About My Company

I established Eclectic Epicurean 1997 to fulfill a specific need.  Having previously been in charge of party and convention planning at two large corporations, I had used several caterers for various events, but had been disappointed because even though many had excellent food and services, I wanted to develop my own menus, themes, and serving procedures for the specific events my company planned.  I wanted a company that catered to MY needs, rather than to force me to conform to someone else's set parameters!

Another problem with the catering companies I had used in the past was that many of their food items were prepared in bulk, or were purchased ready made or frozen from other sources.  I wanted food that tasted and looked like it was prepared just for my event--Custom Made--in a small kitchen just for me and to my specifications.  I wanted real butter and cream, breads and rolls baked the day of my event, and beautiful displays.  I wanted a company that kept up with food trends and had exciting and innovative foods for me to choose from!  It seemed that what I wanted was just too much to ask; I could find no company in my area that would do it my way. 

So I started my own company,  Eclectic (Pronunciation: "e-'klek-tik" meaning composed of elements gathered from various sources) Epicurean (Pronunciation: "e-pi-kyu-'rE-&n" meaning one with sensitive and discriminating tastes especially in food or wine). 

Having been a "foodie" all my life, I had attended many cooking classes, had a library of over 2000 cookbooks, had prepared custom cakes and desserts in a small side business, worked in several restaurants, and had learned much about cooking and serving from the most discriminating cook and gracious hostess (my mother).   I researched the business, practiced on my friends and relatives, wrote a clear-cut business plan, and started cooking.  Over 10 years later, Eclectic Epicurean offers the following:

• Menus which include trendy and innovative food suggestions as well as comfort foods and popular dishes.  The dishes we serve at functions are those that are suited to each client's needs.  We will prepare any dish requested (almost--no margarine, no fake whipped cream, no canned soup, etc.)
• All food made in small batches for each event; nothing purchased frozen or ready-made--every dish is custom-made for each client
• Highest quality ingredients:  real butter, real whipping cream, fresh eggs, top grade meats, poultry, and seafood, fresh fruits and vegetables
• Fresh breads, rolls, and sandwich buns (always baked on the day of the event); nothing commercially purchased
• Beautiful displays complete with linens and serving pieces
• Event planning services

I hope to work with you soon to make one of your events memorable and delicious!

Karen Hancock