Shani Porter, a native "Brooklynite," studied art beginning in middle school and continued at LaGuardia HS of Music & Art majoring in Fine Arts. She graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management from St. John's University. Upon her graduation, Shani Porter continued to work for a successful jewelry line in the Employee Relations department. Within a few short months, she began questioning her career path and searching for ways to pursue her lifelong passion for cooking.

Internalizing the age-old saying, "the proof is in the pudding", Shani traded her business suit for a chef's coat. She enrolled in the Culinary Arts program at The Institute of Culinary Education, where she perfected her natural talents. Shani graduated at the top of her culinary class and landed an externship at the elite Abigail Kirsch in New York City. She continued to build her resume with several more impressive boutique companies, including a long-term position as Sous-Chef for Celebrity Chef Vanessa Cantave...