Today we’d like to introduce you to Dawn Archer.
Alright, thank you for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, how did you get started?
I’m the founder, owner, and chef of Dawn to Dusk Catering and Personal Chef Service, where I bring a taste of diverse world cultures to the Jacksonville community. While working for lifestyle magazines, I traveled to many countries in Europe and Asia. Those experiences inspired my world cuisine menu. After relocating to Jacksonville, I began teaching cooking classes in 2014. My students appreciated my talent and personality. They encouraged me to launch my catering business!
2022 has been a banner year for Dawn to Dusk Catering as I became a partner of Airbnb, hosting entertaining and educational dinners for clients searching for a special experience in Jacksonville, Florida. In May, I made my American TV debut with Mother’s Day Brunch Cooking Demo and then again in November with a Holiday Cooking Series on local TV. Again in the limelight, my business was also selected as the face of Meta’s ‘Good Ideas Deserve to be Found’ official campaign. I was honored to become a member of Womens Food Alliance.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s never an easy journey to become an entrepreneur, especially under current economic conditions. Costs for running my business are rising across the board, from supply and utilities to fees charged by other platforms. At the same time, I want to ensure I deliver a consistent level of quality and attention to my clients without charging a significantly higher fee. Many of my clients have a longstanding relationship with Dawn to Dusk Catering. I have celebrated anniversaries, birthdays, and personal milestones with them, so they always think of me when an occasion calls for catering. I want to be there for their special moments too. I am currently seeking a long-term solution to keep costs down, without compromising quality.
We’ve been impressed with Dawn to Dusk Catering, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I have always been a highly creative person. I consider cooking a form of art; it’s how I express myself. At the same time, I listen to the diners and what they want. My clients are impressed by my ability to be flexible and create a menu according to their desires. The world is my menu, no limitations.
I always put very personal approach into my service. It’s not about showing off my skills. I don’t take shortcuts when it comes to flavor. I use the best seasonal ingredients and am always testing new recipes and techniques to make each ingredient shine. My team and I are eager to create your next beautiful memory by combining a professional culinary experience with unique touches from a local family-operated business.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Around the country, a growing community of people are adopting specialty diets such as keto, gluten-free, dairy-free, pescatarian and veganism. I endeavor to accommodate my clients’ dietary needs to develop customized menus versus watered-down versions of regular dishes. Instead, I introduce them to delicious appetizers, entrées, and desserts that naturally fit their preferences.
My services have been utilized by a variety of professions, to include, but not limited to the world of NFL athletes, professional ballroom dancers, musical events, etc.
My vegan curry and potstickers are a hit at every event, even amongst carnivores. Regarding dessert, I created recipes for gluten-free/vegan cupcakes and keto cheesecakes that taste as good as the real thing.
Catering for special diets is a trend that will continue to grow in the next decade. Who knows what we’ll be eating by 2033?
Pricing:
- Pricing is based on the customized menu and current cost of ingredients.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.dawntoduskcater.com
- Instagram: @dawnarcherzh
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dawnzcatering
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-archer-350b7436/
