I just love the entire process of creating events, from the initial stage of meeting the client to the final guest departure. I get such a rush during the entire coordination process! I truly care about each and every client and it is so incredibly rewarding when they are thrilled with the outcome of their event.
Do you think your childhood may have influenced your passion and love for coordinating events?
I am the first-born of 5 children, so my natural tendency is to take control and lead. My father passed away when I was 17 so I had to learn responsibility at a young age. I didn't realize it at the time, but my mother did me a huge favor when she handed me her paycheck the first month after my father passed away and told me I had to budget the money to feed and take care of our family. It was an incredible lesson in management and responsibility. I approach coordinating events in the same way: I am responsible for managing and executing all aspects of the event in order to achieve a positive outcome.
What is it you are enjoying about the team at Creations in Cuisine Catering?
I absolutely love working side-by-side with Carrie Thoreson, the Sales & Events Manager. She is the BEST teacher who loves what she does and passes that passion and enthusiasm on to me. The entire team has been very welcoming and from day one has made me feel a part of the long established team. I feel as if I have a new family!
What new industry trends do you find to be particularly interesting?
Catering is so much more these days than just providing great food. It's about the entire experience. Chef Tony is not only a great chef but he also has a great eye for design so it's rewarding to work with the talented team in creating new ways of presenting our cuisine and new ways for guests to experience it. When it comes to weddings, I love the fact that weddings no longer have to be traditional or follow guidelines. Brides and grooms can do exactly what they want which is a fantastic challenge for us to "think outside the box!"
How do you spend your free time?
I volunteer at a memory care center in Surprise and have become so attached to the dear patients. And I am a lover of life! I play as much golf and tennis as I can. And I love going to music events, hiking, cooking, and reading. I am extremely open to new experiences and my goal is to have an awesome life!
