Making memories and connections through food
The Inspiration Behind VIP & ME
Every great story has its roots, and mine begins with two extraordinary individuals who inspired the creation of VIP & ME: my grandmother, Mary Johnson, affectionately known as "Mawmaw" to myself and the rest of her grandchildren, and the celebrity makeup artist Sam Fine, who has worked with icons like Tyra Banks, Iman, and Naomi Campbell. While it may seem like an odd pair, both played pivotal roles in shaping this luxury in-home dining service.
The seed of this journey was planted in my childhood when I would visit my grandparent's farm in tiny Jackson, North Carolina. My grandparents grew organic vegetables and raised free-range chickens and other livestock long before farm-to-table was a trend. My grandmother, an excellent cook, made everything using the freshest ingredients from the land. And yet, her cooking wasn't just about the food. It was about the love and care she poured into each dish.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, my extended family and I stayed connected through conference calls. It quickly became evident that the bond created through the meals my grandmother made was still strong, as our conversations inevitably revolved around her special dishes. I realized that these precious memories of her cooking were not mine alone; they were cherished by all of us. Her food had the power to bring people together, create lasting memories, and transcend generations.
Her influence was profound, but another pivotal moment in my life brought the idea of creating exceptional experiences into sharper focus. About 20 years ago, I had the opportunity to have a private makeup lesson from celebrity makeup artist Sam Fine. I was thrilled to be glammed up by the same makeup artist who had worked with icons like Tyra Banks, Iman, and Naomi Campbell. I was as giddy about the prospect of meeting him as I was about the tutorial itself.
But life had other plans. On the day of my makeup lesson with Sam Fine, one of my children fell sick, and I missed my shot in Sam's makeup chair (but I also know I made the right decision). Although the lesson didn't happen, the seed had been planted. Opportunities to interact with experts and industry VIPs – and escape the humdrum "everydayness" of our lives – were valuable, coveted, and possible.
These experiences taught me two valuable lessons. My grandmother taught me the beauty of creating with passion and the joy of sharing that with others. From the missed opportunity with Sam Fine, I realized the thrill and privilege of experiencing the work of someone who excels in their craft. This combination of heartfelt tradition and the excitement of expert artistry laid the foundation for VIP & ME.
This business expresses my desire to help others create memorable experiences with VIPs in their fields, such as the renowned makeup artist Sam Fine. I choose food as the medium for these unforgettable experiences because, as the legendary James Beard said, 'Food is our common ground, a universal experience.' By bringing together culinary masters and passionate individuals, VIP & ME aims to foster connections, celebrate special moments, and create lasting memories, just as my grandmother's cooking did for our family. Inspired by the excellence and dedication of experts like Sam Fine, we strive to offer unparalleled experiences that leave a lasting impact.
That's my origin story. It's the "why" behind everything I do. Here's why it matters to you.
Personalized Culinary Excellence: Our service is more than just a meal delivery; it's an immersive dining experience tailored to your tastes and preferences. Whether you crave the comforting simplicity of a meal made with love, like my grandmother's pot roast with gravy, creamiest lima beans, and gingerbread for dessert, or the sophisticated elegance of gourmet dining, like the exquisite caviar I first tasted at a French restaurant in Chapel Hill, NC with my college roommate and her parents, we cater to every palate. Our chefs, who are masters in their field, craft personalized menus that make every bite a masterpiece, ensuring a dining experience that is both memorable and unique.
Creating Connection: In a world where genuine connection is often lost, our service provides a unique opportunity to bring people together. Enjoying a luxurious meal prepared by an expert chef in the comfort of your home allows you to focus on building memories with loved ones without the hassle of preparation and cleanup.
Comfort and Convenience: Luxury shouldn't require compromise. Our in-home dining service offers the sophistication of fine dining without the need to leave your home. Whether it's an intimate dinner or a special celebration, we bring the restaurant to you so you can relax and enjoy every moment. Even if you lack the culinary expertise or the time to prepare such meals, you can still indulge in a top-tier dining experience crafted by professional chefs.
A Taste of Tradition: Every dish we create is a tribute to the time-honored techniques and pure, organic ingredients my grandmother cherished. We blend this rich tradition with modern culinary artistry to offer you an unparalleled dining experience.
Supporting Local Artisans: When you choose our service, you support local chefs and culinary talents who share our commitment to excellence. We believe in nurturing our community by highlighting the skills of local artisans dedicated to their craft.
Celebrating Gourmet Home Chefs: Even the most dedicated home chefs deserve a break to indulge in a luxurious dining experience. Our service provides the perfect opportunity for gourmet enthusiasts to enjoy the artistry and precision of professional chefs, allowing them to relax and savor a meal crafted with the same passion they bring to their own kitchens.
Nourishing Mind, Body, and Soul: We believe that food nourishes more than just the body. A well-prepared meal feeds the mind and soul, creating moments of joy, comfort, and connection. Our in-home dining service is dedicated to offering experiences that rejuvenate and inspire, leaving you satisfied on every level.
Our story is one of passion, tradition, and the pursuit of excellence. To bring VIP & ME to life, I have assembled an impressive team of personal chefs who create exceptional meals and share the rich stories behind them. Whether you're craving upscale, exotic cuisine or simple, farm-to-table dishes, we offer a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Celebrating an intimate dinner for two in a cozy studio or entertaining a crowd in a grand mansion, we cater to every space. We invite you to join us on this journey, where each meal is a celebration of heritage and a testament to the joy of experiencing the finest in culinary art.