Move over traditional buffet and dining setups — handcrafted dishes, innovative and interactive experiences are on the menu du jour for Emelle's Catering, who specialize in customized corporate events for two to 2,000 guests.
For businesses looking to elevate their events, Emelle's Catering has become a trusted partner for everything from grand conferences and large-scale galas to small team lunches and any gathering in between.
Known for their fresh, locally-sourced customized menus, they tailor each event to their client's unique vision with memorable meals and bites focused on sustainability, delivered by a top-notch team.
"Our commitment to our team is what ensures our success, large or small," says Nicole Burke, Emelle's vice president. "We are proud to be Small Business BC’s Best Employer 2020. Creating a happy, healthy and fun work environment means our guests benefit from the positivity of the service because the team is invested in delivering a quality experience."
Crafting experiences that mirror the values and capture the standards and spirit of the hosting organization is one feat, but Burke's team moves the needle in the kitchen and on the plate; they're dedicated to marrying culinary flair with personalization.
In Burke's words, they want to know why you're hosting the event and how the food supports those objectives, not just pick Menu A. "Our standard menus have provisions for dietary requests (gluten-free, plant-based, allergy friendly, etc.), which we hope makes it feel more approachable and inclusive."
There's always tried and true guest favourites, but they're known for their twist on pithiviers, classically a sweet dish, but Emelle's have turned it savoury. "Imagine layers of black forest ham, Emmental with Dijon Royale, baked in puff pastry," Burke describes. "It’s just gooey goodness!"
That kind of innovation comes second nature to Emelle's, the same way they balance creativity with the logistical needs of each catering event, crushing challenges, like setting up in a field with no power or water. "We get inspiration from usual sources, but I’m most proud when we get inspiration from each other," reveals Burke. "Our team is made up of people from different countries and cultures, with a vast age range. This gives different perspectives, life experiences, and adds to our flavour."
A cornerstone of their philosophy includes supporting local farmers and purveyors to source fresh high-quality ingredients, an approach that enhances the quality and appeal of their menu offerings. A collab relationship with Mt. Pleasant businesses mark a lot of their dishes, such as, Swiss Bakery, East Van Brewing, Windsor Meats, and Granville Island's Armando’s & Oyama Sausage. "We source vegan options from Vegan Supply in Chinatown, too," says Burke. "It’s important that we support local small businesses; if they thrive we thrive."
The team is also driven to minimize their environmental impact and incorporate sustainable practices into their daily operations; you'll only taste wild salmon on their menus, something Emelle's prides themselves on during their entire 25 years in business.
"Our vision includes “the planet” as one of our pillars (team guests, community, planet), so we have been committed long before it was mainstream to do so," informs Burke. "We were one of the first to commercially compost, both in our shop and on site at events. We have adjusted to low-flow water, to LED from fluorescent, all of our packaging is compostable, plus, we minimize single-use whenever we can, sending in bulk."
It's apparent Emelle's continues to do all the right things. Afterall, they're in a fiercely crowded market and have stood the test of time. Burke speaks to their longevity, uncommon in their field.
"We had a fantastic celebration to mark our 25th anniversary at Science World, our very first venue partnership, 23 years ago. We clearly have the best guests and partners, who continue to shout from the rooftops on our behalf, which affirms that consistently delivering product and services based on our values, builds relationships.
"Being consistent is the only way to survive," says Burke. "We cater to you, with ease and grace."
For more information, visit emelles.com.
