Story by: Andranita Williams, Journalist
In the heart of Clarksdale, Mississippi, the Wicked Wings & Things food trailer offers more than just a meal—it serves up a slice of community and a story of resilience. Owned and operated by siblings Nikki and Jeremy Williams, the business has deep roots in their family’s culinary traditions and a strong partnership with the local nonprofit, Higher Purpose Co. “We grew up in a huge family,” said Nikki Williams, recalling the days when her mother, the eldest of 15 children, took on the responsibility of cooking for her siblings after their grandmother passed. “She cooked, cooked, cooked, and living in a house with a cook, you have no other choice but to eat and learn how to cook,” she added with a laugh. Though Nikki didn’t inherit the cooking gene, Jeremy certainly did. “Out of the five of us, Jeremy is the best cook,” Nikki proudly shared. Jeremy, on the other hand, humbly credits his upbringing. “I learned how to cook from my mom and stepdad,” he said. “Growing up in a household where both sides were involved in cooking, I realized I could turn my passion into a business.”
That business, Wicked Wings & Things, began modestly. Jeremy would post photos of his culinary creations on social media, and friends and family began asking for plates. What started as a side hustle out of their home soon turned into a legitimate operation. “We started with a small grill, and within a year, we bought the food trailer,” Jeremy said. By 2015, Wicked Wings became an official business, known for its signature Wicked Sauce and the popular Delta Boy Polish sausage dish. The pandemic, though a challenge for many, proved to be a pivotal moment for Wicked Wings. The siblings found themselves serving lines of customers from as far away as Atlanta and Houston. “During those hard times, we just kept pushing, and the community supported us,” Nikki said.
A crucial part of their journey has been their relationship with Higher Purpose Co., a Clarksdale-based nonprofit focused on economic justice and creating opportunities for entrepreneurs in the Mississippi Delta. “Higher Purpose is a huge piece of the heart of our community,” said Nikki. “They’ve helped small businesses like ours get up and running.”The Williams siblings express gratitude for the guidance and support they’ve received from Higher Purpose, particularly from CEO Tim Lampkin, who grew up in Clarksdale. “To see someone like Tim, who came from this area and is now helping transform it, is inspiring,” Nikki shared. Jeremy added, “They’ve been a huge help in funding and connecting us with the right people.”
Despite the ups and downs of running a business, what keeps the Williams family motivated is the support of their community. “It’s the relationships, the laughs, and the conversations with our customers that drive us,” Jeremy said. Nikki echoed the sentiment: “Without the community, there is no us.” As Wicked Wings continues to grow, the siblings remain committed to giving back and staying connected to their roots. “We look up to people like Tim and others in the community,” Nikki said. “They show us that even on the bad days, the good ones are worth the effort.”
In true family spirit, they also find time for humor amidst the hard work. “Jeremy’s the funny one,” Nikki teased. “And he’s always looking up to his big little sister.”
With heartfelt appreciation, the Williams siblings are focused on expanding their business while uplifting those around them. “We just want to say thank you to Higher Purpose, Tim Lampkin, and the entire community,” Nikki concluded. “Because without them, there would be no Wicked Wings & Things.” As their journey continues, Wicked Wings & Things is not just about delicious food—it’s a testament to family, perseverance, and the power of community in Clarksdale.
Check out the photos below.
