wedding ring. Wow.
Sara Abernethy (04:08)
picked it out myself. I mean, of course you would.
SIMONE & NOELLE (04:11)
What do you call that shape of stone?
Sara Abernethy (04:14)
Now that you're asking me, I'm having a brain fart. Yeah. Yeah.
SIMONE & NOELLE (04:16)
Because I've never seen it. It's like a rhombus.
It looks like something out of a... Seriously? Oh, that's so cool.
Sara Abernethy (04:20)
It looks like something out of It's called a lozenge cut. seriously? Mm-hmm. They got real creative.
What does this remind us of? So you are Raleigh ladies.
SIMONE & NOELLE (04:28)
a lozenge. So you are Raleigh ladies
You're Raleigh girls. So you grew up here. Yes and where'd you guys go to school not college but high school middle school high school.
Sara Abernethy (04:33)
You're Raleigh girls? Yes. So you grew up here? We were born here. And where did you guys go to school? Not college, but high school. We
went through Catholic school. So we went to Cathedral, and then we went to Cardinal Gibbons.
SIMONE & NOELLE (04:46)
Okay.
And what year? Who's older? Are you the eldest? Okay. Yeah.
Sara Abernethy (04:50)
I am. am. That's always the question. And I'm like,
of course she's older. Like she's more mature. Come on. I'm wearing the yellow glasses. everyone,
SIMONE & NOELLE (04:59)
And then...
Sara Abernethy (05:01)
everyone asks. Everyone asks. And so many staff people think I'm older.
SIMONE & NOELLE (05:03)
And so many staff people think I'm older.
Why? Do you think that is? I have no idea. I think I'm thicker and so my face is more round. Sure, sure. That makes you look youthful, really. You look youthful regardless.
Sara Abernethy (05:07)
I have no idea. think I'm thicker and so I have more, my face is more round. think fat makes you look youthful, really. Well, you look youthful regardless,
like, I don't know. think it's, I don't know. You look like you have more of a free spirit,
SIMONE & NOELLE (05:24)
I don't know, you look like you have more of free spirit.
Sara Abernethy (05:26)
I think, with the cool tattoos. think it's the Do you have a cool sweater on?
SIMONE & NOELLE (05:30)
You have a cool sweater on with
spiders on it, right? have cool glasses. Yeah,
Sara Abernethy (05:32)
Yeah, spiders. I'm a goth girlie at heart.
SIMONE & NOELLE (05:35)
yeah.
Sara Abernethy (05:36)
Yeah, I think maybe that like brings in the like, I'm younger vibe. I don't know. Five. Close to the age? No. Well,
SIMONE & NOELLE (05:40)
Yeah. Okay, and how many siblings are there? Five. Okay, close in age? No. No. Why are you on?
Sara Abernethy (05:50)
our youngest brother is 19 and I'm 38.
there. Cool. So Catholic school. All of you. All five of you. Yes. And now I'm an atheist. You know, I husband went through Catholic school and...
SIMONE & NOELLE (05:52)
there. Cool. So Catholic school. All of you. All five of you. Yes. Wow. And not even atheist. You know, my husband went through Catholic school and
he says he will never go to church again because
he's like, I've done it.
Sara Abernethy (06:07)
He's like, I done it.
SIMONE & NOELLE (06:10)
I filled my quota of mass.
Sara Abernethy (06:09)
They do drill it into you. I've filled my quota. I think it was
wonderful for structure. It was wonderful for the family feeling. Really just feeling like you have a tight-knit community early on, which I feel
SIMONE & NOELLE (06:16)
feeling, you know, like really just feeling like you have a tight-knit community early on. Yeah.
Sara Abernethy (06:23)
grateful for. But yeah, once you're done with middle school, and then if you have to go through high school to it, it's like, OK, I'm good. Yeah, it was easy to focus on the school.
SIMONE & NOELLE (06:34)
to focus on the school.
Like there wasn't a lot of...
Sara Abernethy (06:36)
Like there wasn't a lot of,
like I never went to a party in high school or anything like that. She was a cheerleader, so we had different experiences.
SIMONE & NOELLE (06:42)
She was a cheerleader, so we had different experiences. I don't know how people pull Maybe
it's easier when you're one of five I could not pull it off going to the frolics. I would get caught. Like, there was just no way. think I went to one total frolic in high school, and I was so nervous that I was there that I couldn't even crack a beer.
Sara Abernethy (06:52)
Like there was just no way. think I went You do eventually get caught. think I went that total frolic in high school and I was so nervous that I there that I couldn't even like crack a beer.
Yeah, no, let me say this. I went to parties, but I was the shy person at the party that was brought by my really cool, pretty popular friends. like
SIMONE & NOELLE (07:11)
Sure.
Sara Abernethy (07:12)
I was a kind of a spectator and I did not partake in a lot of this stuff. Just letting everyone out there know. I was just curious, did we as Raleigh girls ever...
SIMONE & NOELLE (07:16)
No, no, no, it's all good. It's all good. I was just curious if like, did we as Raleigh girls ever
cross paths? I feel like we probably did. Being close in age.
Sara Abernethy (07:23)
I feel like we probably did. mean, like being close in age
and I don't know, just there's not a lot of like, exactly, exactly. Today's a good day. Yeah. did all five of you work in the store? No.
SIMONE & NOELLE (07:28)
We were meant to meet. I'm so excited to meet you both. I'm so excited. did all five of you work in the store at some point?
Because both of you did. Who got out of it?
Sara Abernethy (07:40)
There's one one lucky
lady that did not know one of our one of our sisters was just like adamant from the beginning I'm not I'm not doing it. So she's a teacher. She loves being a teacher really a really wonderful teacher Yeah, yeah, but everyone else like Noelle and I from the beginning that's how we would see my dad And so we would go, you know on weekends to work with him as a four years old five years old six years old
SIMONE & NOELLE (08:01)
Sure. Sure.
Sara Abernethy (08:08)
so then the sister right under us is the one that was like heck no I'm having nothing to do with this and then our other sister she got involved in high school, know as like a cashier or customer service for some weekend money and then our brother kind of same thing
SIMONE & NOELLE (08:15)
sister she got involved in high school you know as like a cashier or customer service for some weekend money and then our brother kind of same thing
Sara Abernethy (08:23)
I mean, our brother still is just freshly out of high school, now he's kind of rising in the ranks. He's a manager now. He's actually doing a wonderful job, but everyone except
SIMONE & NOELLE (08:23)
I mean, our brother still is just freshly out of high school, He's 19. He's a manager now. He's actually doing a wonderful job, but everyone except.
Sara Abernethy (08:32)
the very middle child has worked. Four girls and one boy. That's exactly the same as my mom. Really? My mom's one of five. Four girls, one boy. Wow. Is the boy the youngest? No, the boy's the middle. Oh, okay.
SIMONE & NOELLE (08:35)
So it's four girls and one boy. That's exactly the same as my mom. My mom is one of five, four girls, one boy. Yes. No, the boy's the middle.
Sara Abernethy (08:45)
the boy was the last one.
Wow.
SIMONE & NOELLE (08:49)
No!
Sara Abernethy (08:52)
Now we're done. so you were in the store as you were probably as soon as you could work. Yes. Because you wanted to hang with your dad. Yes. you doing all the things? you?
SIMONE & NOELLE (08:54)
So you were in the store as, when you were, like probably as soon as you could work. Because you wanted to hang with your dad. What were you guys, were you doing all the things? you?
Sara Abernethy (09:03)
We were packing spices. Doing the cashier too though. We had to step on step stools. the cashier.
SIMONE & NOELLE (09:07)
Yeah.
Sara Abernethy (09:10)
Pack bread back then so back then he was with
SIMONE & NOELLE (09:11)
So back then he was with.
Sara Abernethy (09:13)
Neomond And they had a huge bakery operation and so we had lots of things like packing the pita bread
SIMONE & NOELLE (09:15)
bakery operation and so we had lots of things like packing the pita bread.
Sara Abernethy (09:19)
That we could do and of course the cashier they pack all their spices into containers that they sell in the market That was a big job for us Pricing they used to use the handgun with it. I mean we actually for some of the things we still use a handgun but the entire market was handgun, you know, and you have to go through the little spreadsheet and figure out and
SIMONE & NOELLE (09:23)
spices into containers that they sell in the market that was a big job for us pricing these we used to the handgun but the entire market was handgun you know and you have to go through the little spreadsheet and figure out
Sara Abernethy (09:38)
Yeah, I it was an all day experience. And then we walked away with a good $3. It was $10. She always got paid more than I did.
SIMONE & NOELLE (09:38)
yeah it was was an all-day experience and then we walked away with a good three dollars sure sure
okay you're in high school you're in Catholic school then you both go to State right and we're
Sara Abernethy (09:52)
Okay, you're in high school, you're in Catholic school, then you both go to state, right? were,
at the time, did you feel like that was your moment to sort of separate and spread your wings and find your individuality?
SIMONE & NOELLE (10:01)
At the time, did you feel like that was your moment to sort of separate and spread your wings and find your individuality,
both of you? didn't you both go to state? We did.
Sara Abernethy (10:10)
Didn't you both go to State We did,
but I was on the six-year path and Simone
SIMONE & NOELLE (10:14)
six-year path.
Sara Abernethy (10:15)
was on the three-year path. We did end up actually having one class together, which we didn't
SIMONE & NOELLE (10:19)
Aww.
Sara Abernethy (10:20)
realize until we both walked in and I was like, my God.
SIMONE & NOELLE (10:23)
Hey girl!
Sara Abernethy (10:24)
was like a dream made. You always look up to your older sister like, I wish I could be in some of her classes, hang
SIMONE & NOELLE (10:29)
of her classes hangin'
Sara Abernethy (10:30)
with her, and then it finally happened. I was like, this is so awesome. Did you guys live together? No. No, that was my time to like,
SIMONE & NOELLE (10:34)
Do you guys live together at all? No. Yeah.
Sara Abernethy (10:39)
when I really started going out in Raleigh and making friends. I used to hang out at Cup of Joe for all day. That's where we found you. That was my spot. Yeah, no I
SIMONE & NOELLE (10:44)
Me too! That's where we found each other. That was my spot.
Sara Abernethy (10:50)
used to go and hang out before I could drink and go to bars. I just sat at Cup of Joe all day. Yes! Which one? The Hillsborough Street location. Great. Yeah, I frequented both.
SIMONE & NOELLE (10:53)
Yes! Yes! Which one? Great. Yeah, I frequented both.
And then occasionally we go to the third place back when it was open at night. know?
Sara Abernethy (11:03)
Yeah, know when when cup of Joe
would close and then we still wanted to hang out so we would drive over to third place. Yeah
SIMONE & NOELLE (11:08)
Yeah, there it is. There it is.
What I really want to know is did you... When did you know that you wanted to go into the restaurant? Like was it something... I'm sure it's different for each of you.
