Why Having an Event Planner with Michelin-Star Chef Experience is a Game Changer

August 5, 2024

Planning an event? Whether it’s a wedding, corporate party, or just a big get-together, the details matter. Decor, music, atmosphere—all important. But let’s be honest, it’s the food people crave and remember. Now, picture this: your event planner, used to be a chef in some of the world’s top kitchens. Intrigued? We sat down to find out what her skills and experience bring to the table as your wedding planner.

Q: What makes Sirtaki Events stand out in the world of event planning?

A:

Before Yonathan and I founded Sirtaki Events, we each had over 20 years of experience in the hospitality and service industry, both front and back of house in kitchens, bars, restaurants, and hotels around the world. We bring this seasoned experience to the table of every conversation we have and every event we plan. Personally, I spent years training and working in Michelin-starred restaurants around the world. That experience really shapes how we approach event planning, especially when it comes to the food.

Q: How does your culinary background influence the events you plan?

A:

Working in top kitchens teaches you not only about flavors, ingredients, and presentation but also discipline, organization, and structure. I bring this same approach, attention to detail, and creativity to each event I plan. The menu isn’t just a list of dishes—it’s an integral part of the event’s experience.

Q: What can clients expect when it comes to the menus at their events?

A:

We want our couples to feel as though their wedding day, including their menu, is a representation of who they are. Be it cultural dishes, their favorite ingredients, or what they ate on their first date, I make a big effort to get to know the couple and their story and find ways to tell this through their menu. Having extensive experience as a chef, not only in Michelin-star restaurants but also in concept restaurants and at authentic street food stands around the world, allows me to blend flavors and styles creatively. I can take a simple dish like fish and chips and turn it into a seafood experience, blending a favorite dish with local Greek ingredients and flavors.

Quite often, a wedding will be one of the first times families meet each other. Sharing food and drink, especially if significant to the couple, can help bring everyone together. Having worked all over the world, I am familiar with many different cooking styles.

Q: How do you ensure the food service runs smoothly during events?

A:

Having worked both front and back of house in hospitality settings across the world, I can speak the language and understand the intricacies of both. Working with Michelin star chefs instills in you a desire for excellence. We are always striving to be the best, finding ways to connect with our guests and give them an incredible experience. Many of the vendors we work with have commented on how unique and helpful this is.

Q: What sets the presentation and details apart at events planned by Sirtaki Events?

A:

We eat first with our eyes! This applies from fast food to fine dining. No matter the style of the food, whether it’s a buffet service, food stand, or family-style feast served at the center of your table, the presentation is key. The colors of the dishes, the tableware, the balance of the flavors, the consistency—no detail is left to chance.

Q: How does your unique background make events more memorable for guests?

A:

Guests notice when an event has that extra special touch, and the food plays a huge role in that. With a menu crafted by someone who’s trained in the best kitchens, the food isn’t just good—it’s exceptional. This makes the event stand out and gives guests something to talk about long after it’s over.

Let me give you an example. We had a couple where the groom and several members of his family were Coeliac. I was able to create an entire gluten-free menu, not only for the wedding meal but for the entire weekend. From every meal, side, snack, and drink, there was no compromise on flavor or variety. For the groom and his family, it was pure magic to not have to give their allergies and special requirements a second thought throughout the event. It was a huge gift.

Q: In a nutshell, why should someone choose Sirtaki Events for their next big event?

A:

When choosing your event planner, you are welcoming that person into your life. You will have weekly video calls and chats, they will get to know all about you and your family, and you are entrusting them with one of the key moments in your lives. For these reasons, you need to find someone you connect with, someone who gets you—who is on the same level.

Choosing Sirtaki Events means you’re choosing us, our experiences, our knowledge, our skills, our sense of humor, our creativity. So, for the couple looking for an experienced, professional yet fun and creative team, the foodies—you’ve found your match!

Need help bringing your dreams to life – contact us today!