Ember D'or | Tallahassee | PLEASE READ THE PROFILE

Custom Quotes Every event is unique. Your final quote will depend on: Guest count Menu complexity and ingredient sourcing Service style (plated, buffet, stations, etc.) Staffing needs Rentals and decor add-ons (if applicable) Travel and delivery (for out-of-town events) Deposits & Payments A 25% deposit is required to reserve your date. Final guest count and full payment are typically due 7days before the event. We accept payments which are listed on our page. Discounts & Seasonal Offers We occasionally offer special pricing for weekday events, off-season dates, or repeat clients. Please ask about any current promotions during your consultation. Service Fees & Additional Costs A standard service fee is applied to all full-service events to cover staffing, coordination. Additional costs may apply for: Travel beyond our local service area Equipment rentals Extended service hours or last-minute changes Cancellations & Refunds Cancellations may be eligible for a partial refund; refer to the terms in the contract. Deposits are typically non-refundable due to planning and scheduling commitments, but we’ll always do our best to accommodate changes when possible.

1. Initial Inquiry & Discovery Your journey begins with a quick conversation. We’ll gather essential details like the event date, guest count, location, dietary needs, and your overall vision. Whether you're planning an intimate dinner or a large celebration, we tailor every detail to fit your needs. 2. Personalized Consultation Next, we could schedule a call or discuss through email or text to dive deeper into your preferences, favorite flavors, service style, and event flow. This is where the magic starts—we’ll start shaping your perfect menu and experience. 3. Custom Proposal & Menu Design Within a few days, you’ll receive a customized proposal that includes: A tailored menu Transparent pricing Staffing needs Optional upgrades like wine pairings or rentals We offer up to two rounds of revisions to make sure it’s just right. 4. Contract & Deposit Once you're happy with the proposal, we’ll send over a service agreement outlining all the details. A 25% deposit secures your date. 5. Planning & Coordination We stay in touch as the event approaches—finalizing guest count, confirming logistics, and collaborating with your planner or venue as needed. We’re here to make everything seamless. 6. Event Execution On the big day, our team arrives early to set up, prepare, and deliver exceptional service. From beautifully plated dishes to professional staff, we ensure everything runs smoothly—so you can simply enjoy. 7. Post-Event Follow-Up After your event, we’ll follow up to thank you, gather feedback, and—if you'd like—share a few behind-the-scenes photos. Many of our clients come back again and again, and we’d love to be part of your next celebration too.

My culinary foundation began in the world of fine dining restaurants, where I trained in high-pressure kitchens known for their precision, artistry, and attention to detail. It was there that I developed a deep respect for technique, ingredient quality, and the power of beautifully crafted dishes. From there, I expanded into the catering industry, gaining hands-on experience with large-scale event logistics, client coordination, and the ability to deliver consistent excellence in dynamic environments. Beyond formal work experience, I’m also self-taught—constantly learning, experimenting, and drawing inspiration from my travels, personal research, and dining experiences. I’ve visited over 40 Michelin three-star restaurants, which continues to influence the creativity and standards I bring to every event. This combination of fine dining, catering, and self-taught growth allows me to deliver refined, personalized culinary experiences with both elegance and heart.

My journey into catering began with a deep love for food and the joy it brings to people. I’ve always believed that a well-prepared meal isn’t just nourishment—it’s an experience, a memory, a way of connecting. Early on, I worked for a professional catering company, where I learned the importance of precision, timing, and service under pressure. From intimate dinner parties to large-scale weddings, I gained firsthand experience in what it takes to create seamless, memorable events. That foundation gave me the skills—and the spark—to eventually build something of my own. After years of refining my culinary craft, traveling the world, and immersing myself in different cultures and cuisines, I decided to combine my passion for cooking with my love for hospitality. That’s how Ember D'Or was born: a blend of fine dining, personalized experiences, and genuine connection. To this day, the look of satisfaction on a client’s face still gives me goosebumps. It’s a reminder of why I do what I do—to create something meaningful, memorable, and deeply personal through food. Today, I work closely with every client to bring their vision to life—whether it’s a private chef dinner, a corporate event, or a milestone celebration. Every plate tells a story, and I’m honored to help tell yours.