Sara Abernethy (11:12)
you when did you know that you wanted to go into the restaurant like was it something I'm sure it's different for each of you
but was it something that you kind of always knew you wanted to pursue or was there sort of a arrival of it separately after school
SIMONE & NOELLE (11:23)
But was it something that you kind of always knew you wanted to pursue or was there sort of an arrival of it separately after school where
you're like, this is the calling?
Sara Abernethy (11:32)
This is the calling.
Well, I mean, I guess we never really talked about it with each other when we were that age. for me, I mean, it was just like, I got so
SIMONE & NOELLE (11:41)
I got so.
Sara Abernethy (11:42)
much out of working with my family. like you get so much out of it.
SIMONE & NOELLE (11:46)
like you get so much out of it
and so like I never imagined myself doing anything else and there was a short time where I like kind of explored that possibility of like what
Sara Abernethy (11:48)
And so like I never imagined myself doing anything else. And there was a short time where I like kind of explored that possibility of like, what
would I do? But I never had an answer for like, what would I do if I didn't work in the restaurant with the family? Because I don't think my heart was in it. Like my heart was with Neomond and then with Sassool. So it didn't make sense to go anywhere else for me.
SIMONE & NOELLE (11:57)
or for like what would I do if I didn't work in the restaurant with the family because I don't think my heart was in it. Like my heart was with with me and Mond and then with the school. it didn't make sense to go anywhere else for me.
For me, I think I had.
Sara Abernethy (12:11)
For me, think I had,
throughout college, had a lot of, options that kind of flew through my brain. I wanted to do something in entrepreneurship. That's what I went to college for. I had always been wanting to do some kind of business. I kept feeling pulled.
SIMONE & NOELLE (12:14)
you a lot options that kind of flew through my brain. I wanted to do something in entrepreneurship. That's what I went to college for. I had always been wanting to do some kind of business. kept feeling pulled
to like, my dad is a businessman and he's always been one of my role models. Our culture is very tight. The Lebanese culture is very tight. I became very attached to Lebanese culture.
Sara Abernethy (12:28)
to like, you my dad is a businessman and he's always been one of my role models and our culture is very tight. The Lebanese culture is very tight. I became very attached to the Lebanese culture,
Lebanese food, and it just felt so much a part of me.
SIMONE & NOELLE (12:41)
just felt so much a part of me.
So still kind of thinking, what am I going to do? I?
Sara Abernethy (12:42)
So still kind of thinking, what am I going to do? I
did my final business plan on a boutique hotel in downtown Raleigh. So it wasn't totally like doing social with my dad type thing. That's where my heart is. No matter what, I'll think I'll always do
SIMONE & NOELLE (12:49)
business plan on a boutique hotel in downtown Raleigh. So it wasn't totally like, know, Restaurants. You know, type thing. But that's still hospitality. Yeah, oh yeah, that's where my heart No matter what, think I'll always do
Sara Abernethy (13:02)
hospitality from here to the time that I die.
That was an you Yeah, yeah. But I think that it kind of started taking form because my dad started talking about, well, you guys are graduating in a semester. You know, I'm thinking of doing something solo. And so we were like.
SIMONE & NOELLE (13:05)
That was in you, always. But I think that it kind of started taking form because my dad started talking about, well, you guys are graduating in a semester. I'm thinking of doing something solo. And so we were like,
at least for me, was like, OK, this is being shown to me. This is an opportunity to immediately start doing some type of entrepreneurial, opening a restaurant from scratch.
Sara Abernethy (13:23)
At least for me, was like, okay, this is being shown to me. This is an opportunity to immediately start doing some type of entrepreneurial, know, opening a restaurant from scratch
with my dad. So there's another plus with my sister, another plus, and we just get to make it our own. so it was kind of right timing, I think, that it like spoke to me. And I was like, you know what? Yeah, let's go all in. And then we started programming the POS on our days like after school or after class.
SIMONE & NOELLE (13:33)
with my dad, so there's another plus with my sister, another plus, and we just get to make it our own. so it was it was kind of right timing. I think that it like spoke to me and I was like, you know what? Yeah, let's go all in. And then we started programming with EOS on our days like after school or after class
at NC State. And that's history. Because were you guys also working through school at the store? Yeah.
Sara Abernethy (13:51)
at NC State and that's history. yeah, I three jobs during. I had one.
Simone's an overachiever. She's like, she could be president or take over the world if she wanted to, but. Yeah, spread a little positive vibes, but.
SIMONE & NOELLE (14:02)
She could be president or take over the world if she wanted to, but. Well, the world could use you, my friend. His friend will call you a friend. yeah. And then working with your family,
I mean, I have not done it
Sara Abernethy (14:16)
Done it.
SIMONE & NOELLE (14:17)
in the way you have, but I do feel like I have sort of a lens into
Sara Abernethy (14:20)
sortable lens in
SIMONE & NOELLE (14:22)
it. My experience is it's the best and the worst. It is the
Sara Abernethy (14:28)
It's spot-on
SIMONE & NOELLE (14:28)
best because
you, there is no deeper trust for me than with my husband, the person I've chose to hitch my wagon
Sara Abernethy (14:36)
and I chose to hitch my wagon.
SIMONE & NOELLE (14:37)
to for life. I see the best in him, he sees the best in me, right? and so much of being on this path is so vulnerable and so scary. And so to have that unconditional trust and backbone is huge.
Sara Abernethy (14:39)
see the best in him, he sees the best in me. and so much of being on this path is so vulnerable and so scary. And so to have that unconditional trust and backbone is huge.
But then it's also the worst because you don't talk to each other the way you would talk to a friend, a colleague.
SIMONE & NOELLE (14:55)
But then it's also the worst because you don't talk to each other the way you would talk to a friend, a colleague,
you know, a coworker. You talk to each other like, the dynamic that you have. And so, yes, Chris and I see the best in each other, but we also know where each other tends to struggle.
Sara Abernethy (15:05)
you know, a co-worker, you talk to each other like, the dynamic that you have. And so, yes, Chris and I see the best in each other, but we also know where each other tends to struggle.
SIMONE & NOELLE (15:19)
And sometimes it's very frustrating
Sara Abernethy (15:19)
And sometimes it's very frustrating to
SIMONE & NOELLE (15:22)
to be like, why can't you just fix the thing that's wrong with you? Why can't you just fix the thing that you're not so good at? And really the answer is like, you can't change anybody and you just have to, you have to work together and
Sara Abernethy (15:22)
be like, why can't you just fix the thing that's wrong with you? Why can't you just fix the thing that you're not so good at? And really the answer is like, you can't change anybody and you just have to, you have to work together and.
SIMONE & NOELLE (15:40)
pull the best out of everybody.
Sara Abernethy (15:39)
And yeah, all the best. Yeah, I
think I think you're so right in everything you said. I think that that like the weakness or the you you see the other person's faults or whatever. think in the end, over the long term, it that in itself, you being able to see their weakness ends up being your strength because you know how to navigate the dynamic so that you guys can still keep moving forward, you know, in a productive way is that you just kind of learn which turns to take strategically. But no, I
SIMONE & NOELLE (15:57)
so that you guys can still keep moving forward in a productive way. You just kind of learn which turns to take strategically. But no,
Sara Abernethy (16:08)
mean,
SIMONE & NOELLE (16:09)
I'll let Noelle talk on this, but definitely it is so hard. It's so fulfilling, so rewarding, but we...
Sara Abernethy (16:09)
I'll let Noelle talk on this, like definitely it is so hard. It's so fulfilling. It's so rewarding, but we
had probably four years when we were all in one location.
Like, you know, from day one where we had no idea. Like how to work with each other. We had no idea what that meant when we were all trying to have some type of leadership and have a voice. And it was really, really difficult. And I know that opening the second location actually helped our dynamic, but I think we also, you know, developed those individual roles, tried to at least after the first four or five years so that we all felt like we
SIMONE & NOELLE (16:26)
what that meant when we were all trying to have some type of leadership and have a voice. And it was really, really difficult. And I know that opening the second location actually helped our dynamic, but I think we also, you know, developed those individual roles, tried to, at least after the first four or five years, so that we all felt like we
Sara Abernethy (16:48)
had a specific direction that we could contribute in. And then we all came together to discuss things, but it
SIMONE & NOELLE (16:48)
had a specific direction that we could contribute in. And then we all came together to, you know, discuss things, but like...
Sara Abernethy (16:55)
just became more
SIMONE & NOELLE (16:55)
It just became more.
Sara Abernethy (16:56)
directionally focused. I mean, think that with any business partner, whether it's your family or not, you're going to have strengths and they're going to.
SIMONE & NOELLE (16:59)
I mean, I think that with any business partner, whether it's your family or not, you you're going to have strengths and they're going to
Sara Abernethy (17:06)
have different strengths. I think the best thing that we did is just learning to play to our strengths. And so we've kind of like divided and conquered. I, you know, I
SIMONE & NOELLE (17:06)
have different strengths. And I think the best thing that we did is just learning to play to our strengths. And so we've kind of like divided and conquered. I, you know, I
Sara Abernethy (17:16)
spearhead operations and I had the managers. Yeah, the manager. has the toughest job. But Simone is the face. Like she does our social media. She's the one talking at award shows and anything like that, because I hate it.
SIMONE & NOELLE (17:16)
spearhead operations and I had bless you. God bless you for having that skill. It's so hard. She does our social media. She's she's the one talking at award shows and any anything like that because I hate it.
Sara Abernethy (17:32)
I hate it. And so I'm so glad to pawn that off. But
SIMONE & NOELLE (17:32)
I hate it. And so I'm so glad to pawn that off.
Sara Abernethy (17:35)
I mean, you don't like, reprimanding the managers. I don't like drama. I'm happy to do that for you. And then like I also in 2020, I had my first son and so my role needed to change. And so I started doing kind of like I wasn't in the.
SIMONE & NOELLE (17:37)
reprimanding the manager. So I'm happy to do that for you. So in 2020, I had my first son and so my role needed to change. And so I started doing kind of like, I wasn't in the
back of the office by any means, but things that I could do from my laptop.
Sara Abernethy (17:52)
back of the office by any means, things that I could do from my laptop
on the days I needed to be home with him. So I rewrote all the training manuals and the SOPs and like we all of a sudden had these legit company documents that we needed for our foundation, but we had kind of just been mom and pop until then. And so it all kind of works well together. But I mean, you're right. when you're receiving constructive criticism,
SIMONE & NOELLE (17:57)
So I rewrote all the training manuals and the SOPs and like we all of a sudden had these legit company documents that we needed for our foundation but we had kind of just been mom and pop until then. And so it all kind of works well together. I mean, you're right. when you're receiving constructive criticism,
feedback, whatever you want to call it from your dad or your sister or even our mom. mean, she does books for us.
Sara Abernethy (18:18)
Feedback, whatever you want to call it from your dad or your sister or even our mom. mean, She does the books for us.
