How Does It Work?
The simple answer is that ideally, I evaluate the needs of each client individually. A personal chef is just that, “personal” - so I believe in working with you to find a plan that fits best for your lifestyle.
We meet in your home to discuss your food preferences, any food allergies (or aversions!), and what types of meals work best for you. Does your family have a favorite recipe you’d like to share? We also decide how you’d like your food to be prepared. Do I come in once a week and cook meals to be refrigerated and frozen for the entire week, or would you prefer fresher entrees refrigerated only, prepared twice a week or more? Would you like your meals cooked completely and left with warming instructions, or do you enjoy participating in the preparation of meals, preferring to cook fully pre-prepped foods to finish the meal?
I do all the grocery shopping for the recipes we’ve chosen together. Need some extra items picked up while I’m at it? No problem, just give me a list. The object here is saving you time and effort.
I come to your home at the appointed time and cook the designated meals. I bring my own equipment and tools, including the food storage containers the meals will be stored in. When I’m done, I leave your kitchen sparkling clean and your meals clearly marked with instructions stocked in your fridge or freezer. Do you have to be home? No, most of my clients leave a key or make me a copy so that I can work while they’re away. Meals for a week take approximately 8 hours to prepare (not counting shopping time), and meals for 2 or 3 days take 4 or 5 hours.
Payment for the plan we’ve agreed upon is due at the time of weekly or bi-weekly menu approval. If you don’t have a charge account at a grocery store, you’ll also pay a deposit for groceries, to be settled on the next bill, based on the receipts. We can plan over the phone, by email, or meet in person, whichever is most convenient for you.
In addition, in-home catering is available for your next hosted event. Whether it’s a lunch for “the girls”, a bridal or baby shower, holiday meals, a cocktail party, or just a nice sit-down dinner with good friends, I’ll work with you to create a custom menu that meets your entertaining and budgetary needs. I can also plan for all the extras, such as decorations, floral, serviceware rentals or disposables, and extra labor, if necessary. I show up the day of the event and take it from there! Payment for the menu and service plan we’ve agreed upon is due 72 hours in advance of the event.
