A FORMER Uttoxeter hairdresser has turned her passion for food into a new career offering perfect catering for a variety of occasions.
Karen Owen, of Moisty Lane, Marchington, launched Soiree Food at the beginning of September offering a personal, bespoke service for different occasions from business conferences to birthday parties and has already seen a successful first month.
The 42-year-old was a successful hairdresser at various salons in the town before going self-employed and finally finishing as a stylist just before Christmas to change her career path.
She decided to start her own catering company after noticing a gap in the market while organising a celebration for her husband’s 40th birthday and her wedding anniversary.
The mother-of-two said: “I started hairdressing because the children were small and it was at home but now they have grown up I have decided on a career change.
“I have always had a passion for food and I love to entertain and see people enjoying themselves.
“I noticed a niche in the market after I struggled to find a caterer for my husband’s 40th birthday and our 10th wedding anniversary.” In preparation for her business launch, Mrs Owen has attended courses with the Raymond Blanc Cookery School and Seasoned Cookery and investigated suppliers and packing firms.
In her first month, she has won the business for the small corporate lunches at Uttoxeter Racecourse, catered for a firm in Ashbourne and had enquires from businesses on Fradley Park, near Lichfield.
“Thanks to Uttoxeter Racecourse we have done well in the first month,” added Mrs Owen. “I have also been around Dovefields estate and had some interest from businesses there and also catered for my friend’s father’s funeral.
“My followers on Facebook and Twitter are steadily growing.” Mrs Owen specialises in business lunches and private parties and the food can be prepared at the client’s house and she will provide the service or can be delivered depending on what kind of service is required.
More information is available by phoning Mrs Owen on 07790 394123, visiting http://www.soireefood.co.uk/, visiting the Facebook Page entitled Soiree Food, morsels of deliciousness or the Twitter page @Soiree Food.
