Long before I started my business I knew who Lisa Dupar was. I remember seeing her in all of the local magazines and admiring everything she did. Although I had never met her in person, I knew that she was the best and that her company stood for excellence. She built her business on a foundation of exquisite food and exceptional service. When I started my company, I hoped to be known for the same attributes.
The first time I met Lisa, and introduced myself to her, I figured she would have no idea who I was. Before I could finish saying my name and telling her our company name, she lit up and gave me a hug while she told me she had hoped to meet someday. I was blown away that she even knew who I was. I left our conversation that day feeling special, and like our company mattered.
That day I realized one of the many reasons Lisa is so successful. She makes you feel important, whether she is creating a refined menu for your elegant wedding, serving you fried chicken at her restaurant or just meeting you for the first time. She mixes amazing cuisine with the warmth of her Southern hospitality. Despite her many successes and the many awards she has won naming her the best caterer in Seattle, there is nothing pretentious about her and she is completely humble. It’s been more than 10 years from the time I first learned about Lisa, and her company is still the one that I want to model ours after, hoping to be known for the same distinctive qualities.
It was such an honor to collaborate with Lisa and her amazing team to design the annual open house that they host for their colleagues and clients. We worked together to create a French market inspired event using touches of black and white stripes, table coverings made from European linen and a truck full of lush flowers. We sketched and lettered menus on chalkboards to give an authentic Parisian feel, turned wine barrels into tables and even set up a flower stand to send each guest home with a bouquet of tulips.
My only regret from the evening? Not tasting everything on the menu. From the cider and cheese bar and the cronuts on the croissant bar to the small bites passed around and all of the creamy confections on the dessert buffet (and let’s not foget about that tasty cocktail I started drinking like water) …. everything was created to perfection and served with that that good ol’ Southern hospitality that defines the Lisa Dupar Catering Company.
Thanks Lisa and team for the opportunity to collaborate with you on this event. Can’t wait to start dreaming up something even better for next year.
Photos: Matthew Land Photography
Stationery: Spruce Stationery and Design
And Seriously… if any of you readers live in the Seattle area, head over to Redmond to Lisa’s restaurant, Pomegranate Bistro and treat yourself to some really good food. I’d suggest picking up a copy of her cookbook as well.
