We recently connected with Emily Anderson and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Emily thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What do you think Corporate America gets wrong in your industry? Any stories or anecdotes that illustrate why this matters?

Catering is a giant industry and there is a lot of growth potential, especially if you expand to corporate lunch catering and exclusive contracts etc. However, like with any company the larger you get the harder it is to maintain quality control, employees, and the personal intimate touch you might have once had with customers.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I started Homegrown Kitchen (formerly called Plant Base Co.) about seven years ago after over a decade working in hospitality. We are not just a catering company; we become partners in creating a truly remarkable and unforgettable event with each of our clients. From providing expert guidance in menu planning and wine pairings to collaborating with other vendors to ensure seamless execution, we are committed to going above and beyond to make your event a resounding success. Our attention to detail and commitment to excellence permeate every aspect of what we do.

We believe that great food is the heart and soul of any memorable event. With a focus on global flavors and time-honored cooking techniques, our talented team of chefs and culinary experts crafts extraordinary dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

I think we have an immediate report with our customers because I am naturally a very friendly, open person and have quite a bubbly personality but am also very serious and knowledgeable about my work. From the very first phone call I am also trying to establish authority within my field and give great advice while also remaining funny, intuitive, and keeping things light. I tend to also hire very outgoing friendly staff so we bounce off each other and our energy as a team is really electric. It’s a lot to balance sometimes but I truly think that’s why people call us back over and over again and recommend us to friends and colleagues.

Do you have any stories of times when you almost missed payroll or any other near death experiences for your business?

I recently had to take a client to small claims court because he owed several thousand dollars on an invoice and refused to pay me. We just won the case but really if I never see that money again I gained a very valuable lesson – one I already knew but don’t always follow – get paid in full before you leave the premises or ideally a week before the event date!

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.homegrown.kitchen
• Instagram: Homegrownkitchenla