11/22/2024
This goes out to our Chef + GM Katie Hopkins for 5 years of being a light and an inspiration to me, Beau and our entire team .
Katie replaced Marissa as Catering Manager in 2019 – and then the pandemic hit. Ws struggled to find our grounding and purpose before redirecting to meal delivery, and eventually, the return of events. Then we lost Beau. Katie is a Chef, Caterer and Manager with an abundance of skill, passion and capability but when Beau passed away, it was her character and care that shined brightest.
I’ll never forget sitting with her in our then Hillsborough office, in what I now know to be one of the most vulnerable times in my life, and asking her if she wanted to, could, thought it wise, to continue the business. She looked right at me and said “yes, as long as you are with me”. I knew then she was a leader and an optimist. Beau trusted her palate and her opinion, and now we all do. By standing up and saying yes, she has carried Beau’s legacy and passion with and, more importantly, for me. She has made this company hers and is building her own legacy.
With all the heart and respect I have – and going into this season that was Beau’s favorite with his birthday, Thanksgiving and burning leaves – I want to share my complete gratitude and awe of Katie on her 5th anniversary. Thank you!
XO – Lauren
