Episode 16: From Greasy Spoon to Glam Events — Deborah Miller’s Catering Journey

 

Restaurant-Catering-Smarts-Podcast-Episode-16-Deborah-Miller

 

In this episode of Restaurant Catering Smarts, Michael Attias welcomes Deborah Miller, Founder of Deborah Miller Catering & Events—one of New York City’s most creative and fast-growing catering companies.

Deborah shares her journey from growing up in her father’s “greasy spoon” to building a thriving, full-service catering and events business in the heart of Manhattan. She reveals how her team carved out a lucrative niche in micro weddings and intimate, high-impact events, and why personalization, creativity, and a “hospitality-first” mindset have fueled their growth.

They also dive into:

  • Adapting to shifting event trends, including post-pandemic demand for smaller, more meaningful celebrations.
  • The power of team culture in delivering exceptional client experiences.
  • Creative menu development that blends seasonality, presentation, and storytelling.
  • Operational systems and technology that keep her business running smoothly even during peak wedding season.

Packed with insights on building a brand that stands out in a competitive market, this episode is a must-listen for caterers and event professionals aiming to grow their business while delighting every client.

Restaurant Catering Smarts is sponsored by CaterZen Catering Software.

 

 

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Top Takeaways for Catering Success

✅ Niche Power – Specializing in micro weddings helped Deborah’s company stand out and capture a growing market.
✅ Hospitality at the Core – Every event is treated as a personal experience, not just a transaction.
✅ Adaptability Wins – Responding quickly to market shifts—like pandemic-driven smaller events—kept the business thriving.
✅ Team Culture Matters – Happy, empowered staff deliver better client experiences.
✅ Creative Menus Sell – Seasonal, visually stunning dishes spark excitement and referrals.
✅ Systems Support Growth – Leveraging tools and processes ensures consistent quality at scale.
✅ Client Relationships Drive Referrals – Building trust and rapport leads to repeat business.
✅ Presentation Elevates Value – From plating to décor, details create a “wow” factor.
✅ Word-of-Mouth Still Rules – Memorable experiences turn guests into future clients.
✅ Balancing Art & Business – Deborah blends creative passion with solid operational discipline.

Juicy Sound Bites

🔹 “Hospitality isn’t just what we do—it’s who we are.”
🔹 “Micro weddings are intimate, but the impact can be huge.”
🔹 “Our menus tell a story, and our clients are part of that story.”
🔹 “The best marketing is still a happy client talking about you.”
🔹 “Great events are a team sport—you can’t do it without the right people.”
🔹 “Presentation is part of the flavor—your eyes taste first.”
🔹 “We’re not just serving food; we’re creating moments.”
🔹 “When the market shifts, you can fight it or you can adapt—and we chose to adapt.”