Fat Sisters was first conceived from our kitchens of RFA Catering. It is a combination of 2 chicks who happened to be professionally trained chefs and one tough army military sergeant who knows how to cook. After closing the doors of RFA Catering they decided to take a different route. Being southern raised all of our chefs know traditional southern cooking. However, being trained in French, Asian, and International cooking allows them to cook food their way…fun, fusion, and excitement. Our team believes in FLAVOR and therefore, they are known as Flavor Specialist.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve ever faced while planning an event and how did you overcome it?
This question is a tough one to answer. To me, all of our events were always challenging due to the fact that we were a small boutique catering company but always managed to pull off large events. Which is probably why we completely shut our doors of RFA Catering and started something new.
However, one of the most challenging was a five-day event for the Grand Opening of CampCreek Marketplace. Each day there was a different event in different locations of the Marketplace. We had to prepare for over 700 people total as well as having a huge crew (servers, bartenders, chefs, event staff)!!! We were hired by North American Properties and the festivities not only included the community it also included the shareholders and Big Wigs from New York. Needless to say, we pulled it off and this is how our little baby company became known and began generating buzz on the Southwest side of Atlanta!
What are 2 trends in the catering industry that you’re excited about?
I always say that this industry is always changing. You learn something new every day.
I’m excited that we are concentrating more on the food. We are letting the food be the spotlight and not just the tablescape.
I am also excited that simple is in. Not sure how long the minimal but beautiful will last but I’m enjoying it for now. For instance, we recently catered an event where the client thought that we can only set up food displays on tables with linen. Surprise!! The venue had a beautiful Marble Countertop where the food and how it was arranged became the hit of the event. The Food Display told a story.
How important are your relationships with vendors and what are some ways that you successfully cultivate and ensure good rapport?
The vendor relationship is so important, especially in the event industry. Considering that we are now a new company and because of the vendor relationships we established, I can still call on those vendors and they are there for me and vice versa.
It so important how you treat people. It goes a long way. For example, one of our linen vendors back in the day was so appreciative that we referred her company to one of our Corporate Clients. It gained the linen company a big account and she was the event designer on the account. From that experience, we catered her wedding and she is still a very good friend and client to this day.
What’s the most exciting thing on the horizon for you personally or professionally?
The last 2 years of my life has taken me on a roller coaster that has affected me both personally and professionally. When your body takes on chronic illness it makes you look at life differently. My pursuit of going after the biggest client or working 20 hour long days are no longer my hustle. I’m not sure if someone can be happy that cancer came into their life along with other illnesses but I am. December 22 marked my 1 year anniversary being diagnosed with breast cancer.
I’m excited that my life means more than just being the hands preparing a meal or putting together an event. I’m excited that 2020 will bring me new life and new opportunities. I’m excited to experience life all over again. Opening a bistro, having a new granddaughter, seeing my youngest son through high school and finishing my first cookbook. Excited to share that food now takes on a new meaning for me and purpose for me.
What are some things you wished you knew before starting your businesses?
Starting a business is no easy task. I knew this however, I didn’t know that over the last 20 years I will work harder for myself than I do for anyone else. Also, who knew that shutting down a business and restarting a new one would be even harder. I had this idea that everyone would know it’s us just a new name and new concept and it would be easy-breezy…was I wrong.
What sets you apart from other caterers?
What sets us apart from others is just us. We just do what we love and it shows. I think if you really love what you do people will see it. Sometimes I think I may care just a little too much. Caring is good but it allows you to go the extra mile and it keeps you humble.
What kind of food are you known for and what is your favorite food?
We are known for Healthy but flavorful food. It ranges from Southern Cuisine to Asian Cuisine. Also, we like fusing food and flavors together. However, being from Atlanta, Ga and true Southerners we know our roots. Totally known for the best Pimento Cheese and Cheese Grits – HINT (Cheese). However, most people don’t know that my favorite foods are potatoes and salads!! Yes, I can eat potatoes any way, shape, and form. As well, I can eat a salad any time of the day!!
What types of events do you service?
We offer Personal Chef Services, service small intimate events, as well as Corporate and Social Catering. Because we just opened our new Bistro we also offer food services and Chef Prep Meals. Our Chef Prep meals can also be purchased on our store website on a weekly basis with no contract.