SIMONE & NOELLE (18:25)
It is extremely challenging because you see your dad. Your dad is talking to you. It's not your boss. It's your dad and it never changes to be totally honest, but you do start seeing them, I guess, more professionally. Well, there's a question. It's like, how does it shift from
Sara Abernethy (18:26)
It is extremely challenging because you see your dad. Your dad is talking to you. It's not your boss. It's your dad and it never changes to be totally honest, but you do start seeing them, I guess, more professional. I don't know. It's complicated. How does it shift from
SIMONE & NOELLE (18:46)
the parents are in charge and the hierarchy of the family to now you're all owners and they have to see you
Sara Abernethy (18:47)
are in charge in the hierarchy of the family to now you're all owners and they have to see you
to some degree as an equal voice at the table.
SIMONE & NOELLE (18:54)
to some degree as an equal voice at the table.
Sara Abernethy (18:58)
I mean I think that's the biggest struggle is you know we we have so much respect for our
SIMONE & NOELLE (19:00)
struggle is you know we we have so much respect for it.
Sara Abernethy (19:04)
dad and we definitely still let him lead the company like we respect so much
SIMONE & NOELLE (19:05)
still let him lead the company. We respect so much
what he says and his vision for the company, but I think he also realizes that we have a lot of experience and talents in things that he doesn't know how to post on social media. You know what I mean? And also employees- Or do the events that we do. Roll out things. are so different now. Management style is different now. How you used to manage people in the 90s, you can't
Sara Abernethy (19:09)
what he says and his vision for the company. But I think he also realizes that we have a lot of experience and talents in things that like, like he doesn't know how to post on social media. You know what I mean? And like, also employees- Or do the events that we do or- Or employees- roll out things or- Are so different now. Like management style is different now. How you used to manage people in the nineties, like you cannot
do that now or you will have an HR nightmare on your hand.
he respects that, we are
SIMONE & NOELLE (19:38)
he respects that, we are...
Sara Abernethy (19:40)
kind of the ones running the company now and we give him the respect to still create the vision for it. Yeah. He still guides the ship. And I think a lot of it has been time because those first four years, heck no. It's like, we had no credibility. We, couldn't really call shots, even though we're like, yeah,
SIMONE & NOELLE (19:43)
and we give him the respect to still create the vision for it. Yeah, he still guides the ship and I think a lot of it has been time because the first four years, heck no. It's like we had no credibility. We couldn't really call shots even though we're like.
Sara Abernethy (19:57)
we're managers and you know, like giving our input and it it's taken a while for us to.
SIMONE & NOELLE (19:59)
our input and it's taken a while for us to
Sara Abernethy (20:04)
prove ourself, quote unquote, as far as showing that we know what we're talking about and we can make good calls. That always helps when we decide something and we execute it and it ends up being a very positive or revenue producing move.
SIMONE & NOELLE (20:04)
prove ourself quote unquote as far as showing that we know what we're talking about and we make good calls. That always helps when we decide something and we execute it and it ends up being a very positive or revenue producing move.
Sara Abernethy (20:21)
Like, OK, there's a check. There's a point in our corner as far as like, yeah, we do know what we're
SIMONE & NOELLE (20:21)
Like okay, there's a check, there's a point in our corner as far as like yeah, we do know what we
Sara Abernethy (20:26)
doing. Yeah. And we've done several things like that. It's kind of accumulated. Over time. Yes. But I feel like you two, just growing up in the time we did, you're steeped in what the future of Sassool needs to be in a way that your parents aren't, just generationally. Not that they don't want it to thrive and succeed and continue forward. But I think that says a lot about them, that they are willing.
SIMONE & NOELLE (20:28)
several things like that. It's kind of accumulated. Over time. I feel like you two, just growing up in the time we did, you're steeped in what the future of Sassool needs to be in a way that your parents aren't just generationally. Not that they don't want it to thrive and succeed and continue forward, but I think that says a lot about them that they are willing
to yield some of that control over time to you.
Sara Abernethy (20:50)
to yield some of that control over time to you.
SIMONE & NOELLE (20:55)
It says a lot about all of you.
Sara Abernethy (20:56)
Yeah,
I mean honestly like we we work with a consultant every single week to work on the business relationship like like it is something we've
SIMONE & NOELLE (21:02)
relationship.
Sara Abernethy (21:04)
like actively worked on for Pretty much since the beginning Yeah, and it's been so helpful,
SIMONE & NOELLE (21:08)
ever.
Sara Abernethy (21:12)
because now I do feel like we have a really great dynamic or like better than ever, you know, but I mean it is it's the hardest. It's the hardest thing It also because it's not just our
SIMONE & NOELLE (21:17)
But I mean, it is, it's the hardest thing. It also, because it's not just our
Sara Abernethy (21:24)
dad but the company is really telling the story of his beginnings. Sassool is my grandmother's nickname and yeah and so a lot of the recipes are from her like figurative recipe book and we won't change from those recipes those specific ones so I think it's very personal for him so it makes it more difficult for this kind of evolution over time
SIMONE & NOELLE (21:24)
dad, but the company is really telling the story of his beginnings. Yeah. Sassool is my grandmother's nickname. I wanted to ask you about that. lot of the recipes are from her, like, figurative recipe book. And we won't change from those recipes, those specific ones. So I think it's very personal for him. So it makes it more difficult for this kind of evolution over time.
Sara Abernethy (21:46)
to where the restaurant is changing
SIMONE & NOELLE (21:48)
is changing
in good ways, improving in good ways, but also it is changing and that's, a little scary or you know. Of course. Of course. I always say, I always end everything with it's complicated, just, it's the way that life is because he has this beautiful history.
Sara Abernethy (21:50)
in good ways, improving in good ways, but also it is changing. And that's, a little scary or, know, yeah. So, yeah, it's, I always say, I always end everything with it's complicated, it's just, it's the way that life is because he has this beautiful history and
SIMONE & NOELLE (22:11)
and these beautiful beginnings and this culture and the food that goes with it and this story.
Sara Abernethy (22:11)
these beautiful beginnings and, and this culture and the food that goes with it and this story.
SIMONE & NOELLE (22:16)
mean, my mom has just written actually like the first part of his life story and she's about to publish it, which is gonna be so cool. like this history fixed story. And then we have the chance to take it and mold it in the way that our current customers, the current consumers are gonna enjoy it the most.
Sara Abernethy (22:16)
I mean, my mom has just written actually the first part of his life story, and she's about to publish it, which is gonna be so cool. But this history-thick story, and then we have the chance to take it and mold it in the way that our current customers, the current consumers, are gonna enjoy it the most. And...
Yeah, it's been a really beautiful process, but definitely like, you know, there's certain moments along the way where
SIMONE & NOELLE (22:37)
Yeah, it's been a really beautiful process, but definitely like, you know, there's certain moments along the way.
Sara Abernethy (22:43)
you're like, don't know if we should go that way or, know, that's way it's good. a team and we can kind of bounce ideas off of each other. Yeah. And I mean, I think especially when you look at our growth, like we've been open since 2011 and we only have two locations and like internally, that's like a constant thing with us. Like, should we do this? Should we do this? Should we do? And it's hard to marry everybody.
SIMONE & NOELLE (22:47)
This way it's good for a team and can kind of bounce ideas out of each other. Yeah, and I mean, I think especially when you look at our growth, like we've been open since 2011 and we only have two locations and like internally that's like a constant thing with us like should we do this, should we do this, should we do this. And it's hard to marry everybody's
Sara Abernethy (23:07)
ideas because like you said Simone and I are in a different phase of life we would love to grow
SIMONE & NOELLE (23:08)
ideas because like you said, like Simone and I are in a different phase of life. We would love to grow.
Sara Abernethy (23:13)
but my dad is in a phase where he's trying to retire and he's trying to kind of settle down and be stress-free and opening another location definitely doesn't lend to that you know so yeah yes
SIMONE & NOELLE (23:13)
But my dad is in a phase where he's trying to retire. He's trying to kind of settle down and be stress free. And opening another location definitely doesn't lend to that. So that's an interesting tension to have.
I want to take this in two specific directions right now. And I want to ask you about
Sara Abernethy (23:31)
in two specific directions right now and I want to ask you about
do you have kids you don't do you have kids you're unwinding yourself for maternity leave and then rewind
SIMONE & NOELLE (23:37)
You have kids. Do you have kids? You're unwinding yourself for maternity leave, and then rewinding
yourself back in.
But before I get to that, I want to ask about the moment where you expanded to Cary When was that? 2015. And how did you know it was time to take on a second store? Because
Sara Abernethy (23:50)
expanded to carry when was that 2015 and how did you know it was time to take on a second store
SIMONE & NOELLE (24:01)
going from one to two is the worst thing I've ever done.
Sara Abernethy (24:00)
Because going from one to two is the worst thing I've ever done.
was so hard.
SIMONE & NOELLE (24:06)
It was so hard.
Sara Abernethy (24:08)
Simone and my dad went to Cary and I was in Raleigh and it was just like, oh my god, what do I do now? I think it was a big moment. It ended up being a big moment of personal growth for all of us, big time. But I remember when we opened the first one, we had in mind we wanted to have another one. So that was already,
SIMONE & NOELLE (24:27)
So that was already.
on the horizon. That already the unofficial plan.
Sara Abernethy (24:30)
already the unofficial plan
that we had talked about. And I think once we got to a certain sales number, we would obsess about our sales number every single day. Are we going to get it? Are we going to get it? Yeah, I mean, we definitely still do. But it was like this high five
SIMONE & NOELLE (24:34)
once we got to a certain sales number, we would like obsess about our sales number every single day. We still do. Are we gonna get it? Yeah. We definitely, it's like this high five.
Sara Abernethy (24:46)
moment every day on the floor at the end of dinner. And I think once we consistently started getting
SIMONE & NOELLE (24:50)
started getting a
Sara Abernethy (24:52)
certain number or reach a certain threshold where my mom she you know again She handles the numbers and she was like
SIMONE & NOELLE (24:52)
certain number or reached a certain threshold where my mom she you know again she handles the numbers and she was like
Sara Abernethy (24:58)
I think we can do it so Didn't go without a lot of hesitation but and also the search the search took about at least a year and we found another spot and then in the very End of the process it got taken or it didn't go
SIMONE & NOELLE (25:00)
So didn't go without a lot of hesitation, but, also the search, the search took about at least a year and we found another spot and then at very end of the process it got taken or it didn't go.
Sara Abernethy (25:13)
through or whatever happened So I guess we were we felt like we
SIMONE & NOELLE (25:15)
So I guess we were, felt like.
Sara Abernethy (25:18)
were ready even before
we actually found our location. But I think it was a layered, a layered feeling. It wasn't like the location found you and you were like, got a job. Oh yeah, exactly. Exactly. That tends to be, yeah, that feels like what happens lately. Like where
SIMONE & NOELLE (25:19)
we actually found our location. But I think it was a layered, a layered feeling. It wasn't like the location found you and you were like, we gotta jump on that. exactly, exactly. That was my experience. That feels like what happens later. Like where...
