Preparing For Your Personal Chef

For over a decade, we’ve been entering people’s homes and vacation houses to serve them. It’s interesting how some people immediately welcome you and are comfortable with you in their space, while others start out nervous, but warm up as the experience moves forward. Everyone eventually enjoys themselves, including us.

There are some things you can do to make your personal chef experience more comfortable and enjoyable as you prepare for us to arrive.

Communication

It’s not uncommon for vacationing folks to run behind schedule as their whole point of getting away is to escape schedules! However, if you’ve given us an appetizer start time of 6 pm and it’s obvious everyone won’t be showered by then, just mention that you’d like to start a few minutes later. Or if you prefer to eat appetizers by the pool and dinner on the porch, just let us know. We’re really open to whatever works for you. But communication makes it easier for all of us.

Also, if you’re aware that an appliance isn’t working or behaves a bit quirky, definitely give us a heads up. We once did a pizza party and discovered the oven door didn’t actually close all the way. Unfortunately, it put us way behind because the oven didn’t preheat properly. We literally had to rig a chair against it to close it. At least two members of the party later told us that they knew the oven didn’t close, but never mentioned it to anyone else. Any helpful information related to the kitchen makes the experience better for everyone.

Inventory Your Plates, Bowls and Silverware

Especially when staying in a vacation home, you’ll want to make sure there are enough dishes and utensils to allow everyone to eat multiple courses. Some chefs actually have clients video or take photographs of their kitchen cabinet contents. We don’t feel the need for that, but let us know before we head your way if you’re concerned about having enough dishes to serve your family and friends.

Dishwashers and Countertops

Speaking of dishes, be sure to run and empty your dishwasher before we arrive. While we clean up the kitchen before we leave, our time doesn’t allow us to clean up before we begin cooking for you.

It’s not uncommon for families in vacation homes to store lots of stuff on the counter because they’re not staying long. However, as chefs, we need the counter space to work our magic. Keep in mind that there are typically 2-3 of us, so we need room for each to prep, cook and clean up. Clear countertops add a level of safety and ease to our work.

Expect Us to Explore Your Kitchen

Don’t be surprised if we open every cabinet in the kitchen upon arrival. As personal chefs, we utilize much of the cookware and serving dishes rather than hauling our own around. We always have extra serving trays, cutting boards, etc. in our vehicle, but prefer to use what’s available in your home. So, before we get started, we inventory what’s already available.

Pets

We personally love animals and have our own goats, dogs and a cat. If you have pets with you, please advise us of the rules for them when we arrive. Laid back owners often allow their pets, especially dogs, to hang out with us in the kitchen, clean the floor and occasionally snag a treat. Other pets may be on a strict diet or maybe the owner doesn’t want them in the habit of being in the kitchen. Also, pets can be challenging if they’re underfoot as we’re moving quickly around a hot stove, sink, etc. There’s usually 2-3 of us working in a kitchen, so when you add a large dog, it can get awkward.

So just give your pet(s) a thought and help us understand how you want them managed while we’re visiting.

We’re excited to serve you, your friends and family. A little bit of preparation on your part means that once we arrive, you can just sit back and enjoy the experience, and of course, the tasty food.

See you soon!

Note: Although we don’t allow public comments on our blog, we’d love to hear from you if you have a question or related comment. Email info@seasonspersonalchef.com if you’d like to connect.