April 9, 2009

Being a Personal Chef

Aloha and Mahalo. It has been over a year now that I have been working as a personal chef. It has been a fascinating journey. And what's interesting is that my biggest fear of not having variety or getting bored definitely is not an issue in this field. It has been an amazing year of opportunities and growth. My birthday is in less than a week so I thought it would be appropriate to express my thanks and gratitude to this amazing island of Maui, its visitors and the local ohana that is so bright and beautiful.

I can now say that I specialize in gourmet fresh food with Hawaiian//Mediterranean influence. It's been awesome getting to know the local vendors for the freshest fruits, vegetables and herbs. I have also had a lot of fun creating new dishes incorporating these ingredients.

My clients have included families hiring me for the week in their luxury villa. Visitors here for weddings hosting private events at their oceanfront homes. Romantic dinner surprises. Guests having birthday celebrations for friends and family. People buying gift certificates for cooking classes as gifts for their friends here on Maui. Cooking classes for children. Thanksgiving lunches. Posh Christmas gatherings for 40. Raw food gatherings. I have have been able to get a name for some of my specialty desserts. I also have regular clients who get my gourmet meals weekly. I have traveled the entire island and my versatility and flexibility have given me many opportunities I could not have imagined.
This year has been a journey into the appreciation of celebration, food and being creative. I have learned so much this past year about the versatility of ingredients and the need to keep true to my desire to keep meals fresh, healthy, delicious and full of variety.
It has been awesome to help people celebrate events in a memorable and fun way. I appreciate the creative opportunity. It's an honor to be with people as they celebrate, whether it's a honeymoon, a birthday, a sunset, a holiday or just a beautiful day on Maui. Thank you Maui. Thank you everyone who has helped make this journey possible. Mahalo.

I will be writing again soon. Have a beautfiul day.