Kelli Ferrell Net Worth
Kelli Ferrell is a multifaceted entrepreneur whose journey from fashion enthusiast to celebrated chef and reality TV star is as inspiring as it is remarkable. Born in Randallstown, Maryland, Kelli’s early life was steeped in a rich tapestry of cultural influences, thanks to her family’s roots in Louisiana and Maryland. This blend of traditions ignited her passion for both food and fashion, setting the stage for her diverse career.
In 2013, Kelli relocated to Atlanta to pursue a degree in fashion merchandising and design at Bauder College. However, her entrepreneurial spirit led her down an unexpected path. In 2016, she manifested her dream of owning a restaurant by opening Nana’s Chicken-N-Waffles in McDonough, Georgia. This establishment, inspired by her grandmother’s recipes, quickly became a local favorite, blending Southern comfort food with a modern twist.
Kelli’s visibility soared when she joined the cast of The Real Housewives of Atlanta RHOA in its sixteenth season. Her dynamic presence and candidness about her personal life, including her experiences as a single mother of four daughters, resonated with audiences, further cementing her status as a prominent figure in Atlanta’s culinary and entertainment scenes.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Kelli Ferrell’s estimated net worth stands at approximately $1 million. This financial success is attributed to her ventures in the culinary industry, media appearances, and entrepreneurial endeavors.
Income Sources
Kelli’s diverse income streams reflect her entrepreneurial acumen:
- Nana’s Chicken-N-Waffles: The cornerstone of her wealth, this restaurant has expanded to multiple locations, including a food truck, generating significant revenue.
- Cookbook Sales: Her publication, Kooking With Kelli: Collection of Family Recipes From Nana’s Chicken-N-Waffles, showcases her culinary expertise and contributes to her income.
- Media Appearances: Appearances on platforms like Food Network and OWN’s Food Fantasies have enhanced her public profile and provided additional income.
- Endorsements and Partnerships: Collaborations with brands and participation in events further bolster her financial portfolio.
Career Highlights
Kelli’s career trajectory is marked by several notable achievements:
- Culinary Entrepreneurship: Establishing Nana’s Chicken-N-Waffles, a restaurant that marries Southern comfort food with contemporary flair, has been a significant milestone.
- Media Recognition: Her appearances on Food Network’s Ultimate Thanksgiving Challenge and OWN’s Food Fantasies have showcased her culinary talents to a broader audience.
- Authorship: Publishing a cookbook that shares her family’s cherished recipes has allowed her to connect with food enthusiasts beyond her restaurant’s patrons.
- Reality TV Stardom: Joining RHOA introduced her to a national audience, where she candidly shared her experiences as a mother and businesswoman.
Assets
Kelli’s assets reflect her success and lifestyle:
- Real Estate: Ownership of multiple properties, including the Nana’s Chicken-N-Waffles locations and her personal residence, underscores her investment in real estate.
- Business Ventures: The expansion of Nana’s Chicken-N-Waffles into a food truck and potential future franchises indicates her strategic approach to business growth.
- Personal Belongings: Her public appearances often feature high-end fashion and accessories, indicative of her taste and lifestyle.
Liabilities and Debts
While specific details about Kelli’s liabilities are not publicly disclosed, her high-profile divorce from ex-husband Chuvalo Mark Ferrell involved legal battles over marital assets valued at $1.7 million. Such circumstances suggest potential financial obligations stemming from the dissolution of their marriage.
Net Worth Timeline
Kelli’s financial journey has seen significant milestones:
- 2016: Opened Nana’s Chicken-N-Waffles, marking the beginning of her entrepreneurial path.
- 2024: Estimated net worth of $1 million, reflecting the success of her restaurant and media endeavors.
- 2025: Continued growth in her business ventures and media presence, maintaining her status as a prominent figure in Atlanta’s culinary scene.
Comparison with Peers
In comparison to other reality TV personalities and chefs, Kelli’s net worth is modest. For instance, celebrity chef Amanda Freitag boasts a net worth of $4 million. However, Kelli’s diversified income streams and entrepreneurial ventures position her for continued growth and success in the industry.
Future Predictions
Looking ahead, Kelli’s trajectory appears promising:
- Business Expansion: Potential franchising of Nana’s Chicken-N-Waffles could significantly increase her revenue streams.
- Media Projects: Continued involvement in television and digital platforms may enhance her public profile and income.
- Product Lines: Launching branded culinary products could further diversify her income sources.
Personal Life
Kelli’s personal life is characterized by her role as a devoted mother to four daughters: Chasti, Chelsi, Chloe, and Chance. Her experiences as a single mother have been candidly shared on RHOA, resonating with many viewers. Despite facing challenges, including a high-profile divorce, Kelli remains committed to her family and business endeavors.