Sara Abernethy (25:34)
someone is like, look, here's the perfect opportunity. We'd love Sassool to be here. Demographics look good. Everything checks the boxes you guys have mentioned. Let's do it. Or like, you should do it, you know? And then we're like, oh my gosh, should we do it? you people coming to knock me on the Yes.
SIMONE & NOELLE (25:37)
to be here, demographics look good, everything checks the boxes you guys have mentioned, let's do it, or like you should do it, you know? And then we're like, oh my gosh, should we do it? Do you have people coming to you knocking on the door like
here? Yeah, yeah. And wanting to sell, wanting us to sell the business to them and franchise it, which is also a tempting thing, but like. I'm sure, I'm sure.
Sara Abernethy (25:48)
Yes. And wanting to sell, like wanting us to sell the business to them and they'll franchise it and which is also a tempting thing, like.
SIMONE & NOELLE (25:59)
So what were your criteria for the second location?
Sara Abernethy (26:02)
for the second location.
Was it like looking for...
SIMONE & NOELLE (26:04)
Was it like looking for
a house and that like you have your wish list and then everybody has things that are important to them? What was like the non-negotiable stuff?
Sara Abernethy (26:06)
and that you have your wish list and then everybody has things that are important to them. What was the non-negotiable?
The non-negotiables was it had to be near neighborhoods and businesses as well as near a Whole Foods or Trader Joe's. So smart. If you notice, our Raleigh location
SIMONE & NOELLE (26:19)
as as near a Whole Foods or Trader Joe's. So smart. So smart. If you notice, our Raleigh location.
Sara Abernethy (26:26)
is next to a Whole Foods. Our Cary location is in the same shopping center as the Trader Joe's. Some of our most loyal customers are loyal customers of those
SIMONE & NOELLE (26:28)
is in the same shopping center as the Trader Joe's. Yeah, and some of our most loyal customers are loyal customers of those
Sara Abernethy (26:35)
establishments as well. But that's done by the design for us. Like we've aligned ourselves there. But I think with with a third location, like we're
SIMONE & NOELLE (26:35)
establishments as well. But that's done by the design for us. Like we've aligned ourselves there. But I think with a third location like...
Sara Abernethy (26:44)
kind of broadening our horizons a little bit like it's not so much about the Whole Foods or Trader Joe's anymore.
SIMONE & NOELLE (26:47)
so much about the Whole Foods or Trader Joe's anymore.
Sara Abernethy (26:50)
And more about like the
the checklist of like, can we get the square footage and does it have enough parking
SIMONE & NOELLE (26:52)
the checklist of like, can we get the square footage and does it have enough parking?
Sara Abernethy (26:57)
and does it have a loading dock and more like that. Cause now we're like, okay, our name is big enough that we feel like we could probably go anywhere and people will come to us potentially, hopefully.
SIMONE & NOELLE (27:00)
now we're like okay our name is big enough that we feel like we could probably go anywhere and people will come to us potentially.
Sara Abernethy (27:07)
Yeah. It's it's a strong hope. But yeah, we have
SIMONE & NOELLE (27:09)
I mean, it meets a need for sure.
Sara Abernethy (27:12)
customers that come from Garner from Clayton to the Cary location every day.
SIMONE & NOELLE (27:14)
to the Cary location every day.
Because I know it's, is, it is. That's sweet. When they tell you that and it's the Because like they have sought you out because they know your food is going to make you make them feel so good and they can depend on the healthiness of it or the freshness or whatever they get, whatever their thing is that keeps bringing them back and they keep coming. I mean, that's what I love about Lebanese cuisine is
Sara Abernethy (27:17)
Because they can't find out. is the most meaningful thing when they tell you that. And it's the truth. Because they have sought you out because they know your food is gonna make them feel so good and they can depend on the healthiness of it or the freshness or whatever they get, whatever their thing is that keeps bringing them back. And they keep coming. that's what I love about Lebanese cuisine is...
SIMONE & NOELLE (27:40)
It's equal parts comforting and so good for you. Like I said to you earlier, like I'm going to eat a vegetable today. and then leaves you feeling so satisfied and satiated in the best way without a food hangover.
Sara Abernethy (27:40)
It's equal parts comforting and so good for you. Like I said to you earlier, like I'm going to eat a vegetable today. and then leaves you feeling so satisfied. It does. And satiated in the best way without a food hangover
Yeah,
yeah, I feel like it also makes your mind feel better because it like
SIMONE & NOELLE (27:58)
Mmm.
Sara Abernethy (27:59)
it immediately gets like a shot of nutrients to your brain and like
SIMONE & NOELLE (28:01)
to your brain.
Sara Abernethy (28:03)
I don't know I always feel clearer after I eat a Sassool salad. The olive oil. It must be the olive all your stuff starts functioning better. Yeah, the myelination of your brain is just like on point. It's just lubricating. Yeah, it is. That's right. It's never a bad thing. So do you, so you think additional locations are on the horizon as well? In your...
SIMONE & NOELLE (28:13)
It's just lubricated, you know So do you so you think additional locations are on the horizon as well in your
As you are both at the helm you are open to more and somebody said this to me recently and it was so true they said having restaurant locations is like
Sara Abernethy (28:24)
As you are both at the helm, you are open to more. Yes. And somebody said this to me recently and it was so true. They said having restaurant locations is like
SIMONE & NOELLE (28:36)
having kids, you have one and you think you have it hard and you don't. Then you get two, you think you have it hard and you do, and then after three it just doesn't matter.
Sara Abernethy (28:36)
having kids. You have one and you think you have it hard and you don't. Then you get two, you think you have it hard and you do. And then after three it just doesn't matter.
I would love for that to be true. Me too. I I am personally done with my baby making.
SIMONE & NOELLE (28:48)
And I mean, I am personally done with my baby making.
And I have two. And I don't know, Chris and I are
Sara Abernethy (28:53)
and I have two. Yeah. And I don't know. Chris and I are.
SIMONE & NOELLE (28:58)
at odds on how our business grows. He is totally up for new locations and new concepts. Whereas I am definitely.
Sara Abernethy (29:01)
business grows. He is totally up for new locations and new concepts. I am definitely
motherhood has changed my perspective on this so much.
SIMONE & NOELLE (29:12)
motherhood has changed my perspective on this so much been like whoa
whoa whoa whoa whoa you know our our personal time is so limited and so precious why right
Sara Abernethy (29:18)
Personal time is so limited and so precious. Why right
SIMONE & NOELLE (29:22)
now why do we have to do that right now why can't we just make the most of the things that we have but for you guys and it sounds kind of like you're sort of there too with your dad like you're like ready to go and your dad's like
Sara Abernethy (29:25)
make the most of the things that we have. But for you guys, and it sounds kind of like you're sort of there too with your dad. Yeah, exactly. was going to say this is very similar.
SIMONE & NOELLE (29:35)
well
I don't like...
Sara Abernethy (29:36)
is. Yeah,
it's definitely a very kind of push and pull type thing going on. So
let me ask you about Mom.
SIMONE & NOELLE (29:41)
So let me ask you about mom
stuff. If that's okay. Okay, so, because I'm dying to know, there's no playbook for this, right? Like everybody does it differently. It's not like there's maternity leave, right? And this choice for me was great. And I want to know if it was the same for you. Like in some ways it was the most flexible and the least flexible. Again, it's like complete polar opposites.
Sara Abernethy (29:43)
Yeah, that is totally okay. Yeah, so I'm dying to know there's no playbook for this right? Right. I still feel brand new like it's day one. No, don't. Yeah. For this choice for me was great. Mm And I want to know if it was the same for you like in some ways it was the most flexible and the least flexible. Yes. We polar opposite.
Yeah. I'm so glad I was not
SIMONE & NOELLE (30:09)
I'm so glad I was not
an employee at the time because I felt like
Sara Abernethy (30:13)
Yeah. Yes.
SIMONE & NOELLE (30:16)
I had the onus and the authority to determine when I was going to fold myself back in. it's been different both times. I just feel like I'm doing it all wrong all the time. So after baby number one, how much time did you take after?
Sara Abernethy (30:17)
onus and the authority to determine when I was going to fold myself back in. Yes. it's been different both times. I just feel like I'm doing it all wrong all the time. So after baby number one. how much time did you take? Yeah, I took
about so.
SIMONE & NOELLE (30:33)
And it was 2020.
Yeah. Girl. I know. I know. So.
Sara Abernethy (30:34)
Yeah, I know. I know. So
I worked, we'll say I worked from home because I had my laptop and again, I was doing training material and all that stuff. anything I
SIMONE & NOELLE (30:43)
Anything I
Sara Abernethy (30:44)
could do from home is what I was doing with the exception of Friday meetings. I would go in and I would bring Maddox, my son, and
SIMONE & NOELLE (30:50)
Yeah.
Sara Abernethy (30:51)
then I would go back home and go kind of back to my office. Meanwhile, doing everything the mom needs to do during the day. had. Yes, I
SIMONE & NOELLE (30:55)
And did you, did you, did you want to do that though? Like did you want, did you feel itchy to sort of like be?
Sara Abernethy (31:03)
needed like
my core, needed to see my people. know,
SIMONE & NOELLE (31:04)
see my people.
Sara Abernethy (31:06)
Noelle my dad, but also just the whole team. Because the worst
SIMONE & NOELLE (31:09)
Cause the worst
Sara Abernethy (31:10)
thing about it is one, I had never done it before and I didn't know what I wanted. didn't know what. Yeah. Yeah. Meanwhile, you do feel
SIMONE & NOELLE (31:15)
You can't. You cannot know what you want.
Sara Abernethy (31:17)
so attached to these little perfect humans and you want that time to go so slowly. But it was was the it was the worst. I would just say it was the most complicated feeling because I didn't know whether I needed to be more in the restaurant or I needed to be more at home.
And one was my heart, one was my head, maybe. But they, yeah, definitely. I mean, yeah, big time.
SIMONE & NOELLE (31:36)
Maybe mm-hmm. don't know. They're both kind of your heart. Yeah, definitely So
Sara Abernethy (31:42)
I I did that for seven months and then I started doing more days at work where I was there like three days a week in store at my house, two days a week, and my mom would watch my son. And that happened, that was kind of the sequence until he was two and then we put him in daycare so that he could socialize and things like that.
SIMONE & NOELLE (31:42)
I I did that for seven months and then I started doing more days at work where I was there like three days a week in store at my house two days a week and my mom would watch my son and that happened that was kind of the sequence until he was to and then we put him in daycare and socialize and things like that,
Sara Abernethy (32:01)
was...
SIMONE & NOELLE (32:01)
It was
I still think about it and start to feel torn like did I do it right because I think I'll always feel that way I just I don't know whether it was the perfect thing for it wasn't perfect regardless, but was it the right thing for me business wise or Mom wise or whatever, but it kind of just
Sara Abernethy (32:02)
I still think about it and start to feel torn. Like, did I do it right? Because I think I'll always feel that way. I just, don't know whether it was the perfect thing for, it wasn't perfect regardless, but was it the right thing for me business wise or mom wise or whatever, but it kind of just.
