CHRISTINE BILODEAU
Chef Christine Bilodeau has been in the corporate industry for over 15 years before she decided to turn her passion into her business. What started off as an intimate dinner party organization turned into a full house now running corporate, private and special events catering with a team of over 25 independent workers. If that's not impressive enough, she managed to do this with two young children at home. Christine is the true definition of a #GOSS. She proves that passion beats all odds, and if you work hard enough you can turn your dreams into reality.
Did you always know that you would become a Chef ?
It's funny because I always dreamed of becoming a Chef, I love to cook and new recipes come to me naturally. Everyone was telling me to start my own company but it never clicked that I could actually do this on a full time basis. Having come from the corporate world, working a 9-5 as a manager at Bell Canada with many employees under me, I had the organizational and business mindset. At the same time, I was always dreaming of running my own business, so it was natural to take both my passions and make it into one.
Unlike other catering companies, Chic Chef offers clients an experience like none other. They offer a creative and gastronomic menu inspired from world cuisine fused with Montreal's restaurants trends. Combining her chef talents with her love for the art of receiving, Christine offers the best of both worlds; a culinary journey with unique and personalized decorations that only Chic Chef can provide. Whether you are hosting a private event, an elegant dinner or a casual cocktail, the Chic Chef team will handle every detail. They are experts in transforming homes and private venues into the elegant event that you envision.
"I find catering companies usually focus on production and getting as much out as possible, where as instead we focus on the artistic side, the visual aspect."
Just the other week we did a wedding for a client who wanted us to re-create their favorite dishes from their trips around the world for their guests. We customized a six course setting from each different location they had traveled to. We made Vietnamese and Chinese dishes, to European and South African. It was spectacular and they loved it!
What do you specialize in ?
Personalised tapas bar to Wow your guests! From private to corporate events, we create a personalized menu and theme that suits your needs.
How do you balance it all ?
An amazing team that I can count on, a great husband, and my parents that are always their to support me.
What advice would you give aspiring entrepreneurs ?
If you are passionate about something just GO! You need to take action. Don’t wait for the perfect moment as it will never come, we have one life to live and it is short. You have the power to make the best out of it! Have confidence and trust in the process.
What are your future plans for the company ?
I want to develop the brand all over Quebec. I would like to eventually write a book, have an online store, expand my business in different markets. For now we can host up to 5 events a Saturday, my goal is to have 15 Chic Chef hosting their own events across Quebec.