Business Details
46 Years
experience
Your Trusted Chicago Catering & Event Planning Experts
Inspired Catering & Events has been crafting exceptional events for over 25 years, rooted in a family tradition that began in 1980 with Phil Stefani's flagship restaurant. Our team combines decades of hospitality expertise with a commitment to innovation, offering personalized catering and event planning solutions tailored to each client's vision. As a certified WBE, ACDBE, and DBE company, we prioritize diversity and excellence in every detail. Our services span corporate events, weddings, social gatherings, and private dining, supported by a network of trusted vendors across Chicago. We specialize in transforming concepts into memorable experiences through customized menus, venue selection, and design.Karen and Gina Stefani, third-generation leaders, continue the legacy of quality and service established by their family. Our dedication to community impact is reflected in initiatives like The Stefani Children's Charities, partnering with organizations such as Special Olympics and Make-A-Wish. With over 100 off-premise venues and street fair experiences, we bring creativity and precision to every occasion. Client testimonials highlight our team's professionalism, attention to detail, and ability to exceed expectations. From intimate celebrations to large-scale corporate functions, we ensure seamless execution and lasting impressions.
Services
Catering Services
Corporate Events
Wedding Ceremonies
Social Events
Details & Decor
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- 25+ years of hospitality industry expertise
- Certified WBE, ACDBE, and DBE company
- Family tradition of excellence since 1980
- Personalized service with dedicated event managers
- Extensive Chicago venue network and vendor partnerships
Associations and certifications
- WBE
- ACDBE
- DBE
What people say
WONDERFUL Team
Polite
Go beyond
TRULY grateful
Services
Catering Services
Our catering services combine culinary expertise with personalized menu development to create distinctive dining experiences. Clients work directly with our chefs to design custom menus that reflect their event's theme and dietary preferences. We handle all aspects of food service, from preparation to presentation, ensuring exceptional quality and presentation at every event.
Corporate Events
We specialize in creating impactful corporate events that align with business objectives and brand identity. Our team manages product launches, executive retreats, and staff appreciation events with strategic planning and attention to detail. From venue selection to branded dcor, we ensure professional execution that enhances client relationships and company culture.
Wedding Ceremonies
Our wedding services focus on creating personalized celebrations that reflect couples' unique stories and traditions. We coordinate ceremonies and receptions with customized dcor, cultural elements, and seamless logistics. Our expertise ensures stress-free planning from initial concept to final execution, allowing couples to enjoy their special day.
Social Events
We design memorable social gatherings including galas, graduations, and milestone celebrations with creative themes and tailored experiences. Our team specializes in fundraising events, family celebrations, and cultural festivals with customized entertainment and interactive elements. We ensure each event balances entertainment value with flawless logistical execution.
Details & Decor
Our event design services connect clients with Chicago's top vendors for comprehensive dcor solutions. We coordinate lighting, floral arrangements, entertainment, and specialty rentals through trusted partners. This holistic approach ensures cohesive visual storytelling and creates immersive environments that enhance the event experience.
People
Karen Stefani
Co-Owner
Karen Stefani leads daily operations at Inspired Catering & Events, focusing on corporate and fundraising events. She champions the company's WBE certification and drives community initiatives through The Stefani Children's Charities, supporting organizations like Special Olympics and Make-A-Wish.
Gina Stefani
Co-Owner
Gina Stefani co-owns Inspired Catering & Events after gaining hospitality experience through restaurant management and event planning. She opened MAD Social restaurant in 2016 and brings expertise in event coordination from her work with high-profile political campaigns and public affairs firms.
Tom Kokinakos
Senior Catering Sales Manager
Tom Kokinakos manages catering sales with extensive industry experience, helping clients create successful events through strategic planning and personalized service solutions tailored to their specific needs and objectives.
Rolando Gonzalez
Field Chef
Rolando Gonzalez serves as field chef, bringing culinary expertise to event execution with a focus on maintaining food quality and presentation standards during on-site service at various Chicago venues.
Questions
What types of events do you specialize in?
We specialize in corporate events, weddings, social gatherings, and private dining experiences across Chicago.
How do you personalize event planning?
Our dedicated event managers work one-on-one with clients to create customized menus, select venues, and design unique experiences.
Are you certified as a minority-owned business?
Yes, we are certified as a WBE, ACDBE, and DBE company.
What Chicago venues do you work with?
We have access to over 100 off-premise venues and collaborate with top vendors across Chicago.
Do you handle event logistics beyond catering?
Yes, we coordinate rentals, staffing, music, flowers, and other details through our trusted vendor network.
