Amazing Nashville Vendors ◦ CHEF’S MARKET

As I was photographing a Nashville bridal show I came across the most fabulous set-up, full of bold details and screaming at me of orange and gray awesomeness! After photographing all their little details I knew I had to interview Shannon, the Catering Director of Chef’s Market, about their fabulousness! Not only was the food amazing, their style and use of bold color had me hooked! Chef’s Market is also a part of StudioWed and I am so excited to be a part of such an amazing team, especially when it includes such tasty food :) 

Tell us the story of how Chef’s Market got started.

Inspired to provide chef quality food for causal in house café dining as well as cleverly packaged take away, food service industry veterans Cheryl and Jim Hagy opened Chef’s Market in August 1997.  The café offers an amazing selection of daily crafted soups, salads, entrees, and bakery items. A commitment to quality and a genuine desire to insure every guest experience is exceptional has earned Chef’s Market the Best Restaurant Award on Nashville ’s north side for many years as well as propelled Chef’s Market into the fastest growing off premise caterer in the Nashville Metropolitan area. WhenChef’s Market was featured on The Food Networks “Behind the Bash”, catering business really took off! How would you describe your style?

I like anything unique or different. When it comes to a concept, I try to read lots of magazines and blogs to see what colors seem to be popular for the upcoming year. The Pantone Fashion Color Report is a good resource! Gray has become such a popular neutral for this year, I knew I definitely wanted to use it. Then I saw an inspiration board that featured bright orange rock candy so I went from there. I love orange, it’s so vibrant and fun!

If you could contribute anything to a wedding day emergency kit, what would it be?

Oh goodness…nerve pills? Haha, just kidding! I think a straw to sip beverages through, so it doesn’t mess up your makeup!

What is your favorite vacation spot?

Anywhere warm, sunny, with water! I grew up spending a lot of time at the lake in the summertime growing up, so I just love the water! I am NOT a fan of cold weather, so needless to say I am ready for spring!

What is your favorite non-traditional wedding element?

I love it when brides incorporate personal items into the day. I had an awesome bride & groom this past May who met in a car accident! The bride said she knew immediately she was interested in him so she took a piece of the wreckage from the sight with her. When they married, they used it as their cake topper! What a great story to tell the grandkids.

As a caterer, what is one thing you think every bride should know?

Feed your guests!  A full crowd is a happy crowd!  If you don’t have the budget for a full meal afternoon is a perfect time for a dessert reception!  And, make it clear on your invitation what your guests should expect at the reception.

Nashville wedding photographer, Kristyn Hogan, documents the beauty, the life and the story of weddings and people in Nashville, Iowa and destinations worldwide.