FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
1. **Quality Reflects the Price** My pricing reflects the **high quality of ingredients, the level of service, and the expertise** I bring to each experience. I use **premium ingredients**, ensure **seamless execution**, and offer **personalized experiences**, which all contribute to the pricing structure. 2. **Minimum Guest Count** For dinner parties and private dinners, I have a **minimum guest count of 6** guests. This allows for a cohesive and efficient experience, ensuring the event feels special and intimate while covering costs effectively. 3. **Per-Person Fees** Pricing for my **dinner parties** or **private events** starts at **$150 per person**, which includes custom menu creation, premium ingredients, and professional service. This pricing is designed to provide exceptional value for the quality and expertise that comes with the experience. 4. **Chef Fee** The **chef fee** is an additional cost of **$100 per hour**, and will depend on the duration of your event. This ensures that you are paying for my time and expertise in creating the perfect dining experience for you. 5. **Consultation Fees** I charge **$100 per hour for menu consultations**, which are required before finalizing any event details. This time is dedicated to creating a personalized, curated menu that matches your vision. All consultations must be scheduled in advance. 6. **Non-Refundable Fee** When booking services, there is a **non-refundable fee** to secure your reservation. This ensures that your event is properly booked and that my time is committed to your project. The **balance must be paid 14 days before the event**. 7. **Cancellation and Refund Policy** If you decide to cancel your event, please note that: - If canceled **14 days or more before** the event, you may be eligible for a **40% refund**. - Cancellations made **less than 14 days before** the event are **non-refundable**. 8. **No Haggling on Pricing** I do not engage in pricing haggling. The rates are set based on the quality of service, ingredients, and the personalized experience you’ll receive. I believe in **fair pricing** that reflects the value you’re getting. 9. **Exclusions** Keep in mind that **service fees**, **taxes**, and any **additional items** like decor or rentals (plates, glassware, etc.) are **not included** in the base price. These are separate costs that will be clarified during the consultation. 10. **Additional Services** If you’re looking for **bartending services**, **waitstaff**, or **rentals** for your event, these will be priced separately, depending on your event needs. Understanding these points will ensure that there are no surprises and that you are fully informed about what my services entail and how pricing works. My goal is to provide the best possible experience, which is reflected in my pricing structure.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Working with a new client is all about clear communication, collaboration, and setting expectations upfront to ensure we create a seamless and memorable experience. Here’s what the process typically looks like: 1. **Initial Inquiry** – When you reach out to inquire about services, I’ll gather some basic details to understand your needs—whether it’s for a private dinner, catering, or meal prep. I’ll ask about the event type, the number of guests, dietary restrictions, and preferred cuisine. 2. **Consultation and Customization** – After I have all the details, we’ll schedule a **menu consultation** (this is a paid service at $100 per hour). During this meeting, we’ll discuss your preferences, desired menu, and any special requests. I’ll create a custom menu that fits your vision, and we’ll refine it until everything is perfect. 3. **Proposal and Agreement** – Once the menu is finalized, I’ll send over a **proposal** that includes the full scope of services, along with pricing. We’ll also go over the **terms and conditions**, which include my non-refundable fee, balance payment schedule, and cancellation policy. 4. **Reservation and Confirmation** – I’ll hold your reservation for 24 hours with one follow-up. Once the reservation is confirmed and the non-refundable fee is received, your event is officially booked. Please note that I require **payment for the full balance 14 days before the scheduled event**. 5. **Finalizing Details** – About a week before the event, we’ll touch base to confirm final details—guest count, special requests, any last-minute changes, and the timeline for the event. 6. **The Event** – On the day of the event, I’ll take care of everything from **food prep to presentation**, ensuring that everything runs smoothly so you can relax and enjoy the experience. 7. **Post-Event** – After the event, I’ll check in with you for any feedback. I aim for continuous improvement, and your satisfaction is important. Throughout the entire process, communication is key. I pride myself on providing excellent service and creating personalized, high-quality experiences tailored to your tastes. If at any point the communication isn’t clear or timely, please note that I will **not entertain future bookings from clients who leave inquiries unanswered or fail to engage.**
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
My culinary expertise is built on a **strong foundation of hands-on experience, formal certifications, and years of professional work in the industry**. I was raised in the tradition of **Southern cooking, farming, and fishing**, where I learned the importance of fresh ingredients, hospitality, and feeding large gatherings with care and intention. Beyond my upbringing, I have over **a decade of professional experience**, including **10 years as a pastry chef**, where I honed my skills in baking, desserts, and refined techniques. Additionally, I hold certifications in: - **Mixology** – Crafting balanced, creative, and expertly paired cocktails - **Food Safety** – Ensuring the highest standards of cleanliness and food handling - **Bar Management** – Managing beverage programs and enhancing the guest experience - **Restaurant Management** – Overseeing kitchen operations, staff, and service execution These certifications, combined with my deep knowledge of **Creole, coastal Californian, and globally inspired cuisines**, allow me to create **seamless, high-end dining experiences**—whether it’s private chef services, catering, or curated supper club events. My background ensures that every dish, drink, and detail is executed with precision, professionalism, and passion.