Growing up, I wanted to be a doctor. I loved learning about how things work and helping people. I also love to read research articles and draw conclusions based on my reading. While I did not become a doctor I have used and honed those skills daily as I have raised and home-schooled children, gone to school, advocated for others, and supported my husband’s business. One of the best ways I have used my research skills is to understand allergens in foods, and how to replace them. This knowledge facilitated the development of Chani’s Donuts.
In 2022 I Graduated from Brigham Young University Idaho with a Bachelor of Science in University Studies with an emphasis on entrepreneurship and certificates in Business Administration and Business Management. I have been able to apply those skills to my business which serves top 10 allergen-free donuts. I love getting to step into the fun atmosphere of my shop and see people enjoy a good treat.
About Chantelle Harris
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
Steven and I have been married for 24 years. We have 3 amazing young adult children. Brokton works at the donut shop while attending college and learning how to fix his 1990 Toyota Pickup. Evelyn is studying neuroscience at BYU and recently had a paper published. Jenai is finishing her associate’s degree while working and creating amazing artwork.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I love getting to see people get a treat they can enjoy. As the owner of Chani’s Donuts, every day customers are surprised by how delicious a gluten-free donut can be. Many customers have been so excited to have a good donut they were literally in tears. We also have kids come in for their first donut. It’s great to see a kid who has been restricted by allergies get to have a treat and experience that others take for granted.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Learn to enjoy the few minutes of peace or contentment you get here or there. When my children were young, there was a lot of chaos. I learned to be grateful for the few happy or calm moments we had. I tried to make sure I ended each day talking about the good parts.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I look forward to seeing Chani’s Donuts grow. I would love to have other locations and bring treats and happiness to many more people. Chani’s Donuts can also be frozen and reheated in the oven or air fryer in under 10 minutes. I will be branching into avenues that can distribute the frozen donuts so many more individuals can have a tasty treat!
Chantelle Harris & Our Community
Q: What are a few of your favorite restaurants in our community?
I can’t eat anywhere they serve shellfish, so my restaurant choices are somewhat limited. I do like Islands, Long Island Mike’s Pizza, and The Village SD.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I’ve been involved with Tierrasanta for 2 years through the concerts in the park. I opened Chani’s Donuts next to Long Island Mike’s Pizza in October 2023. I have lived in Lemon Grove for 11 years and love the community members who jump in and help each other.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I love how interconnected Tierrasanta is. I have not seen this level of community anywhere else in San Diego!
Q: If you could choose anyone alive today and not a relative, with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would you meet for this lunch?
I love to meet new people in general. I don’t have one person I would like to meet, but I would love to get a chance to just go to lunch with a few good business people and just learn how they think.
For Fun
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
One of my favorite movies is It’s A Wonderful Life. It is filled with old and new memories for me. My favorite TV show is Dwight in Shining Armor. It’s whimsical and filled with humor.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I can’t roller skate well because I had to share a pair of skates with my sister.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Aside from my donuts, I would rate my shoes 10 out of 10. I only wear Rowans or BMX 114 from Vans. I can wear them for my 12-hour day and my feet will still be okay.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My husband and children inspire me to be better. They love me for me and I always try to mirror that love while shining it onto others.
Q: What community organizations and/or local nonprofits do you admire/support?
I appreciate all the work done by the Tierrasanta Concerts in the Park committee, they make sure the vendors are taken care of and the residents love the events.
Q: What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Enjoy the small moments and make sure you write them down.
Q: Finally, what three words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Shower, recliner, and bed
