Meet Alaina Kelly | Chef & Owner of Elwillie’s

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alaina Kelly and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alaina, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
At Elwillie’s Catering, our journey began with a simple yet profound inspiration: my grandmother’s home cooking and the cherished recipes passed down through generations. Growing up, the aroma of her kitchen and the taste of her lovingly prepared meals captivated my senses and ignited a passion for cooking within me.

My grandmother, Elwillie, was more than just a cook—she was a culinary artist who believed that great taste was the cornerstone of any memorable meal. Her encouragement and unwavering support fueled my ambition to pursue my passion for cooking and share the flavors of our family heritage with the world.

The thought process behind Elwillie’s Catering was deeply rooted in preserving the essence of my grandmother’s culinary legacy while infusing it with a fresh perspective and modern flair. We are committed to honoring her memory by upholding the same standards of excellence she instilled in me: using only the freshest, highest quality ingredients and preparing each meal with care and attention to detail.

Our goal is simple yet ambitious: to provide delicious cuisine that not only satisfies the palate but also nourishes the soul. Chef AK, our culinary maestro, brings years of experience and a creative touch to every dish, ensuring that each bite is a symphony of flavors that delights and inspires.

At Elwillie’s Catering, we believe that food has the power to bring people together, create lasting memories, and evoke a sense of joy and comfort. Whether we’re catering a wedding, corporate event, or intimate gathering, our mission remains the same: to exceed expectations and leave a lasting impression with every meal we serve.

Our thought process is driven by a commitment to excellence, a passion for great taste, and a deep-rooted appreciation for the culinary traditions that have shaped us. With every dish we prepare, we honor the legacy of my grandmother and the love she poured into her cooking, ensuring that her spirit lives on in every bite.

Welcome to Elwillie’s Catering, where tradition meets innovation, and every meal is a celebration of flavor and heritage.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Over time, my career and professional perspective has evolved as I’ve navigated the demands of hospitality business, entrepreneurship, personal commitments, career and self-care.

As a female chef, I aspire to be a leader in sustainability and social responsibility, championing ethical sourcing practices, reducing food waste, and giving back to the communities we serve. By prioritizing environmental stewardship and community engagement, we all should aim to leave a positive impact on the world around us and inspire others to follow suit.

Elwillie’s is not just about achieving success in the traditional sense, but about leaving a lasting imprint on the culinary landscape of hospitality. By touching the lives of others in a profound and meaningful way. As I continue on this journey, I remain steadfast in the commitment to excellence, creativity, and making a positive impact, both professionally and personally.

“If you can help someone along the way then your living is not in vain”. As my grandmother Elwillie use to say.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family, friends, community, my spiritual leader. The unwavering support and love is beyond words. The key word being love…

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.”
1 Corinthians 13:4-8

“You don’t choose your family. They are God’s gift to you, as you are to them.” –Desmond Tutu

My success has been to make others proud and creating a path for others to travel with minimal stumping blocks. It is the fuel that drives and motivates me.

A special shoutout to my sweetheart, Natalie, she has been by my side from sitting on top of the staircase making the decision to step out on faith, from going back and forth downtown to obtain the business licenses, from the first tasting, and being the driver of food deliveries etc. We don’t always agree on every move, but thank you for believing in me, and trusting the process

Special shout out to my Mom, Dad, and Sister (Rahsha) for being supportive in every way. From investing, to help serve, to help with set up and breakdown at any event.

Shout out to my Bishop OC Allen III. Thank you for being you. Leading and guiding us to live in our true authenticity through the Word. Teaching us to love ourselves as God loves us; Moreover, we have a space, a place and purpose.

Shout out of appreciation to all clients. Whether you booked an event, bought a plate, bought any gear, searched the website, passed along as a referral, or like/comment on any social media platform. You are a part of my success. I sincerely appreciate you!

Website: www.elwillies.com

Instagram: Chef_AK1 & Elwillies324

Twitter: Chef_AK1

Facebook: Alaina Kelly & Elwillies LLC

Image Credits
Naturally Divine Photography (Natalie Martin) JuMedia (Julian Davison)