Hello!
I am Elexsis Caliskan, the proud Brand Founder of Mon Cheri. What is Mon Cheri? Who are we? And what do we stand for? These are the questions that have accompanied me throughout my professional journey, and I have answered them in various ways along the way. Knowing what to say and when, when to push and when to pull, has been ingrained in me through 20 years of rigorous professional training. Leadership has always come naturally to me until I was called to a different kind of leadership.
We all possess a given name and an inherited name. Each of us originates from somewhere, from someone who also came from somewhere and someone. I, too, have my roots in a specific place and person. My story is distinct, just as yours is. Embarking on my journey to Old Town Scottsdale, I encountered some of the most challenging moments of my life. Seeking solace, I turned to Old Town, placing my trust, confidence, and heart in the hands of people, experiences, and cities. I embarked on a quest to be understood, to be loved, and to find acceptance.
I purchased this building in October '22, and during the same month, my life underwent another significant change. Just as Mon Cheri began its process of rebuilding, so did I. The walls of Mon Cheri came down, and so did mine. The electrical system of Mon Cheri was redone, and so was mine. The plumbing of Mon Cheri was redone, and so was mine. When the walls were rebuilt, mine were too. As the finishing details are being chosen for Mon Cheri, so are mine.
Throughout both of our revivals, there has been a gracious hand ensuring that the work gets done while I continue to grow. It's like a microcosm in motion, as two entities undergo a complete transformation in preparation for what lies ahead.
In addition to this, I have faced abuse, neglect, addictions, eating disorders, racism, character assassination, depression & anxiety. These, coupled with my own mistakes, left me burdened with an overwhelming sense of shame.
Interestingly, as both Mon Cheri and I have gone through our respective journeys, there has been a guiding force ensuring that the work is accomplished while I continue to evolve. It is a testament to the transformative power at play when two entities embark on a path of renewal.
My transformation is a powerful testament to Jesus Christ. While I cannot claim to have been re-born as I was once an atheist, I can share that I was born on September 8th, 2023, in Fethiye, Turkey. I know that Jesus Christ is God, who walked this earth, lived a sinless life, sacrificed Himself on the cross to save me from my sins, and rose from the dead three days later.
Let's revisit the question: Who is Mon Cheri?
Let me begin with what we are not:
we’re not:
unkind
impatient
boastful
here serve the rich & famous
quick to anger
judgmental
prideful
or
self-serving
we don't stand for:
pride
anger
egotism
power
pain
envy
racism
sexism
or sexual exploitation
Imagine being born on 9.8.23, a 39-year-old woman with no family, no preconceptions of how to celebrate, and no understanding of our current calendar system. Now take it a step further. You've never witnessed the corruption of this world. You're an alien from a foreign planet, with a different agenda in mind - to spread love and acceptance.
A place where life is celebrated with purpose. We love our neighbors. We pray for those who persecute us, without judgment based on religion, skin color, the car you drive, or the way you look. We love all, as they are all made in His image.
At Mon Cheri, we find purpose in each season. We sow the seeds of growth in spring, fervently celebrate the resurrection of the Lord, honor our mothers and fathers with meaningful healing, and promote strong family values. We respect our founding fathers and pray for our leaders. We culture exchange with love, yet proudly salute our flag. We nurture future generations with care and consideration.
We promise to foster a culture where all who seek solace are accepted and loved. Join us as we embark on our inaugural four seasons with intent, purpose, strength, and a clear mission to spread the good news!
I may hold the title “brand founder”, but the true founder is Mon Cheri, My Dear, My Love, My Lord, My Savior, Jesus Christ.
