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My Culinary Career
Gallery of Guests, Events & Media
Recommendations
I have been fortunate to be able to cook and help host many important meetings, dinner parties and holiday events with many national and international esteemed guests. Here is some of the feedback I have received:
"Michelle is one of the most talented chefs I’ve had the pleasure to work with and befriend. She masterfully adapts to any event regardless of the size, guest’s tastes, and ingredients she must acquire from around the world. Her work ethic is exemplary; no task is beneath her, she provides clear instruction for her staff, and ensures the food exceeds everyone’s expectations. She has a diverse knowledge of traditional and modern international cuisines. This lends to the countless successful events with foreign dignitaries, VIPs, and the US Embassy community in Moscow. Michelle’s passion impresses and satisfies one’s culinary desires."
Eric Pang
Information Management
Michelle's work is simply the best I have seen, not only in terms of food quality and presentation, but also because of her organizational and planning skills. She is an absolute delight to work with, and she will tailor her work to fit the occasion, the budget and the local culture. She is truly at the top of her profession! Highest recommendation.
Eric Rubin
Executive in the US Government
Chef Michelle! I love the reaction of my guests and clients at mentioning your name. Working with you over the past few years on events, large and small, you have always over delivered, exceeded expectations and created something special and memorable. I appreciate your exquisite sense of detail and taste and willingness to share your knowledge and experience. Looking forward to our next adventure!
Stacey Noel
Project Manager At SGN Business Solutions, LLC
If you are interested in more of my recommendations, please contact me.
Professional Experience
Innovative Chef with an exceptional record of customer service and international experience.
More than 20 years of experience in administration and cooking in restaurants, catering, and event coordination.
Quality Assurance
Expense Management
Capacity Planning
New Menu Items
Catering Services
Private Parties/Functions
Scheduling
Staff Hiring and Training
Ordering and Inventory Management
2000 - 2002
Graduated The Cooking and Hospital Institute of Chicago (Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Arts)
North America
Chicago, IL, USA
Associates of Arts & Sciences - Culinary Arts/Chef Training, specialty in Baking. Completed my Associate degree in Applied Science.
July 2003 - Dec. 2005
Chef-in-Residence for The Ragdale Foundation, Artists in Residence
Lake Forest, IL, USA
Provided private dinners to international up-scale clientele at an artists retreat for clients including Jacquelyn Mitchard, Audrey Niffenegger, Lawrence Block, and Mark Winegardner.
April 2017, October 2019
WSET Level 1 & 2 Certification
Castello di Potentino, Seggiano, Tuscany, Italy
Completed Levels 1 and 2 in education of wine appreciation, serving and identification.
Jan. 2006 - January 2022
Chef and House Manager for Deputy Chief of Mission
Embassy of the United States,
Moscow, Russia
For the last 16 years, I have worked for six Deputy Chiefs of Mission preparing and presenting all meals for them, State Department representatives and various foreign dignitaries. I have managed and coordinated all assigned activities for the DCM's residence, including scheduling, planning, preparation and oversight of residential staff.