We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Lanette Miles . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Lanette below.
Hi Lanette , thanks for joining us today. What’s been the best thing you’ve ever seen (or done yourself) to show a customer that you appreciate them?
One of the most memorable instances where we showcased our appreciation to a customer was during a special collaboration event with a local winery. This event was not only a showcase of our charcuterie offerings but also a celebration of local artisans and flavors.
We meticulously curated a customized charcuterie board that incorporated the winery’s signature wines and the flavors of the region. Each element of the board, from the selection of premium cured meats and cheeses to the arrangement of fresh fruits, nuts, and artisanal crackers, was carefully chosen to complement the wines being presented.
What made this experience truly exceptional was the personal touch we added to it. We took the time to understand the preferences and dietary restrictions of the customer, allowing us to create a board that catered to their tastes. Moreover, we incorporated a hand-written note expressing our gratitude for their patronage and for being a part of this unique event.
When the customer arrived and saw the thought and effort that had gone into crafting this personalized culinary experience, they were genuinely touched. The fusion of flavors, the aesthetics of the presentation, and the attention to detail all conveyed a strong message of appreciation. The customer felt valued and understood, which made their experience not just about buying products, but about being a cherished part of our community.
This gesture resonated with the customer on multiple levels. It demonstrated that we were not just a charcuterie company, but a brand that cared about forging meaningful connections and creating memorable moments for our customers. The customer likely felt a sense of delight, recognition, and gratitude, as they were treated to an experience that went beyond their expectations.
In the end, it wasn’t just about the delicious food; it was about memories we helped create. This instance showcased that when you put genuine effort into understanding your customer and tailor your offerings to their preferences, you can create a lasting impression that strengthens the bond between your brand and your customers.
Lanette , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I have been in the food and beverage industry for 24 years, working at several upscale resorts such as the Royal Hawaiian in Oahu, The Kapalua Bay hotel in Maui, the Ritz Carlton in Phoenix, and in Mexico. In all of these resorts, our chefs and myself have worked side by side with some of the best chefs in the country.
I graduated from the Art Institute of Seattle with a full degree in Food Science. Since then, I have been on several food expeditions throughout Mexico and many regions of the US. Finally, I started with The Cake Contessa in 2005, and from there I opened Contessa Catering, Contessa of Charcuterie and Contessa the Bakery
I really, truly, love what I do.
I’m the same person that you will talk to throughout your entire process.
I’m so blessed to have an amazing staff. We are a full-service catering company with servers, bussers, bartenders, greeters, and planners. And Now Delivery Drivers.
Have you ever had to pivot?
During covid we opened on online bakery that ships nationwide. We have since made it so you can still ship nationwide or we deliver locally.
How do you keep your team’s morale high?
Our team thrives on positivity, and those who don’t share this outlook might find it challenging to integrate smoothly. In a world already filled with negativity, our workspace is dedicated to maintaining a positive atmosphere. We actively seek individuals who exude happiness and a vibrant spirit, particularly those who hold a strong passion for the culinary world.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://contessaofcharcuterie.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/contessaofcharcuterie/