A real world Personal Chef: interview with Dinner Bella

This week we feature an interview with M. Nina Piccini, owner of Dinner Bella Personal Chef service(Rochester, NY)  to give you an insight into the everyday life of a real Personal Chef.

When and where did you start your personal chef business?

Dinner Bella, Personal Chef Service was started in Rochester, NY around June of 2009.  At least the concept started in June.  It took me until the beginning of September 2009 to get all of my certifications and licensees in place and then I was actually able to start cooking and catering.

Which are your regular clients? Which service they request more: meal service (cooking and packing for the week) or in-place cooking (cooking in their kitchen, i.e. for a dinner)?

My regular clients are people who want healthy eating alternatives. One of my clients decided to use my service over Nutrisystem.  They are getting tasty, portion controlled food without all the preservatives. Because of my “nutrisystem” client, I have revamped most of my entrees to be less than 500 calories which means healthy eating for all!  Another client is a Hemodialysis patient.  Together we designed a menu plan that was high protein but less salt and potassium.  I love coming up with new recipes that delight his palette but stay within the dietary requirements!
After four months in business, the majority of my clients prefer a weekly or bi-monthly service. I look forward to doing more catering and parties!

What are your suggestions for who is starting a cooking business?

- Do your homework!  Talk to as many personal chefs as possible and learn about their financials before entering into business.

- Be pragmatic.  It will take you at least a year to get your business going full time, so don’t be disappointed when it doesn’t take off in two months like the cooking academy suggests.  (Despite excellent networking, social media savvy and having lots of contacts, my business is growing slower than I anticipated- and I know how to work the system).

- Think positive.  No matter what people say, (and believe me, everyone has something to say) keep moving forward with your dream.  You are getting into this business because you love to cook, create and make people smile.  Make your dream a reality by finding people that will mentor you, and offer advice in a positive, constructive manner.  You can do this!

- Listen! There are lots of “old sea dogs” that will tell you can’t do this or that- listen because they did something right to become an “old sea dog” but don’t be afraid to step outside the box and try new things!!

Do you think it is useful a worldwide booking platform for personal/private chefs?

Yes! Competition is good!

What do you expect from that?
A site that both customers and chefs can go to.  Customers will be able to search for chefs in their area to cook, cater, or offer advice.  Chefs can network with other chefs and share best practices.

You can find more on Dinner Bella Personal Chef service on their website, some great tips on the Blog or get in touch through the Facebook page !

Contact information:
Dinner Bella Personal Chef Service
Rochester, NY, 14609
585-339-8848

If you still didn’t register for Cheferia closed beta, request a free invitation here!
(Cheferia is a platform for personal and private chef promotion and booking)

And you? Want to share your Personal Chef story? Just contact us!