Goodness Gracious

Business Details

10 Years

experience

Your Private Chef Experience in Sonoma Wine Country

Since 2016, Goodness Gracious has been dedicated to elevating hospitality and farm-to-table cuisine in Sonoma Valley. Our mission is to create immersive culinary experiences that connect people through locally sourced ingredients and authentic traditions. Founded by award-winning chef Lauren Kershner, we specialize in private chef services, custom catering, and curated events that celebrate the rich flavors of Wine Country. Our team of culinary and hospitality experts collaborates with local farmers, winemakers, and artisans to deliver unforgettable dining experiences tailored to each client. With over 180 glowing reviews, we pride ourselves on exceeding expectations through personalized service, sustainable practices, and a deep commitment to the community.

Recognized as Sonoma Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year in 2024, we continue to innovate through ventures like Songbird Parlour and West Wine Tours. From intimate dinners to wellness-focused events, we transform ordinary gatherings into meaningful celebrations of place and connection. Our expertise extends beyond the kitchen to include nutrition coaching and unique event spaces, ensuring every aspect of your experience reflects the essence of Sonoma Valley.

Services

Private Chef Services Custom Catering Multi-Course Dinners Wine Country Tours Nutrition Coaching Cooking Classes Vineyard Picnics Event Hosting Wellness Packages Hidden Gem Experiences

Details

Year established: 2016

Highlights and features

We specialize in Wine Country culinary experiences since 2016, blending seasonal ingredients with local traditions.
Our team partners directly with Sonoma farmers and winemakers for authentic, hyper-local menus.
Award-winning service recognized by Sonoma Chamber of Commerce (Business of the Year 2024).
Custom events for groups up to 18 guests with seamless execution from planning to clean-up.
Sustainable practices extend from sourcing to daily operations, honoring Sonomas land and community.

What people say

Incredibly memorable birthday celebration BEST New Year's Eve dinner experience Transformed ordinary meal into meaningful celebration Food was expertly prepared and explained Kitchen spotless after event

Website

Update Listing

Services

Private Chef Experiences

Our private chef services bring Sonoma's culinary heritage directly to your table. Professional chefs craft multi-course meals using hyper-local ingredients, sharing stories behind each dish and wine pairing. Ideal for celebrations or intimate gatherings, this service transforms vacation homes into gourmet dining venues while maintaining seamless service and flawless execution.

Custom Catering

Tailored catering services focus on seasonal, farm-sourced menus for weddings, corporate events, and special occasions. Dishes highlight regional producers while accommodating dietary preferences. Our team manages every detail from setup to cleanup, ensuring culinary excellence that reflects Wine Country's spirit and delights every palate.

Wine Country Tours

Curated tours combine culinary exploration with regional discovery, featuring hidden wineries, organic farms, and cultural landmarks. Led by local experts, these immersive experiences emphasize authentic connections to Sonoma's terroir and artisans. Tours include transportation, exclusive access, and culinary storytelling that captures the valley's essence.

Nutrition Coaching

Integrating culinary expertise with evidence-based nutrition guidance, our coaching service personalizes healthy eating plans using local ingredients. Certified professionals develop sustainable habits tailored to individual lifestyles while maintaining the joy of eating through farm-to-fork principles and hands-on cooking experience.

Event Hosting at Songbird Parlour

This historic Victorian lounge accommodates up to 85 guests for weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings. Full-service packages combine exceptional cuisine, curated design, and event planning expertise. The venue showcases regional wines and artisanal products while offering flexible spaces for creating lasting memories in Sonoma's heart.

People

Lauren Kershner

Founder

Award-winning chef Lauren Kershner founded Goodness Gracious in 2016 after training at Le Cordon Bleu and working in Napa Valley's top restaurants. Recognized by North Bay Business Journal and Press Democrat, she champions Sonoma's food culture through immersive experiences and community-driven ventures like Songbird Parlour and West Wine Tours.

Brandy Ceremony-Avia

Director of Sales and Operations

With 15+ years in hospitality, Brandy oversees operations while leveraging her UC Berkeley nutrition background. A sixth-generation Sonoma resident, she prioritizes sustainability and community connections. Her expertise spans from Sacramento's farm-to-fork movement to developing Goodness Gracious' relationship-driven business model.

Eric Moulton

Executive Chef

Native Sonoman Eric Moulton brings global culinary influences to his role, shaped by training at Le Cordon Bleu SF and experience at Michelin-recognized restaurants. His cooking philosophy emphasizes ingredient purity, open-fire techniques, and showcasing Sonoma County's agricultural bounty through seasonal, locally sourced menus.

Questions

What locations do your culinary experiences cover?

We serve Sonoma Valley, Napa Valley, and surrounding areas including Glen Ellen, Kenwood, Santa Rosa, Healdsburg, and San Francisco.

How do I book a private chef experience?

Submit an inquiry through our website with preferred dates and group size. We'll provide availability, menu options, and a custom proposal within one business day.

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes, our chefs create customized menus for all dietary needs while maintaining flavor excellence and local ingredient integrity.

What makes your service different from other caterers?

We combine culinary expertise with deep local connections, offering immersive storytelling experiences that transform meals into cultural journeys through Sonoma's terroir.

Are menus seasonal?

Yes, menus change quarterly based on local harvests. We feature ingredients from trusted Sonoma producers to guarantee peak freshness and regional authenticity.