Meet the Founders

We've called Rockport, Texas, our home away from home for many years and have recently taken the leap to plant more roots in this fantastic community.  We are thrilled to launch the only elevated pop-up PIK-NIK and Garden Party Event Planning services company in Rockport!  We specialize in luxury experiences and bring over 20+ years of entrepreneurial spirit to the table ~ literally ... we'll also be opening a Market + Deli + Wine Bar in April 2024.  Join our mailing list to receive the latest updates! 

Genevieve (Gen) Thompson, an Entrepreneur and Senior Executive in the restaurant, retail, and Natural Channel CPG Food and Beverage industry, brings over 20 years of demonstrated professional skills in corporate development, operations, sales, marketing, and management.   She has led start-up and emerging food brands and a fast-casual restaurant in strategic planning and development with key objectives and growth strategies.

Gen’s passion for natural foods kick-started at a very young age, eating farm to table, and with rich Latin heritage from Spain and Mexico ~ the love for authentic food was destined. 

Following the footsteps of her Bisabuelos, Gen began her entrepreneurship in the food industry when she founded and launched the Two Hot Mamas Salsa Co. brand in 2003.  After Two Hot Mamas Salsa Co. garnered critical acclaim for her “Latin with A Twist” recipes and national distribution, Gen began her next project … Two Hot Mamas Grill in 2009.

Next on Gen’s agenda … PIK-NIK in 2024!

Darrell Shirley, now retired, graduated from The University of Texas with a degree in Aerospace Engineering.  He spent all but five years of his prestigious career with Applied Materials (Austin) in multiple areas of the Engineering Department.  

Darrell also runs multiple successful businesses; Faultline Outdoors (Sports and Fishing gear) and DCS Holdings (Real Estate) which keep him active, along with his love of fishing in Rockport, Texas.