Business Details
28 Years
experience
Award-Winning BBQ Catering in West Virginia
Established in 1998, Jaws Bbq has built a reputation as a premier catering and concession provider rooted in West Virginia tradition. Our family-owned business specializes in slow-cooked, award-winning meats including tender pork BBQ, grilled chicken, smoked sausage, and the renowned Ivanhoe Brisket, all prepared fresh for every event. With over 25 years of experience, we serve clients across West Virginia and neighboring states, offering scalable solutions from intimate gatherings to large-scale events serving 5,000 guests. Our commitment to quality extends to every detail, from our house-made sides like coleslaw and baked beans to our 12-flavor UNKS LEMON SHAKEUPS.As an incorporated business, we maintain rigorous operational standards while preserving the personal touch of our West Virginia heritage. Our team of skilled professionals ensures seamless execution for weddings, corporate events, festivals, and fundraising initiatives, supported by equipment rentals and customizable catering packages. Recognized for serving high-profile events like presidential rallies and international scouting jamborees, we combine culinary expertise with logistical precision to deliver exceptional experiences.
Services
Catering Services
Concession Stands
Fundraising Events
Equipment Rentals
Custom BBQ Packages
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1998 with 25+ years of event catering expertise
- Serves up to 5,000 guests per event with professional efficiency
- Uses fresh, house-made ingredients for meats and sides daily
- Proven track record with high-profile events like presidential rallies
- Offers complete event solutions including equipment rentals and custom packages
What people say
Award-winning BBQ
Fresh house-made sides
Professional staff
Handles large events
Signature brisket
Services
Catering Services
Full-service catering for weddings, corporate events, and large gatherings. Our professional team handles menu planning, food preparation, on-site service, and cleanup. Available for events of all sizes from intimate dinners to 5,000-person functions. Includes customizable menus featuring award-winning BBQ meats and fresh house-made sides.
Concession Stands
Mobile concession services for fairs, festivals, and public events. Specializing in West Virginia-style BBQ, smoked meats, and signature lemonade flavors. Operates at over 20 annual events across the state including the West Virginia Strawberry Festival and Mountain State Arts and Craft Fair. Provides complete setup, service, and cleanup.
Fundraising Events
Catering solutions designed for nonprofit fundraising initiatives. Originally established to support church mission trips, we offer event planning, food service, and logistical support for charitable causes. Includes carry-out meal programs and on-site event catering with customizable donation structures.
Equipment Rentals
Comprehensive rental services for event essentials including tents, tables, chairs, and cooking equipment. Features specialized BBQ gear like hog roasters and commercial smokers. Available for self-service packages or full catering integration. Supports DIY events while maintaining professional presentation standards.
Custom BBQ Packages
Flexible catering packages adaptable to specific event needs. Options include meat-and-cooker rentals, full-service buffets, or la carte menu items. Features signature dishes like Ivanhoe Brisket and JAWS HOG HIDES. Includes consultation for menu customization and event planning support.
People
Gary Connell
Owner
Founder of Jaws Bbq with over 25 years in the catering industry. Developed signature recipes using family traditions. Leads operations and maintains quality standards across all services.
Brenda Connell
Co-Owner
Integral to daily operations and client relations. Contributes culinary expertise from family recipes. Supports event coordination and staff management alongside Gary.
Ben Connell
Event Coordinator
Manages logistics for large-scale events. Handles client consultations and on-site service execution. Ensures seamless delivery for high-profile functions.
Jessica Connell-Grose
Operations Manager
Oversees staff training and service quality. Coordinates equipment rentals and event logistics. Maintains organizational standards for professional service delivery.
Questions
What types of events do you cater?
We cater weddings, corporate events, festivals, fundraisers, family reunions, and large-scale public events up to 5,000 guests.
Do you offer equipment rentals?
Yes, we rent tents, tables, chairs, hog roasters, and commercial cooking equipment for self-service or catered events.
Are your meats prepared fresh?
All meats are slow-cooked fresh daily using traditional methods, including our award-winning pulled pork and Ivanhoe Brisket.
Do you serve outside West Virginia?
We operate throughout West Virginia and neighboring states, with experience handling multi-state event logistics.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking 3-6 months ahead for large events, though we accommodate shorter timelines when possible.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit cards and business checks. Payment terms vary by event size and service package.