The Grand Gourmet was founded in May of 2005 and has celebrated six successful years in business. Chef Sheena Castellanos says, “We feel that the key to meeting and exceeding our clients’ expectations is to provide unsurpassed service and high quality food offerings. Our menus consist of using only the finest choice meats and freshest ingredients. We strive to provide the ultimate dining experience, from intimate gatherings to large-scale events, all with the same attention to detail, consistency, and taste. ” I recently connected with Sheena to learn more about The Grand Gourmet. Here’s what she shared with me.
How did you get started in the catering business?
We started the business concept in 2002 and opened in March 2005. It started with my husband’s love for food, my love to cook, and a dinner party that was a huge success. The party was for my mother in law and all of her guests were surprised that I was not a professional. I later decided to make a career out of it and attended the Art Institute of Atlanta, where I graduated with honors. Once I graduated, it was a full go from there. We love what we do, and cannot imagine doing anything else.
What is a service that you provide that potential clients may not be aware of?
We do tastings for up to 4 people and provide a event layout and walk through upon signing of contract. We also have a great cancellation policy. Life loves to throw us curve balls, and sometimes, our client may get one thrown to them. Once we obtain a deposit, if there is anything that happens where we have to change a date or what have you, we hold that deposit for a future date of up to 9 months. (You don’t lose your deposit, it’s applied to the next event). We are also well connected in the industry and have access to rentals, DJ’s, photographers, production teams, etc. We want our clients to have the most successful event possible and we will do whatever to make that happen!
How do the food tastings work?
We love to get in front of the bride and groom and their loved ones. We come to you, and we do not charge for up to four people. We feel that this time with the bride allows us to fine tune the event based on what the bride, groom, and family really want. We want them to really see and taste what they will be getting for their money. It works for them and for us. 99% of the tastings we do are followed up with a booking!
What is one of your signature dishes?
Hard to narrow it down, but our Angus Loaf (Sheena’s Secret Recipe for Meatloaf) has to be one of the more popular options. Topped off with a crispy onion garnish…it’s out of this world!
How do you work with brides?
Our motto is “We Cater To Your Needs,” and we do what we can to make that work. There are so many brides with limited budgets and time constraints that are amazed by our pricing, our food, and our set up. Weddings are our cup of tea, and in the south, we know that it needs to be sweet!!
What is your favorite part of your job?
Satisfied Customers! Being a part of someone’s special day, and being an integral part of a successful event is an amazing feeling. I love seeing people come to the buffet two and three times, and seeing guests lick their fingers makes me smile.
Chef Sheena Castellanos’ specialties include, but are not limited to, good ole southern home style cooking, Floribbean cuisine, and Hispanic-American foods. The Morrow Center is pleased to have The Grand Gourmet as one of our preferred caterers.
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