Catering Manager / HOST, Planner

Maria Lacape

**** ******** ****** *****

Parkland, FL 33076

Tel: 561-***-**** Email: **********@*****.***

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY:

Highly organized and service-focused hospitality professional with over 20 years of experience in restaurant and event management, catering, and client relations. Skilled in adaptive, off- premises event environments, consistently delivering exceptional service. Proven expertise in team management, vendor coordination, client relations, and sales. Known for a strong work ethic, diligence, and an ability to solve complex logistical challenges. Bilingual in Spanish and English, with working knowledge of Portuguese and beginner Italian. CORE COMPETENCIES:

• Event & Project Management: Expertise in planning and executing high-level events, including logistical coordination, vendor management, and budget oversight.

• Client Relations & Sales: Skilled in upselling, creating custom packages, and building lasting client relationships.

• Staff Training & Leadership: Experienced in hiring, training, and managing teams to maintain five-star service standards.

• Administrative Support: Proficient in scheduling, budget management, and inventory control.

• Communication & Problem-Solving: Strong people skills, adept at managing confidential information and resolving client issues diplomatically.

• Professional Singer: Classically trained soprano with performance experience, original compositions, and recordings.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:

Elite Ocean View Realty, LLC

Realtor Associate 01/2020 – Present

• Licensed realtor assisting clients with leases, rentals, and contract management.

• Maintained client relationships and managed sensitive information confidentially. City Chef Catering, LLC

Owner – Director of Sales 07/2014 – 03/2022

• Directed a team of 50+ employees, managing high-profile catering services for VIP clients and large-scale events.

• Coordinated logistics including transportation, staffing, menu planning, and vendor relations.

• Oversaw budgeting, inventory, and invoicing, consistently achieving financial goals and high client satisfaction.

Lulu’s Magical Rentals, Inc

Wedding & Event Planner 05/2007 – 06/2018

• Planned and executed customized weddings and events for clients domestically and internationally.

• Developed event themes, selected vendors, and managed budgets to create memorable experiences.

• Ensured all events met client specifications, resolving challenges with professionalism. Tommy Bahama (Palm Beach Gardens Mall)

Sales Associate 07/2006 – 11/2007

• Achieved highest sales record (non-commission) in a luxury retail setting, specializing in high-net-worth client relations.

• Provided tailored service, assisting with product selection and specific client requests.

• Maintained an organized, visually appealing storefront and led merchandising activities. Café Boulud, Palm Beach

Baking Cook (AM and PM) 04/2005 – 11/2006

• Managed inventory, sourcing, and baking for AM/PM shifts, ensuring quality and dietary compliance.

• Developed menu items for high-profile guests and events, maintaining ambitious standards in presentation and food quality.

Camino Real, Guatemala City

Culinary and Baking Apprentice 07/2002 – 07/2003

• Conducted menu planning, provisioning, and inventory management, focusing on dietary needs of high-profile guests.

• Supervised contractors for maintenance and detailing, ensuring ambitious standards in a luxury hotel environment.

EDUCATION & CERTIFICATIONS:

• Florida Culinary Institute, a Division of New England Tech Associate of Science Degree, Culinary Arts with Hospitality Management (2004) International Baking and Pastry (2005)

• Additional Certifications:

o Serve Safe Manager

o Licensed Realtor (Florida)

o Wedding and Event Planner

o Esthetician, Electrologist, Laser Technician

• Continuing Education: Specialty Thai Culinary Course (Bangkok, Thailand), with hands-on training in France and Spain.

References available upon request

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