Ten Terrific Years

I just reached my 10-year work anniversary at the Puritan Backroom restaurant. Ten YEARS. That’s one entire decade. I cannot wrap my brain around that timeline and incredible milestone – wow!

I started this job in my early years of high school working as a busser. Little that I knew, my first real job would snowball into shaping and growing me into who I am today. My young busser self went on to turn 18 where I was able to transition and work up at the host stand. The host stand is where I blossomed in my adult years and trained to be a cocktail server and lead hostess, which I hold positions in to this day.

My fun fact to anyone local who didn’t know me was that I worked at the Puritan Backroom, in which peoples’ immediate responses were always how much they loved the chicken tenders, mudslides, and homemade ice cream. The Puritan Backroom is a staple in southern New Hampshire as it stands to this day celebrating being in business for over 100 years. Pictured below is the night of my 10-year work anniversary stopping in with my fantastic SNHU coworkers, and celebrating with an Almond Joy mudslide – my favorite!

The Puritan grew into being my second family. I believe that is why I truly never left after all these years even amidst balancing school and post-college full-time work responsibilities. Working in the restaurant industry for a decade has allowed me to enhance my customer service and time management skills. It inspired me to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Communication, and currently I am in pursuit of earning a Master’s degree in Communication. Bringing smiles and joy to those around me are some of my core qualities. Knowing that I can positively impact someone’s first impression walking in to dine with us, and last impression as they walk out to leave is a huge honor.

I have been able to work with such outstanding managers and coworkers, who to this day I call some of my closest friends. We truly grew up together over the years. I’ve been able to be there for my Puritan family in high highs and low lows, and I have experienced the same support in return. We have each other’s backs and are such a strong force. I have also had the opportunity to connect with so many wonderful customers who I have the pleasure of knowing them on a first-name basis. The bonds created with loyal customers are unlike no other because if it were not for them, we would not be in business. Getting to greet and converse with them each time they come in while making them feel at home is such a heartwarming experience time and time again.

A major perk of the Puritan being so well-known across the country is that people from different states come to try out our drinks and food. Even celebrities and politicians stop in when they are in town. My most memorable experience was picking up a random weekday shift in college and to my surprise, Adam Sandler walked through the doors to dine with us that afternoon. On his way out, he took the time to chat with me and learn about what I was going to school for. He was down-to-earth, personable, and kind. He is from Manchester, NH so he feels right at home whenever he visits. He even used to work at the Puritan when he was younger. I vividly remember him saying to me: “You are going to do great in all that you do. I just know it.” Those encouraging words as a college student back then meant so much and still reign true to this day. Being open to new experiences, encounters, and conversations with whoever crosses your path is something worth implementing and striving in each day of your life. You never know what opportunity or connection a simple hello will lead you to.

Everyone who knows me associates me with the Puritan Backroom, and I would not have it any other way. The Puritan Backroom will forever be an integral part of my life and the memories and relationships created will truly last a lifetime.

Remember to stay humble and kind, always!

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xo –Jess