Charisse’s introduction into the local food industry
came through a suburban Philadelphia Farmers'
Market, where she served as the Market Manager for 7
seasons. During that time she grew the market to be
second largest in the Philadelphia area and had the
unique opportunity to work with local independent
food producers. The experience led Charisse to start
Lokal Artisan Foods.
In 2018, Charisse opened her French Toast Bites stand
in Philadelphia, and in 2020, became the first Black
woman to own and operate a food establishment in
Spruce Street Harbor Park and Cherry Street Pier on
Penn's Landing. Additionally, Charisse became the first
black woman in Pennsylvania with a signature craft
beer, "French Toast Bites Ale.” Additional products
brought to market include French Toast Bites Spice
and French Toast Bites Coffee and French Toast Bites Gelato.
Charisse earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Temple University’s
School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management
and in 2018, she enrolled in the MBA Food Marketing
program at Saint Joseph's University.