Business Details
37 Years
experience
Your Trusted Catering & Event Planning Partner
Since 1989, Thank Goodness It's Sofia has been redefining the art of celebration through exceptional cuisine and innovative event design. Founded in a modest Long Beach kitchen, our journey spans 35 years of crafting experiences that blend bold flavors, artistic presentation, and heartfelt hospitality. As a sibling-led enterprise, Sofia Riley and George Marinos have transformed our passion for food into Southern California's premier catering and event planning company, serving clients from intimate gatherings to large-scale corporate events. Our culinary team, led by internationally trained chefs, creates menus that celebrate local ingredients and global influences while accommodating diverse dietary needs.We combine three decades of industry expertise with cutting-edge culinary trends to deliver personalized experiences that exceed expectations. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond the plate, encompassing seamless service, creative problem-solving, and a dedication to community through charitable partnerships. With a proven track record of award-winning execution and continuous innovation, we maintain our position as a trusted leader in the catering industry while upholding the personal touch that defines our brand.
Services
Catering Services
Event Planning
Full-Service Bar
Venue Selection
Wedding Catering
Corporate Events
Dietary-Specific Menus
Seasonal Menus
International Cuisine
Private Parties
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- 35 years of experience crafting exceptional culinary experiences
- Award-winning sibling leadership combining culinary and creative expertise
- Custom menus reflecting Southern California's cultural diversity
- Accommodate all dietary needs including plant-based and gluten-free options
- Recipient of multiple industry awards for culinary innovation and service
Associations and certifications
- International Caterers Association
Services
Catering Services
Our catering services combine bold flavors with artistic presentation, using locally sourced ingredients and global culinary influences. Menus are customized to reflect each client's vision while accommodating dietary needs. With 35 years of expertise, our internationally trained chefs create memorable dining experiences for events of all sizes.
Event Planning
We offer comprehensive event planning from concept to execution. Our team coordinates venues, decor, lighting, and entertainment while maintaining seamless service standards. With exclusive partnerships across Southern California, we transform spaces into unforgettable environments that reflect each client's unique style and requirements.
Full-Service Bar
Our licensed bartending services feature curated cocktails, premium spirits, and local wine and beer selections. TIPS-certified staff create signature drinks tailored to events while ensuring professional service. We provide complete bar setup including equipment, glassware, and inventory management for any occasion.
Venue Selection
We offer expert venue selection services across Southern California, leveraging established relationships with diverse locations. Our specialists evaluate architectural style, capacity, lighting, and logistical factors to find perfect event spaces. We provide venue walkthroughs and coordinate all logistical requirements for seamless execution.
Wedding Catering
Specializing in wedding celebrations, we create personalized culinary experiences that reflect couples' unique stories. Our services include tasting sessions, menu customization, and coordination with wedding planners. We combine elegant presentation with exceptional flavors to make wedding days truly memorable through food and service.
People
Sofia Riley
President / Founder
Culinary visionary with 35 years in the catering industry, Sofia founded the company in 1989 after graduating from UCLA. She combines creative food presentation with business acumen, balancing family responsibilities with company growth. Active in charity work fighting cancer and child abuse.
George Marinos
Chief Executive Officer
Joined the company in 1999 after successful careers in accounting and film production. Brings creative visual flair from Hollywood experience to event design. Maintains hands-on involvement in kitchen operations while overseeing business strategy and growth initiatives.
Jeremy Smith
Director of Sales
Leads sales operations with focus on client relationship development. Brings industry expertise in connecting clients with appropriate catering solutions. Manages business development strategies to expand market reach while maintaining service quality standards.
Mark Rivera
Director of Events
Manages event execution for key venues including The Mayne and The Centre. Coordinates logistics, vendor partnerships, and client expectations to ensure flawless event production. Combines organizational expertise with creative problem-solving for successful event outcomes.
Kevin Meyer
Executive Chef
Oversees culinary operations with international training and extensive kitchen experience. Develops seasonal menus that balance innovation with tradition. Ensures consistent quality across all food preparation while mentoring kitchen staff in advanced culinary techniques.
Questions
What types of events do you cater?
We cater all event types including weddings, corporate functions, private parties, and charity events. Our services adapt to both intimate gatherings and large-scale celebrations across Southern California.
Can you accommodate special dietary requirements?
Yes, we create customized menus for all dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options while maintaining exceptional flavor and presentation standards.
Do you provide event planning services?
Yes, we offer full-service event planning including venue selection, decor coordination, vendor management, and timeline organization to ensure seamless event execution from concept to completion.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Southern California with established venue partnerships in Long Beach, Los Angeles, Bellflower, Lakewood, and surrounding communities for both catering and event planning services.
Are your bartenders licensed and insured?
Yes, our full-service bar operations include TIPS-certified bartenders with proper licensing and insurance coverage for all alcohol service requirements at your event location.
How far in advance should I book your services?
We recommend booking 6-12 months in advance for weekends during peak seasons, though we accommodate shorter timelines when availability permits. Early consultation ensures better date and venue options.
