Business Details
16 Years
experience
Custom Catering & Event Planning Experts in Norfolk
Chef By Design Catering is a full-service catering and event planning company dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences through seasonally inspired menus and exceptional service. With over 15 years of expertise in the Hampton Roads region, we specialize in translating client visions into meticulously planned events, from intimate dinners to large-scale galas. Our approach begins with personalized consultations to understand individual preferences, followed by the creation of custom proposals that reflect each client's unique style and budget. We emphasize quality by using fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared from scratch and presented with artistic flair. Our team of professionals, including award-winning chefs and event coordinators, ensures every detail is executed flawlessly, from initial concept to final execution.We pride ourselves on our ability to accommodate dietary restrictions while maintaining culinary excellence and visual appeal. Our commitment to integrity and reliability has earned us a reputation as a trusted partner for both private and corporate events. Through detailed pre-event planning and on-site coordination, we guarantee seamless experiences that exceed client expectations. Our dedication to continuous innovation keeps us at the forefront of catering trends while maintaining the highest standards of service. This combination of creativity, expertise, and attention to detail makes Chef By Design Catering the premier choice for discerning clients seeking exceptional event solutions.
Services
Custom Catering
Event Planning
Private Tastings
Dietary Accommodations
Table Presentation
Wedding Catering
Corporate Events
Venue Coordination
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- We offer 15+ years of experience in Hampton Roads event planning and catering
- Our team includes award-winning chefs and certified event professionals
- We provide personalized menu development with private tasting sessions
- We guarantee seamless execution from concept to event conclusion
- We maintain 100% client satisfaction through detailed pre-event coordination
What people say
Best wedding food
Seamless planning process
Attentive staff
Exquisite presentation
Detailed coordination
Services
Custom Catering
Our custom catering service creates personalized menus tailored to client preferences and event themes. We use fresh, locally sourced ingredients prepared from scratch by our award-winning chefs. Each menu undergoes rigorous tasting and refinement to ensure exceptional flavor and presentation that exceeds client expectations.
Event Planning
Full-service event planning covers every detail from initial concept to final execution. Our certified planners coordinate venue selection, vendor management, and timeline development. We provide comprehensive support through private consultations and detailed planning documents to guarantee seamless event execution.
Private Tastings
Private tasting sessions allow clients to experience their event menu before finalization. Our chefs present curated selections that reflect the proposed menu, making adjustments based on client feedback. This process ensures complete satisfaction with flavor profiles, presentation, and overall dining experience.
Dietary Accommodations
We specialize in creating delicious alternatives for various dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-friendly options. Our kitchen staff follows strict preparation protocols to prevent cross-contamination. Each accommodation maintains the same high standards of flavor and presentation as our standard menu items.
Table Presentation
Our design team creates visually stunning food presentations that complement event themes. We use custom plating techniques and decorative elements to enhance visual appeal. Each display combines artistic creativity with practical considerations for guest accessibility and service efficiency.
People
Marcy Telfer
President and CEO
With over 15 years leading Chef By Design Catering, Marcy Telfer combines business acumen with culinary vision to maintain our company's excellence in event catering and planning.
Chef John Patrick Telfer
Owner
As owner and lead chef, Chef John brings culinary expertise and creative direction to our menu development and food presentation standards, ensuring exceptional dining experiences for every client.
Joanie Powell
Chief Operating Officer
Joanie Powell oversees daily operations and team coordination, maintaining efficiency across all departments while upholding our commitment to exceptional service quality.
Emily Rose
Senior Sales Manager
Emily Rose manages client relationships and sales strategy, bringing extensive event industry knowledge to help clients create memorable experiences through our services.
Adam Snyder
Executive Chef
Adam Snyder leads our culinary team with expertise in seasonal cuisine and innovative menu development, ensuring consistent quality across all catering events and private tastings.
Questions
What types of events do you cater?
We cater all event types including weddings, corporate functions, private parties, and social gatherings of any size in the Hampton Roads area.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, we specialize in creating delicious alternatives for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly dietary needs while maintaining exceptional flavor.
Do you offer event planning services?
Yes, we provide full-service event planning including venue selection, vendor coordination, timeline development, and on-site management for seamless execution.
How does the menu customization process work?
Our process includes personalized consultations followed by private tasting sessions where we refine menu selections based on your preferences and event vision.
What areas do you serve?
We serve the entire Hampton Roads region including Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Suffolk, and Newport News.
Can we schedule a consultation?
Yes, we offer consultations by appointment at our Norfolk location. Contact us to schedule your initial consultation and tasting session.