Today we’d like to introduce you to Eric Wells
Hi Eric, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My passion for cooking came from my mom. I cooked with her for many years, especially during the holidays. My mother was a masterful cook, artfully pairing herbs and spices to create marvelous dishes. She, however, became very ill during the 90’s and passed away in 2003. One of her final statements was for me to take this gift of cooking “to the next level”. So, my family decided to use my mother’s insurance monies to send me to culinary school. After being the first African American to graduate from my culinary school, I started my private chef business. Skye LaRae’s is now the leading private chef service in Northeast Ohio.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has not been easy. As a private chef, I felt that I was not respected as a ‘real’ chef because I did not have a brick and morter. So, in 2011, I was presented an opportunity to open a restaurant in Cleveland. Due to lack of knowledge and experience, it failed 3 days prior to opening. I was lost. I was devastated. I put thousands of dollars into the space, and lost it all. I went through a serious depression. However, God, through His Spirit, kept me. He spoke into my spirit and told me to continue to trust Him. My trust in Him is all I had and persevered.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a private chef, I specialize in creating Intimate Dinners for Two for couples. I go to couple’s homes and do a six course romantic dinner. I provide the inens, flowers, candles, China, cookware and, of course, food. I serve the dinner to the couple like they are in a restaurant. Then I clean the kitchen after dinner.
I have had the pleasure of doing over 3000 Intimate Dinners for Two in Northeast Ohio. I also teach cooking classes, do hors d’oeuvres parties and cater large events.
My service sets me apart from others. I am all about relationships. I am not just cooking for couples and leaving. Throughout the evening we are conversing about how the couple met, their wedding, their favorite restaurants, their dream vacations, etc. We’ve shared so many stories that by the end of the night, we have become best friends.
I am most proud of the impact I have had in the African American community. I volunteer and give back to community centers, non-profits and charitable organizations often. I also share stories of encouragement to youth in schools.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
The importance of service in the food industry has waned since COVID. I hope to see a change back to true service: meeting and exceeding the customer’s needs.
Pricing:
- Intimate Dinner for Two $250-$300
- Cooking Classes $55-$75 per person
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.skyelaraes.com
- Instagram: @Skyelaraes
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/chefericwells
- Youtube: Chef Eric Wells