I’ve had the pleasure of working with a diverse range of clients—each with unique stories, tastes, and dietary needs. Whether it’s a cozy family celebration or a high-visibility community event, I bring the same level of care, creativity, and professionalism to every table. Clients I Commonly Work With Include: Local high-profile professionals and community leaders hosting private dinners, events, and celebrations Families with special or restrictive diets, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, low-FODMAP, and allergen-sensitive menus Clients with extreme dietary requirements, such as multiple allergies, medical-based restrictions, or custom protocols Private clients organizing milestone events like birthdays, anniversaries, and intimate home dinners Small businesses and local organizations seeking personalized catering for retreats, receptions, and client appreciation events Food lovers who appreciate global flavors, seasonal ingredients, and thoughtful, balanced menus Whether it’s an intimate dinner for two or a 200-guest celebration, my goal is always the same: to create unforgettable food moments, delivered with warmth, care, and refined execution.

One of my favorite recent projects was a private anniversary dinner for a local couple celebrating 25 years together. They wanted something intimate, meaningful, and beautifully curated—right in their own backyard. The couple had multiple dietary restrictions: one partner followed a strict gluten-free and dairy-free protocol, while the other was vegetarian with a soy allergy. I worked closely with them to craft a fully customized five-course tasting menu that felt indulgent and elegant without compromising their needs. Every element—from the amuse-bouche to the dessert—was made from scratch with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. We incorporated candlelight, elegant plateware, and personalized printed menus to elevate the evening. I also coordinated with a local florist and musician to create a full sensory experience. From planning to execution, the project took about two weeks: 3 days for menu design and revisions 1 week to source specialty ingredients and rentals Final 2–3 days for prep and execution Seeing their emotional reaction to the food and atmosphere was incredibly rewarding. Projects like these remind me why I do what I do—to turn meaningful moments into unforgettable memories, one course at a time.

Hiring the right caterer or private chef can make all the difference in your event. Here’s my advice to help you find the perfect fit: 1. Be Clear on Your Vision and Needs Before reaching out, have a basic idea of your guest count, dietary restrictions, budget range, and the type of experience you want—plated dinner, buffet, chef’s table, etc. The more details you provide, the easier it is to create a tailored proposal. 2. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions A good provider should welcome your questions. Ask about: Past events similar to yours How they handle dietary restrictions or special diets What’s included in their pricing Staffing, cleanup, and rentals 3. Look for Flexibility and Communication The best chefs and caterers are flexible but clear, and they communicate well from start to finish. If they’re responsive, ask thoughtful questions, and genuinely listen to your vision, you’re in good hands. 4. Consider More Than Just Price Cheapest isn’t always best—especially with food. Ask about ingredient quality, presentation, and service. You’re not just buying food; you’re hiring someone to help create memories. 5. Read Reviews or Ask for Referrals Look for feedback from previous clients or ask to speak with someone who’s worked with them before. Word of mouth is powerful in this industry.

To make the most of your consultation and ensure we create the perfect culinary experience for you, here are a few key questions to think through ahead of time: What type of event are you planning? Is it a dinner party, wedding, birthday, corporate event, holiday gathering, or something else entirely? What’s your guest count? Even a rough estimate helps us determine menu structure, staffing, and service style. Do you have a date and location confirmed? This helps us check availability, assess kitchen access, and plan logistics. What is your preferred service style? Plated dinner, buffet, family-style, passed hors d’oeuvres, chef’s tasting, or a casual drop-off? Are there any dietary restrictions or preferences? Let us know about any food allergies, vegetarian/vegan needs, gluten-free requirements, or special diets—especially extreme or medical-based ones. Do you have a budget in mind? Even a flexible range helps us recommend the right ingredients, service level, and options. What kind of atmosphere or theme are you envisioning? Elegant? Cozy? Modern? Farm-to-table? Knowing your vibe helps us build a menu that feels aligned with your event. Will you need rentals or staffing support? Consider if you need service staff, bartenders, tableware, linens, or decor assistance.