SIMONE & NOELLE (32:18)
it just happened like one minute at a time one task at a time. It's just sort of unfolding
Sara Abernethy (32:18)
It just happened and it, you know, exactly. Yeah, take. Yes. Yeah, exactly. I just took it kind of week by week, day by
day and never wanted to take my focus off my child, but also really wanted to contribute. I think that was a lot of, know, my creative side.
SIMONE & NOELLE (32:34)
you know, my creative side.
Sara Abernethy (32:35)
wanted to contribute and feel like, yeah, I am still part of this team, even though I feel 30 miles away. You know, it was a wonderful thing, though, as far as my sister, my dad, my mom, they never
SIMONE & NOELLE (32:37)
I'm still part of this team, even though I feel 30 miles away. It was a wonderful thing, though, as far as my sister, my dad, my mom. They never
Sara Abernethy (32:48)
pressured me to come into work. think they also didn't know how to support me. And my dad was like, you take your you don't have to do a single thing. And sometimes like I'd start crying when he said that, because I'm like, I don't want to not do a single thing. Right? Yeah. Exactly.
SIMONE & NOELLE (32:48)
pressured me to come into work. I think they also didn't know how to support me. Sure. And my dad was like, don't have to do a single thing. And sometimes I'd start crying when he said that. Because I'm like, I don't want to not do a single thing. I want to do. I want to still be.
Sara Abernethy (33:04)
Yes. Yeah. Yes. Exactly.
SIMONE & NOELLE (33:04)
included. It's FOMO or it was for me. And then I was like, Oh, does that make me a bad parent because I'm having this FOMO? Shouldn't I
want to be completely absorbed in this baby? it was like a mental spiral. Yeah. From zero to six months, I've appreciated that time. could strap them on and take them wherever, right? And
Sara Abernethy (33:14)
completely absorbed in this baby. Yeah, it was like a mental spiral all the time. From zero to six months, I appreciated that time. could strap them on and take them wherever. And
I don't know if you were breastfeeding or formula feeding or combo or whatever, but it was possible. And then they start to get mobile and it becomes like, yeah, sticky. Exactly. How was it different for you with number two?
SIMONE & NOELLE (33:26)
I don't know if you were breastfeeding or formula feeding or combo or whatever, but like it was possible, right? And then they start to get mobile and it becomes like a little bit stickier. How was it different for you with number two?
Sara Abernethy (33:38)
With number two, I got to work quicker. Like I got back to work, yeah. I got back to work quicker. My mom, she was in the full swing of things being Nana. So she immediately, like I think it was seven weeks, she started watching my younger son Brody and Maddox at the same time before Maddox turned two and went to daycare. I mean at that point, I guess I felt more
SIMONE & NOELLE (33:44)
She was in the full swing of things being Nana. she immediately like I think it was seven weeks She started watching my younger son Brody and Maddox at the same time before Maddox turned two and went to daycare I mean at that point I guess I felt more
Sara Abernethy (33:58)
comfortable with the whole work mom juggle.
Yeah, I had done it before I felt like I never stopped after I got pregnant with my second one It was like it was a sprint all the time. I didn't have time to to rest But I did it with joy like it was I had so much energy into it and I was like, here goes here goes another one let's do this The second one definitely a more positive Experience and I think it was just repetition it helped
SIMONE & NOELLE (34:04)
Yeah, I had done it before. felt like I never stopped after I got pregnant with my second one. It was like, was a sprint all the time. I didn't have time to, to rest. But I did it with joy. Like it was, I had so much energy into it and I was like, okay, here goes, here goes another one. let's do this. the second one, definitely a more positive experience. And I think it was just repetition. It helped.
but still with Brody, my younger one,
Sara Abernethy (34:27)
But still with Brody, my younger one,
I still did kind of a part time, you two days at home, three days in the restaurant until he got to like alternating with my mom to a certain. I mean, he went to daycare when he was two as well. So I guess, yeah, I mean, I've been in and out on my computer at home trying to contribute and be the best mom ever. best ever. Right. What's what
SIMONE & NOELLE (34:30)
I still did kind of a part-time, you two days at home, three days in the restaurant until he got to like alternating with my mom. I mean, he went to daycare when he was two as well. So I guess, yeah, I mean, I've been in and out on my computer at home trying to contribute and be the best mom ever. the best ever. It's hard. Well, overachiever, right?
The second one was so hard. This last year has been the hardest year ever. And I think I was edging on some PPD as well because I remember I kept trying to explain how I was feeling and people.
Sara Abernethy (34:55)
I think things come into perspective after the second one yeah yeah I remember I kept trying to explain how I was feeling and people yeah
they would
SIMONE & NOELLE (35:09)
they would,
I just didn't feel like anyone was here. I felt like I was like shouting into the wind and everyone was trying to help by offering these solutions. And I'm like, I don't need your solutions. I, yeah. And also we had both children have been angel sleepers as infants. Thank God. Did you have a good sleep or no?
Sara Abernethy (35:11)
I just didn't feel like anyone was here. I felt like I was like shouting into the wind and everyone was trying to help by offering these solutions and I'm like, I don't need that. That felt like baby number one for me. Yeah. Yeah. And also we had both children have been angel sleepers as infants. That's good. Thank God.
one did not sleep until after two years old. Like that. That wrecked me. Wrecked me. Yes. So they were good as infants, but the
SIMONE & NOELLE (35:32)
Like that really wrecks you. So they were good as infants, but the
moment the second one came, the elder just like self-destructed in terms of sleep for a number of different reasons. And I'm like,
Sara Abernethy (35:40)
The second one came the elder just like self-destructed in terms of sleep. Yeah for a number of different reasons and I'm like
SIMONE & NOELLE (35:48)
I am unwell. Like I can't, it just felt like such a struggle because I was having the FOMO and yet I was unable to function or do anything because we weren't sleeping. It was torture.
Sara Abernethy (35:51)
it just felt like such a struggle because I was having the FOMO and yet I was unable to function or do anything because we weren't sleeping. It was torture. It's wild
how sleep will like tank you. It will ruin you. Yeah, that's good. Yeah.
SIMONE & NOELLE (36:02)
ruin everything. We're on a good path. I'm so happy to say since Thanksgiving, we're on a good,
consistent path. The whole goal for 2026 for me is like, just sleep. Just sleep. Just When you start thinking clearly because you actually have sleep, it's like you've been having something over your eyes forever. And then you're like, oh my god. It is sunny outside. I know. that was one factor.
Sara Abernethy (36:10)
That's wonderful. Yeah. Because when you start thinking clearly because you actually have sleep, it's like you've been having something over your eyes for like forever. And then you're like, my gosh, it is sunny outside. Like I just took on my sunglasses. Yeah, it's great.
SIMONE & NOELLE (36:29)
But the second one was I thought with the second baby, like, all right, I knew I only wanted two. This is it. I'm going to take this year and just like savor it. Because with Joie the first time around, she was born. And we opened Glass House Kitchen six months later. That is an experience I will never repeat. Only someone who has never done that before would do that. just the naivete is such a gift in many ways. It really is.
Sara Abernethy (36:33)
with the second baby, like, all right, I knew I only wanted two, this is it. I'm gonna take this year and just like savor it. Because with Joey, the first time around, she was born and we opened Glass House Kitchen six months later. That's experience I will never repeat. Only someone who has never done that before would do that. just the naivete is such a gift in many ways. It really is.
And then hindsight is 20-20. I would never do that again.
SIMONE & NOELLE (36:56)
And then hindsight is 20-20. I would never do that again. That was very
chaotic and stressful. So with the second one, I'm like, I just really want to take time and be present and be in it and savor these sweet little baby moments. And I just was bouncing off the walls, miserable. And thank God I had queued up those Her Seat at the Table episodes. So I sort of had some creative project to dip my fingers in when I had
Sara Abernethy (37:00)
stressful. Yeah. So with the second one, I'm like, just really want to take time and be present and be in it and savor these sweet little baby moments. And I just was bouncing off the walls. Mm hmm. Miserable. Yeah. Yeah. And thank God I had to queued up those her seat at the table episodes. So I sort of had some creative project to dip my fingers in when I had
mental spiritual capacity. Yeah.
SIMONE & NOELLE (37:25)
mental, spiritual capacity.
But then I had also worked myself out of a job at the restaurant, so there was nothing for me to go back to. And I thought that was going to be exactly what I wanted, and it was not what I wanted. But you don't know what you're
Sara Abernethy (37:29)
But then I had also worked myself out of a job at the restaurant. So there was nothing for me to go back to. Yeah. And I thought that was going to be exactly what I wanted. And it was not what I wanted. Yeah. You don't know what
you're going Right. And things change. mean, things change week by week as far
SIMONE & NOELLE (37:42)
going to need, and things change.
Sara Abernethy (37:45)
as what you want. It's just, I don't think anyone prepares anyone for motherhood. No. You know, like you can't. can't. The world doesn't know how to do that. Yeah. And you cannot. Nothing can prepare.
SIMONE & NOELLE (37:50)
No, they don't know how. The world doesn't know how to do that. And you cannot. can prepare
you for either one of these things, for being a mom or taking on your family business, truly. Nothing can prepare you fully, even though you grew up in the soup your whole life. You know? Yeah, until you do it. Until you do it, and you're like, oh my god. Until you're making the soup, and you're like, oh Jesus Christ.
Sara Abernethy (37:59)
things. No. a mom or taking on your family business. Right. Once nothing can prepare you. Yeah. Fully. though you grew up in the soup your whole life. Yeah. Until you do it. Yeah you didn't really know what the soup was made of. Yeah. Until you're making the soup and you're like Jesus Christ.
Yeah I feel better.
SIMONE & NOELLE (38:19)
Yeah, I feel better about
it now. I was surprised that I ended up putting my son in full-time daycare at six months, which I didn't expect to do. And then I was like, But a spot became available at Joie's daycare. And it was a moment of like, OK, we'll take this now, or spots at daycare are so hard to find or wait until an unknown time. So we went for it.
Sara Abernethy (38:22)
surprised that I ended up putting my son in full-time daycare at six months, which I didn't expect to do and then I was like, but a spot became available at Joey's daycare. it was a moment of like, okay, we'll take this now or spots at daycare are so hard to find or wait until another time. So we went for it.
I did the same kind
of thing where I was like, yeah, I'll do this. And I You just follow your heart as you go. Yeah. And like you said, your heart is your business and it's your kids and it's everything else in your life. Yeah. So one task.
SIMONE & NOELLE (38:44)
You just follow your heart as you go. Yeah. Yeah, and like you said, your heart is your business and it's your kids. Yeah. It's everything in your life. So one task at
a time, one hour at a time, it sounds like we're all doing that. So that's good to hear.
