Today we’d like to introduce you to Rayford Tate.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Rayford. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
My story is typical of most who enjoy cooking. It started in the kitchen of my mother; Velma Ruth Tate. Since I was the youngest, I was tasked with “stirring the pots & adding a pinch of this and that.” At the time I didn’t realize I was learning a skill that would I use later in life. Those times in the kitchen often were surrounded by laughter, which made it enjoyable to assist my mother.
As I got older and ventured off to college, I would cook for friends on campus every now and then. But, it was when I moved back home to San Antonio, that I would read recipe books and try to prepare dishes that interest me. If I went to a restaurant and had a dish that I liked, I would come home and try to remake it, but add my own spin to it. I’d cook for the holidays, parties or any other event to showcase my skills to others.
After receiving a request to cater a few events for friends, I decided to step out of the comfort zone and take on new ventures. I didn’t have a name for my company at the time, but I knew I wanted to honor my mother, which is where VRuth comes from. After catering a few small events, I have taken on a Banquets, Family Reunions as well as started a Meal Prep Service.
Has it been a smooth road?
Overall, I’d have to say it’s been a few bumps here and there, but not that many. My biggest hurdles have been trying not to take on too much work. I initially started without a Serving Staff and that was very challenging. I have since established a team of Friends who assist me when I have larger events. I’ve also learned to not overextend myself.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with VRuthCatering – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
VRuthCatering is a small Catering Company that maintains a Customer Service driven philosophy. I am owner and Chef. I create the recipes, prepare the food, deliver and set-up as needed. We pride ourselves with working with each individual and creating a menu that’s designed to fit what the Customer is looking for: Great tasting food, Sizable Portions, Economically Feasible. We truly believe that is what sets apart from others, you still feel like the service is Personable.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
The thing that stands out the most to me is the Diversity of Sugarland. It is what makes this one of the Top Five Cities to live in. It also offers a variety of places to dine and experience the different ethnic restaurants the city has to offer. The downside to being in the Top Five is that the city growing at a phenomenal rate and traffic is becoming a nightmare.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.velmaruthcatering.com
- Phone: 832-449-0306
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: www.instagram/vruthcatering
- Facebook: www.facebook/VelmaRuthCatering
Image Credit:
Primary Focus Photography
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.

Sabra Crawford
January 24, 2018 at 5:49 pm
You couldn’t have picked a better person to feature in your magazine, than Rayford Tate! I am one of his faithful meal prep clients and I look forward to seeing what exciting and tasty options he has for us each week! Everything I have purchased has been DELICIOUS!! Velma Ruth Catering is AWESOME!! You can’t go wrong with them!!! KUDOS AND KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!
T. Smith
January 24, 2018 at 6:18 pm
Had the pleasure of utilizing Velma Ruth Catering Service and all I can say is the food is exceptional! Chef Tate is professional and goes above and beyond to provide excellent service.