Today we’d like to introduce you to Alli Martens
Hi Alli, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My culinary journey began in childhood, cooking alongside my family, especially my father. He had a knack for taking our favorite dishes and elevating them at home with his unique flair, which is a major source of inspiration for me today. As I grew older, my passion for food expanded through my travels to countries like Spain, Italy, France, Mexico, and Indonesia. Each culture’s cuisine left its mark on me, and those influences come alive in my kitchen every day. My dishes are inspired both by my Texas roots and the diverse flavors I’ve encountered, allowing me to craft dishes that are both meaningful and delicious.
For me, cooking transcends being just a hobby; it’s a vital life skill. I soon realized that not everyone has had the opportunity to learn this craft, which prompted me to start sharing tips and inspiration on social media. However, it wasn’t until the birth of my son, Atlas, that truly inspired me to consider a professional path in cooking. Following the unexpected loss of my father, I felt even more called to share this gift he left me with. I began my business pursuit just weeks later in January 2022.
Over the past three years, I have been fortunate to create meals for families, provide dinner party entertainment, design beautiful seasonal catering spreads, collaborate with other chefs and businesses, and even cater wedding receptions. I love sharing my food and so many other aspects of what I do. I love that I am able to help families navigate their busy schedules by taking one task off their plate and I’m honored to be a part of some of my client’s most significant moments.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s definitely not been smooth! As a working mom, I often feel torn in several directions. I have navigated challenges every step along the way and I am my own worst critic, but I am thankful for every bit of support and encouragement I’ve received to fuel me onwards. Since starting my business, I have found the most profound network of support, more so than I ever imagined possible. I’m grateful for every friend who has become a client and every client who has become a friend. It is so special to me to work in a space where personal and professional lives can collide in such a beautiful way.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
It only felt right to name my business after my biggest inspiration in life, my son. The name Atlas means ‘ever enduring’ and both my son and my business were born at a time in my life where I felt the weight of the world on my shoulders. Naturally, these are the two things that inspire me to keep going every day.
My brand has taken on many specialties from healthy meal preps to elevated party grazing. We are most known for our unique grazing table style designed to ‘wow’ a crowd. We take quality ingredients and turn them into unlikely pairings and specialty small bites that not only taste delicious, but also become a beautiful and intriguing focal point for any event.
I am most proud of our attention to detail that sets us apart from your typical caterer. We are not only a food provider, we really contribute to the overall experience of your event.
What’s next?
My vision for Atlas’ Personal Chef is to continue catering luxury events and special occasions across Texas and nationwide in the coming years. My immediate goal is to build and lead a strong team that will support our expansion. Drawing from my teaching background, I feel inclined to share what I’ve learned in the culinary arts and through starting a business from the ground up. I also plan to share my recipes, cooking tips, and even my mistakes more consistently on social media. I hope that by doing so, I can help others nurture this life skill and nourish their families.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atlaspersonalchef/
Image Credits
Casey McDonald
Ellie B Photography