So the farm, the FigMINT farm, tell me about how that blossomed.
Sara Abernethy (38:56)
So that's good to hear. So the farm, the FigMINT Farm, tell me about how that blossomed.
there's two ways it blossoms. So my parents have always been very admirable of Mandolin that had a restaurant garden. And they, yeah, like exactly. And
SIMONE & NOELLE (39:06)
There's two ways it blossoms. So my parents have always been very admirable of Mandolin that had a restaurant garden. I mean, it's kind of the, it's very romantic. I really get it.
Sara Abernethy (39:18)
they would frequent there on their dates and they would talk about this restaurant garden and, and all this stuff. And they started thinking, what if we could do that on a small scale? Cause produce is our biggest bill by far in the restaurant. So no produce.
SIMONE & NOELLE (39:26)
small scale because produce is our biggest bill by far in the restaurant. Not labor? No. Wow.
Sara Abernethy (39:33)
yeah, I know. Well, I mean, given your cuisine. Yeah, it's a lot. Most of what goes through our doors are potatoes and.
SIMONE & NOELLE (39:35)
Well I mean given your cuisine, you know, most of what goes through our doors are potatoes and
meat, right? Different than your cuisine, which requires all this fresh produce.
Sara Abernethy (39:42)
Yeah, yeah Right. Yeah. Yeah. No, it's so produce heavy, but so they knew that
it was gonna be kind of a small or concentrated garden more for the the feel not for the money benefit and My dad also at the same time was looking for some type of investment some type of passive investment. So It
SIMONE & NOELLE (39:56)
and my dad also at the same time was looking for some type of investment, some type of passive investment. So event venue, event venue.
Sara Abernethy (40:07)
started as just the 22 acres of land this beautiful pine-filled
land and there was a pond and a kind of rickety shack.
SIMONE & NOELLE (40:17)
shack pavilion.
Sara Abernethy (40:18)
Pavilion
that looked like it was about to fall over and it had ant hills everywhere on dirt But they made the garden and we immediately started planting mint and my dad really dove into it This was something his dad did for Neomond had had a garden on the side of the restaurant and provided you know herbs and things maybe just for family benefit
SIMONE & NOELLE (40:25)
started planting mint and my dad really dove into it. This was something his dad did for Neomond. He had a garden on the side of the restaurant and provided you know herbs and things maybe just for family benefit.
Sara Abernethy (40:37)
at that point, but My dad kind of took
this beautiful role and I think he started feeling really fulfilled doing this and that was actually in 2018-2019
SIMONE & NOELLE (40:39)
this beautiful role and I think he started feeling really fulfilled doing this and that was actually in 2018-2019
Sara Abernethy (40:46)
And then we started gathering like for birthdays and and 4th of July and things like that under this kind of rundown pavilion out there and Over time we were just like we are here so much. It brings us so much joy There's so much space and you know, we we had that like, you know team think sessions where we're like and
SIMONE & NOELLE (40:46)
and then we started gathering like for birthdays and and 4th of july and things like that under this chouir pavilion out there and over time we were just like we are here so much it brings us so much joy there's so much space and you know we had that like know team think session where we're
Sara Abernethy (41:05)
what if we did this over there and we could do that over there and so it came to be that we were like Yeah, I think we should make it an event venue
SIMONE & NOELLE (41:05)
we did this over there and we could do that over there. And so it came to be that we were like, yeah, I think we should make it an event venue. When did you
buy it? What year? 2018. 2018. Yeah. OK. Yeah. So before the babies. Right. And before the
Sara Abernethy (41:15)
2018 yeah, yeah Right yes
SIMONE & NOELLE (41:20)
before. OK.
Sara Abernethy (41:21)
Oh yeah. But we didn't really start
promoting it until 2023. So we had our first event. A wash. it was like a personal haven
SIMONE & NOELLE (41:26)
So it was like a personal project for a long time.
Sara Abernethy (41:31)
for us. And my dad started building up the infrastructure
SIMONE & NOELLE (41:34)
structure.
Sara Abernethy (41:35)
of it, like, you know, putting a bathroom. Because before we didn't have a bathroom. Nitrogen. Yeah, exactly. Yeah. So, I mean, he started enhancing it. And then at a certain
SIMONE & NOELLE (41:40)
nitrogen pee and nature pee in the grass.
Sara Abernethy (41:46)
point we were like, you know, this is really nice. we could have people out here.
And with everything we kind of start slow and then after a while we got into a rhythm with it being a little slow and then he gave Simone the go-ahead to like put it on like event tech to and some different places Yeah Yeah, we had to be official and so we put it on all the rental sites and made us so Instagram and a Facebook and
SIMONE & NOELLE (41:53)
start slow and then after a while we got into a rhythm with it being a little slow and then he gave Simone the go-ahead to like put it on like event-tective and the nod and things like that and just like let's give it a try with it being official. Don't forget your mic honey. We had to be official and so we put it on all the rental sites and made us an Instagram and a Facebook and
then we kind of hit go like officially hit go. We did an influencer of
Sara Abernethy (42:18)
then we kind of hit go, like officially hit go. And we did an influencer event
in 2024. So it took us a whole year of being official, but not really pushing it that much. it was a soft launch. 2024, we did an influencer event. We came up with the Dinner in the Pines series. This was a Noelle and Simone like innovative idea. It's like our dream event that we would want to attend. We created it for other people. Tell me about it.
SIMONE & NOELLE (42:24)
took us a whole year of being official but not really pushing it that much. Soft launch. Yeah, it was a soft launch. 2024 we did an influencer event. We came up with the Dinner in the Pines series. This was a Noelle and Simone innovative idea. It's like our dream event that we would want to attend. We created it. Yeah. For other people. Tell me about it, Dinner in
the Pines series. Yes. Because it sounds glorious. It's so dreamy and
Sara Abernethy (42:46)
It's so dreamy and so
romantic. It's so we have it's three hours long. The first hour is like cocktail hour. And then I build a giant charcuterie table and we have an open bar. So people can just kind of explore the property and eat and drink. And then we call everybody into the pine groves and there's a giant table. We seat 80 people.
And there's a... all under like market lighting and the stars and within the pines. We time it for sunset so it's like super, super romantic. everybody eats together at this big table which we love because...
SIMONE & NOELLE (43:08)
And there's a- It's all under like market lighting and the stars and within the pines. We time it for sunset so it's like super, super romantic. everybody eats together at this big table which we love because
we feel like there's not a lot of opportunities for connection in this day and age and so having to In real life. Yeah. Having to sit at a table with-
Sara Abernethy (43:21)
We feel like there's not a lot of opportunities for connection in this day and age. so having to sit at a, yeah, having to sit at a table with random
people, maybe you're there with a date or a friend, but like, you don't know anybody else that you're sitting with and it kind of forces this, you know, group experience and you make conversation. We also do a family style.
SIMONE & NOELLE (43:32)
you don't know anybody else that you're sitting with and it kind of forces this, you know, group experience and you make conversation. And we also do a family style
Sara Abernethy (43:41)
service, so they're sharing the big platters, having again to like make that, connection, talk about the dishes together. And it's been a beautiful experience seeing so many people walk away and tell us, I met so many friends tonight, you know, and, and we don't assign seating, we allow them when they come to the welcome table, they take their name card and they
SIMONE & NOELLE (43:41)
service, so they're sharing the big flowers. Having again to like make that, connection, talk about the dishes together. And it's been a beautiful experience seeing so many people walk away and tell us, met so many friends tonight, you know, and we don't assign seating. allow them when they come to the welcome table, they take their name card and they
Sara Abernethy (43:59)
put it where they want. So it's very organic and
SIMONE & NOELLE (44:00)
So it's very organic and
it's been the coolest thing. And then the last hour of the evening, we light up the fire pit, we go close to the water. We've done a few different things. The first event, first two events, we did a floating lantern release, was gorgeous, but also easily out of control. So we stopped doing that. no way. Why was it? Does something light on fire?
Sara Abernethy (44:01)
It's been the coolest thing. And then the last hour of the evening, we light up the fire pit. We go close to the water. We've done a few different things. The first event, first two events, we did a floating lantern release, which was magical, but also easily out of control. So we stopped doing that. Yeah. If the wind, almost.
If the wind goes the wrong way, then it goes into trees and yeah, we've had a few close calls. Yeah. There was also a few people that were like, this is not good for the.
SIMONE & NOELLE (44:24)
Yeah, yeah, yeah, okay, okay. my gosh.
Sara Abernethy (44:30)
environment, even though they were biodegradable. I mean, like, I totally respect people's opinion. So we then we started doing the floating lantern release across the pond, which was equally as beautiful but more challenging because if you have no wind, it just they just get into the pond with an oar. Yeah, you start making your own. I started making my husband get
SIMONE & NOELLE (44:35)
then we started doing the floating lantern release across the pond, which was equally as beautiful, but more challenging because if you have no wind, you get into the pond with an oar and you start making your
Sara Abernethy (44:53)
in the water in like galoshes.
SIMONE & NOELLE (44:56)
Well, did you ever do the thing
in the pool as a kid with the kickboard where you like make the stormy water, but didn't matter? did the orb for a thing. Yeah, yeah.
Sara Abernethy (44:58)
the kid with the kickboard where you like make this. did do that, but we yeah, I guess we didn't get that creative. We did the oar for I think three times
when it was a dud with the wind. Push them with the oar, but even then, I mean, they go out a little ways and then they just go back to the edge. And I mean, people get the idea and they still liked it. But for our spring 2026 Dinner in the Pines series, we have hired a fire dancer.
SIMONE & NOELLE (45:13)
I mean, people get the idea and they still liked it. But for our spring 2026 Dinner in the Pines series, we have hired a fire dancer.
Sara Abernethy (45:23)
So it'll be really cool and people can just like enjoy the show and we don't have to get in the pond or light. of aligns with the smore, the fire pit and the smore station that we do. And it's just like we end with fire, which is cool. So we're trying to bring in some new elements because we now we have a lot
SIMONE & NOELLE (45:23)
So it'll be really cool if people can just like enjoy the show and we don't have to get in the pond. Yeah. And it kind of aligns with the smore, the fire pit and the smore station that we do. And it's just like we end with fire. Yeah, it's so cool. We're trying to bring in some new elements because now we have a
Sara Abernethy (45:41)
of repeat ticket buyers, which is so cool for them to be like, yeah, we loved it in the fall. Now
SIMONE & NOELLE (45:42)
Absolutely. This is our thing now.
Sara Abernethy (45:47)
we're doing this for spring. Yeah. And people come in, they celebrate birthdays. They'll book, you know, 12 tickets with
SIMONE & NOELLE (45:50)
celebrate birthdays, they'll book you know 12 tickets with
Sara Abernethy (45:53)
with all their girls and like we sing them happy birthday at the big table. Like it's been a moment, like so many moments of beautiful memories for me just even being one of the event coordinators, but I hope for the guests as well.
SIMONE & NOELLE (45:53)
all their girls. I love that. We sing them happy birthday at the big table. It's been a moment, like so many moments of beautiful memories for me just even being one of the event coordinators but I hope for the guests as well. Do they all sell out?
Sara Abernethy (46:07)
Yes, they sell out over a month in advance, which is so cool. Perfect. Yeah. So we're excited. This spring series, the elements we're bringing
SIMONE & NOELLE (46:07)
Yes. Great. Sell out over a month in advance. Great. Which is so cool. Perfect. Yeah so we're excited. This spring series where the elements were
Sara Abernethy (46:16)
that are new are the fire dancer at the end. Live music during cocktail hour. Right. Instead of just from the playlist. then.
SIMONE & NOELLE (46:20)
instead of just from the playlist. then that's
Sara Abernethy (46:24)
We're that's kind of one of our our goals for this year is we are seeking other amazing experience dinners out so that we can get some new ideas. So like in July. Tell. Yeah, in July we found
SIMONE & NOELLE (46:25)
kind of one of our goals for this year is we are seeking other amazing experience dinners out so that we can get some new ideas. So like in July, tell them. Please tell them.
Sara Abernethy (46:39)
a dinner in the creek in Nashville. So me and Simone and my parents actually as well,
SIMONE & NOELLE (46:41)
So me and Simone and my parents actually as well.
Sara Abernethy (46:44)
we're going to fly out to Nashville for 24 hours and attend that. And then there's another series called Outstanding in the Field. And they go seems like all over the world.
SIMONE & NOELLE (46:48)
There's another series called Outstanding in the Field. Yes. And they go, it seems like all over the world,
Sara Abernethy (46:54)
and they host these pop-up dinners. And so we're waiting for them to release their 2026 dates. And I think we're gonna attend one of those. And then we're also doing a like a food, like a full immersive Eat, Pray, Love tour in December, right? We were like, we're planning this year. Very unusual for
SIMONE & NOELLE (46:54)
and they host these pop-up dinners. And so we're waiting for them to release their 2026 dates. Yeah. And I think we're going to attend one of those. Yeah. And then we're also doing a full immersive Eat, Pray, Love tour in December. We're planning this year. Very unusual for
Sara Abernethy (47:15)
us. December we're going to Mexico and...
SIMONE & NOELLE (47:15)
December we're going to Mexico.
Sara Abernethy (47:19)
We're going to go to little farms and you tell more about it you found it. So it's this company called Culinary Backstreets and they do these guided tours all over the world. And there's one in Mexico City that my husband is from Mexico.
SIMONE & NOELLE (47:22)
So it's this company called Culinary Backstreets and they do these like guided tours all over the world. And there's one in Mexico City that my husband is from Mexico.
Sara Abernethy (47:33)
So, and there's also like, there's been so many Middle Eastern people that have immigrated to Mexico or to other South American countries. And so there's a lot of bleed over of flavors.
SIMONE & NOELLE (47:33)
and there's also like, there's been so many Middle Eastern people that have immigrated to Mexico. Really? other South American countries. And so there's a lot of bleed over of flavors.
Sara Abernethy (47:46)
So like shawarma and al pastor, it's like the same thing, different meats, you know, because the Lebanese people came to Mexico and they're cooking their shawarma and the Mexican people
SIMONE & NOELLE (47:46)
So like shawarma and al pastor, it's like the same thing, different meats. Totally. The Lebanese people came to Mexico and they're cooking their shawarma and the Mexican people.
Sara Abernethy (47:58)
are like, my God, great idea. And like, if I'm getting this wrong, nobody
cancel me but and so they created the al pastor and now it's like this huge Mexican food and a staple yeah it's so good yeah and yeah it is it is so
SIMONE & NOELLE (48:10)
Well the one you have coming up is Latin and Lebanese fusion right the dinner you have coming up later this month yeah
Sara Abernethy (48:16)
we're really excited about the dinner it's March 28th it's called Latin fusion in the pines because
SIMONE & NOELLE (48:22)
because
it is the first time that Simone.
Sara Abernethy (48:23)
It is the first time that Simone
and I will actually be doing the cooking. So at dinner in the Pines, it's the Sassool food.
SIMONE & NOELLE (48:27)
So at Dinner in the Pines, it's the school food.
Sara Abernethy (48:30)
Latin fusion in the Pines is like our first time showcasing our own food. Yeah. And you two are doing all the programming. Like this is your baby. Yes. Yes. It sounds amazing. It sounds it's going to be great. Yeah. I also think your instinct, not that I run the world, but
SIMONE & NOELLE (48:32)
time of showcasing our own food. And you two are doing all the programming like this is your baby. Yes. It sounds amazing. It sounds amazing. I also think your instinct, not that I run the world, but
I think your instinct in pursuing these more intimate, curated,
Sara Abernethy (48:51)
I think your instinct in pursuing these more intimate, curated,
SIMONE & NOELLE (49:01)
immersive
Sara Abernethy (49:01)
of
dining experiences is the future. Yeah,
SIMONE & NOELLE (49:01)
dining experiences is the future Say, same, say you want to say something.
Sara Abernethy (49:07)
I think that I mean overall I think people are craving good feelings you know regardless of whatever landscape we're talking about outside our doors and
SIMONE & NOELLE (49:13)
Sure. of whatever landscape we're talking about outside our doors. And I
Sara Abernethy (49:18)
I think that making memories, having beautiful moments that really mean something is something that will continue to be popular and grow in more popularity. As like, we're always on our phone, we're always kind of like go, go, go, know, tunnel vision on everything, we don't know when to stop. And when you make those moments for people to stop and
SIMONE & NOELLE (49:18)
think that making memories, having beautiful moments that really mean something is something that will continue to be popular and grow in more popularity. As like we're always on our phone, we're always kind of like go, go, go, you know, tunnel vision on everything. We don't know when to stop. And when you make those moments for people to stop and
Sara Abernethy (49:40)
take in some fresh air or inside, you know, you can have beautiful moments inside too, but just making...
SIMONE & NOELLE (49:40)
take in some fresh air or inside. You know, have beautiful moments inside too, but just making it
Sara Abernethy (49:47)
making it easy for people to make memories, I think is something that people will never get tired of. And people are spending their money more and more on experiences. I think, like, I mean, we're we are doing it because of what Simone said,
SIMONE & NOELLE (49:48)
easy for people to make memories, I think is something that people will never get tired of. And people are spending their money more and more on experiences. Yes. Yes. I think like, I mean, we are doing it because of what Simone said.
Sara Abernethy (50:02)
the world seems so hard for everybody,
SIMONE & NOELLE (50:03)
seems so hard.
Sara Abernethy (50:06)
for every part of the world. seems so kind of terrible.
SIMONE & NOELLE (50:08)
seems so kind of terrible
what I preach is we have to create our own happiness we have to create our own good and so this is like part of that like we're just trying to create some good yeah and I think even a couple years ago we felt like okay one the restaurants are doing great
Sara Abernethy (50:10)
What I preach is we have to create our own happiness, we have to create our own good. And so this is like part of that. Like we're just trying to create some good. Yeah. And I think even a couple of years ago, we felt like, OK, one, the restaurants are doing great.
with sales. have so many loyal customers. have so many, you know, like it's just, love it. Cutest crap. Yeah. Cutest crap right here. It's because people click their fake nails together and it's like, like clapping. Yeah. I feel so old all the time. And like, are
SIMONE & NOELLE (50:31)
I just learned about this. I'm doing a little motion with my hands that makes me feel like a tiny little crab. But this is apparently what people do now. They click that's what it yes it's like clapping like snaps. I know I know I know.
Sara Abernethy (50:50)
your employees like Gen Z or like just way younger? Yeah.
SIMONE & NOELLE (50:53)
Yes, they are and I forget that I have
ascended into the next chapter of life. So I will make these very millennial
Sara Abernethy (50:57)
chapter.
SIMONE & NOELLE (51:00)
references or like the other day I was trying to talk to somebody about sex in the city and they were like, no, just blank blank stare. And I'm like, what are you? What are you talking like? my God. But yes, I feel old all the time. But
Sara Abernethy (51:03)
city and they were like no right they give you that blank yes the blank stare yeah yeah this is what we get from our brother a lot too because he he is the the gen z generation or yeah it's it's an increasing thing but
SIMONE & NOELLE (51:19)
yeah, so the restaurants were doing well.
Sara Abernethy (51:19)
Yeah, so the restaurants were doing well.
Let's say they were humming, you know? And we're not looking, at least at that time, to expand to location three. So we're like, how else can we try to do something where we feel like we're growing
SIMONE & NOELLE (51:22)
say they were humming you know and we're not looking at least at that time to expand to location three so we're like how else can we try to do something where we feel like we're growing
Sara Abernethy (51:34)
and challenging ourselves? And that's when we really started thinking of the Dinner in the Pines series. And it has continued to be something that continues to grow.
SIMONE & NOELLE (51:34)
and challenging ourselves and that's when we really started thinking of the Dinner and the Pine series and it has continued to be something that continues to grow
while the restaurants continue to do pretty well and it's been our avenue as far as like okay we don't have a location three but we can focus on the venue and make these events and these experiences for people to also recognize the venue as something and so it's been just another outlet that has been so
Sara Abernethy (51:44)
while the restaurants continue to do pretty well. And it's been our avenue as far as like, okay, we don't have a location three, but we can focus on the venue and make these events and these experiences for people to also recognize the venue as something. And so it's been just another outlet that has been so fun
SIMONE & NOELLE (52:03)
And so challenging too. I think what's super cool about it also, yes to everything you've said,
Sara Abernethy (52:03)
and so challenging too. I think what's super cool about it also, yes to everything you've said.
SIMONE & NOELLE (52:11)
we think of Sassool as a lunch spot. Yes. And this is showcasing the community that your skill set expands into a course to dinner as well. You have that capability. It's naturally promoted our catering. Yes. It's promoted just the overall perception.
Sara Abernethy (52:11)
We think of Sassool as a lunch spot. Yes. And this is showcasing the community that your skill set expands into a course to dinner as well. You have that capability. It's naturally promoted our catering. It's naturally promoted just the overall perception.
the venue. mean, it's like so many people now want to host their own dinner in the Pines for their own group. So we had to create a rental package where you can pick this and this and this and you have your own dinner in
SIMONE & NOELLE (52:31)
So many people now want to host their own Dinner in the Fines for their own group. After they've experienced yours. can a rental package where you can pick this and this and this and you have your own Dinner in the
Fines. Does one of you act as events manager? I do. Yeah. Yes. Yeah, and events sales queen. Yes. Yeah, that's big. That's a big, that's a lot. That's a lot of work. Continuing to be challenging. That's a lot of work.
Sara Abernethy (52:44)
I do. Yes. Yes. Yeah. Like I said, continuing to be challenging.
We come from a family and a world where we're like, it's never good enough, you know, here we go. What else? I mean, it's everything has its goods and bads. But like for us, the restaurants are doing good. Now what else can we do?
SIMONE & NOELLE (52:59)
yeah. I mean, everything has its goods and bads. But like for us, the restaurants are doing good. Now what else can we do?
so FigMINT's doing good. And now, what else can we do? So she's like created this date night in the Pines as well where couples can go and just have their own little experience out there by themselves and like a little igloo. And it's for us.
Sara Abernethy (53:08)
And so FigMINT's doing good. And now, well, what else can we do? So she's like created this date night in the Pines as well where couples can go and just have their own little experience out there by themselves and like a little igloo. And it's forever
like what's next, you know? Yeah. And I think a lot of people in the restaurant industry or hospitality industry can really relate to that. It's always what's next because you can't you can't stand still.
SIMONE & NOELLE (53:24)
next. Mm-hmm. Yeah. Yeah. And I think a lot of people in the restaurant industry or hospitality industry can really relate to that. Yeah. Always what's next because you can't. yeah. You can't stand still.
You can never stand still because you know there'll be those competitors that creep up. get the edge and yeah you have to keep that edge. Yeah. While not going crazy.
Sara Abernethy (53:35)
You can never stand still because there'll be those competitors that creep up and they get the edge. yeah, you have to keep that edge while not going crazy. Right.
SIMONE & NOELLE (53:44)
There's a metaphor of the shark that if the shark stops swimming it will die.
Sara Abernethy (53:46)
shark that if the shark stops swimming it will die yeah
yeah exactly yeah like can't I was just gonna say it's good because you can balance each other
SIMONE & NOELLE (53:51)
So and so it comes naturally to some people and some people look at that and they're like are you okay? are you okay? But that's just natural I will know you have something to say go ahead In
theory
Sara Abernethy (54:06)
Yeah, we do the best we can.
SIMONE & NOELLE (54:09)
In theory, The dream,
the original dream when we moved back here, because I met him in California. And I was like, why don't you just look at the housing prices here in Raleigh Durham and see what you think about
that. So what got him hooked was this idea of,
Sara Abernethy (54:23)
So what got him hooked was this idea
SIMONE & NOELLE (54:28)
not only could we buy a house, but we could buy land.
Sara Abernethy (54:32)
and
SIMONE & NOELLE (54:33)
turn it into an event venue. That was the original hook for Chris Borrason that got him over here. And like I sort of alluded to before, for us, it wasn't necessarily that we were pursuing restaurants and we were called to restaurants. We were called to immersive in-person experiences. And we kind of didn't, we just said, okay, Universe, like, what does that look like? And both times the Universe was like, here you go. Do you want to dance? Here's this opportunity.
Sara Abernethy (54:33)
turn it into an event venue. That was the original hook. Nice. Morrison got him. It's awesome. Yeah. And like I sort of alluded to before, for us, it wasn't necessarily that we were pursuing restaurants and we were called to restaurants. We were called to immersive in-person experiences. Yeah. And we kind of didn't, we just said, okay, universe, like, what does that look like? Yeah. And both times the universe was like, here you go. Yeah. Do want to dance? Here's this opportunity.
Yes.
SIMONE & NOELLE (55:02)
And we said yes, and the first was turning over Boylan into Wye Hill and then what became Glass House Kitchen a few years later. But I still dream about this, I admit. I daydream about a
Sara Abernethy (55:02)
And we said yes, and the first was turning over boiling in the Y.O. and then what became Glass House Kitchen a few years later. But I still dream about this. admit I daydream about.
SIMONE & NOELLE (55:18)
beautiful flex. I think flex is really the big key for me. Outdoor space.
Sara Abernethy (55:18)
Beautiful flex. I flex is really the big key for me. Yeah outdoor space. Yes, like
wedding venue. Yes
SIMONE & NOELLE (55:25)
Wedding venue, yes.
And like, yes, the herb garden and the pop-up. I have all of these ideas for events, we should talk. And they don't make sense in my restaurants. These events do not, and I've tried them on and like the team gets, it takes it with a grain of salt, one of the best things about me is,
Sara Abernethy (55:27)
yes, the herb garden and the pop-up dinner. I have all of these ideas for events we should talk. Yes, we need to talk. they don't make sense in my restaurants. These events do not. And I tried them on and like the team gets, takes it with a grain of salt, one of the best things about me is
SIMONE & NOELLE (55:43)
constant ideas and like not nine out of ten are bad,
Sara Abernethy (55:43)
constant ideas. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. You're the visionary. Nine out of 10 are bad.
SIMONE & NOELLE (55:48)
but one out of ten is good and has legs on it. I'm so pumped for you in the the FigMINT
Sara Abernethy (55:48)
But one out of 10 is good. It's awesome. And has legs on it. I'm so pumped for you in the FigMINT.
SIMONE & NOELLE (55:56)
journey. It sounds like that's giving you both an outlet to express your creativity and your leadership and
Sara Abernethy (55:56)
journey it sounds like that's giving you both an outlet to express your creativity and your leadership and
yeah like your era right yeah this is
SIMONE & NOELLE (56:02)
like your era for Sassool
Sara Abernethy (56:05)
but this is a very
SIMONE & NOELLE (56:05)
but this is a.
Sara Abernethy (56:06)
much Simone and Noelle led thing yeah so it's fun to be able to kind of put our stamp or our brand on it what would you like love to see out there on the farm that sounds outrageous and impossible
SIMONE & NOELLE (56:09)
Yeah. So it's fun to be able to kind of put our stamp or our brand on it. What would you like love to see out there on the farm that sounds outrageous and impossible?
Sara Abernethy (56:20)
We want to see like, like
SIMONE & NOELLE (56:22)
Let's speak it into existence.
Sara Abernethy (56:24)
a off grid a frame where people can rent like they if they have a little yes, I want a little village though, not just one. Yeah, I want like four. Okay.
So we can rent it kind of Airbnb style, but it's still in the pines, quiet, immersed in nature. then also, if people are having an event out there, can book them together, and they can stay there the night. And it can also be booked separately, too. Just continue the little stream of revenue. But yeah, I we love the dreaminess of being immersed in nature. We love being
SIMONE & NOELLE (56:47)
together and they can stay there the night. Yeah, and they can also be booked separately too. Just continue a little stream of revenue. But yeah, I we love the dreaminess of being immersed in nature. We love kind of...
Sara Abernethy (57:00)
simple. It doesn't need to be crazy.
SIMONE & NOELLE (57:00)
being simple, know, like it doesn't need to be crazy.
You need to feel the nature when you're there. I think that's important as far as like my vision for it. But yeah, we've even marked the locations like within the pine forest so that it wouldn't conflict with the dinners or any other thing. Is it like glamping when you say A-frames? Yep.
Sara Abernethy (57:04)
feel the nature when you're there. think that's important as far as my vision for it. But yeah, we've even marked the locations within the pine forest. And we would have one there and one It won't conflict with the dinners or any other thing. Is it like glamping? Yeah, like
glamping. Like off-grid, meaning no electricity. But we would have battery-powered lights and stuff like that. So I think we both stayed in.
SIMONE & NOELLE (57:28)
stuff like that. like I think we both stayed in
cabins. I think you have without the electricity. I have kids.
Sara Abernethy (57:32)
Cabins, I you have without the electricity. I have kids.
I'm going to have some electricity in there. Yeah, but it's it's wonderful. You feel like you're
SIMONE & NOELLE (57:38)
Yeah, but it's wonderful. feel like
Sara Abernethy (57:41)
roughing it, but you're not at all. You're inside and you're comfortable. Yeah.
SIMONE & NOELLE (57:44)
I don't think that sounds impossible you
two I think that sounds very feasible very possible My husband works at FigMINT he was in construction and now he like builds all the things at FigMINT and so it's on his to-do list is that's the dream yeah
Sara Abernethy (57:48)
I think it does too. We are going to make it happen. My husband works at Figment. He was in construction and now he builds all the things at Figment. And so on his to-do That's the dream.
SIMONE & NOELLE (58:04)
cool well
Thank you both so much for your time. I adored
Sara Abernethy (58:08)
Thank you. This
SIMONE & NOELLE (58:10)
meeting you and I hope that we can be friends for real. And where
can people find you if they want to stay in touch with what you've got going on?
Sara Abernethy (58:16)
stay in touch with what you've got going on. Yeah.
we do a great job of updating our website a lot with events. So first I'll start with sassool.com and that's S-A-S-S-O-O-L.com
SIMONE & NOELLE (58:24)
S-A-S-S-O-O.
Sara Abernethy (58:27)
because no one can spell it right. But you'll find us on Instagram, Sassool Cafe, also FigMINT Farms underscore NC like North Carolina. We're on TikTok for both of them. Same handles. We're on X for Sassool and we're on Facebook for both of them.
SIMONE & NOELLE (58:29)
So Sassool Cafe, also figmentfarms underscore NC, like North Carolina. We're on TikTok for both of them, same handles. We're on X for Sassool, and we're on Facebook for both of them.
Sara Abernethy (58:45)
And
SIMONE & NOELLE (58:46)
You can also find the Sassool Sisters at Raleigh Foodie News on Instagram, where Simone and I do our own little food reviews of different restaurants.
Sara Abernethy (58:46)
You can also find the Sassool sisters at Raleigh Foodie News on Instagram, where Simone and I do our own little food reviews of different restaurants.
Yeah. We like to bring in, our restaurant brain, as well as our stomach to the restaurants. And then we do a quarterly food cast and we give our feedback from the restaurant owner perspective, but also from the consumer. So we try to bring in something a little unique as far as our feedback. I love it. I watched the most recent one yesterday and it screamed when
SIMONE & NOELLE (58:56)
Yep, we like to bring in, our restaurant brain as well as our stomach to the restaurants. And then we do a quarterly food cast and we of give our feedback from the restaurant owner perspective, but also from the consumer. we try to bring in something a little unique as far as our feedback. I love it. I watched the most recent one yesterday and it screamed when
Sara Abernethy (59:15)
you put her seat at the table on, and you mentioned that you were gonna we did. We were so excited. Screamed aloud. We've been so excited.
SIMONE & NOELLE (59:15)
you put her seat at the table on and you mentioned that you were coming on this podcast. Screamed aloud.
Sara Abernethy (59:24)
When we went to FAB last year, our goal was to meet you. Shut up. Really? This is kind of embarrassing to say, but I even saw you across the road in Charleston. You had these amazing chartreuse pants. You remember that day? And I said, oh my God, Noelle, there's Sarah. There's Sarah. And she was like, say something, say something. And I was like,
SIMONE & NOELLE (59:28)
Shut up! I'm gonna cry. Yes! I'm gonna cry.
Sara Abernethy (59:42)
no, I can't be weird.
SIMONE & NOELLE (59:45)
Oh my god. That's so amazing. Well, no, it's time. It's time. It's time. Well, thank you for being here.
Sara Abernethy (59:45)
And then I don't think we saw you after that but yeah, so we're excited to be here Thank
you so
much,