In a world increasingly attuned to the benefits of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the farm-to-table movement has emerged as a beacon of culinary innovation and sustainability. This approach not only emphasizes the importance of quality ingredients but also fosters a deep connection between food producers and consumers. As more individuals seek healthier options and meaningful dining experiences, catering companies are stepping up to meet this demand, creating menus that celebrate the rich flavors of their communities.
One shining example of this movement is Catering Done Wisely, a remarkable catering company that embodies the principles of farm-to-table excellence. Founded with a heartfelt mission to honor family traditions and promote health-conscious dining, Catering Done Wisely expertly bridges the gap between local farmers and discerning palates. Under the visionary leadership of its owner, Shanay Wise, the company has cultivated a menu that not only showcases fresh, organic ingredients but also highlights the rich tapestry of flavors inspired by Shanay’s diverse culinary background.
A Culinary Journey Rooted in Heritage and Community
Growing up as a military brat, Shanay was immersed in a diverse mosaic of ethnic cuisines, igniting her passion for cooking from a young age. With a spoon in hand, before she could even walk, she developed an early love for the culinary arts.
Her unique upbringing also included time spent in the countryside, where she was surrounded by an extended family that cherished the art of grilling, smoking meats, and baking exquisite desserts. These experiences deeply influenced her cooking style, shaping her desire to prepare and serve delicious, homegrown dishes that reflect her rich heritage. Shanay’s commitment to quality and flavor shines through in every dish she creates, making her catering services a celebration of the vibrant, diverse flavors she holds dear.
Shanay Wise is a proud graduate of Paul Quinn College, where she earned a degree in liberal arts, fundraising, and philanthropy. She attributes much of her success in the catering industry to her time at the HBCU, noting that it equipped her with “the knowledge to launch another company.” Originally from Killeen, TX, she attended Killeen High School, where her passion for community engagement began to blossom.
A Standout Figure in the Culinary World
As the Owner and CEO of Catering Done Wisely, Shanay also serves as a Community Advocate through The Wise Advocacy Project. Her dedication to her craft and community was recently recognized at the Iota Phi Lambda Sorority’s Psi Chapter 50th Anniversary Business Month Education & Scholarship Awards Luncheon, where she received the prestigious Dorothea N. Hornbuckle Business Entrepreneur Award. A consummate professional, Shanay is known for her preparedness, organization, and unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional service to her customers, making her a standout figure in the culinary world.
Keeping the Traditions Intact
Catering Done Wisely was established in 2008 as a heartfelt tribute to Shanay Wise’s late grandmother, Beulah. The company’s mission was clear: to offer a healthy and fresh menu for all occasions. It all began with a single recipe—a beloved 7-up pound cake that Shanay had watched her grandmother bake countless times. Initially, the catering business focused on providing hearty dishes for major events, but life took an unexpected turn when they faced housing challenges. Following the foreclosure of their home, all of their equipment was placed in storage.
However, fortune smiled upon them when an opportunity arose to become a vendor at Paul Quinn College’s farm. Shanay was invited to supply pickles, sweet breads, and cakes, marking the inception of her farm-fresh product line. This venture allowed her to promote her healthy menu and create daily sellable items, all while honoring her grandmother’s legacy.
In 2018, after a challenging period of fighting for stability, Shanay and her family purchased a home in the heart of South Dallas. With renewed focus, they returned to their catering roots but with an exciting twist—their new product line helped solidify their brand identity. Catering Done Wisely thrived, yet the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic forced them to pivot once more. Shanay transformed her business model, evolving from a traditional caterer to a provider of daily essentials with a farm-fresh twist. They expanded their product offerings from 11 to 37 items, all while maintaining a commitment to quality.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Catering Done Wisely not only survived but flourished, securing a contract with a corner store and a local farm to sell their farm-fresh product line. With a steadfast goal to continue building her brand, Shanay remains dedicated to catering special events while consistently adding new, high-quality farm-fresh items to its menu. Catering Done Wisely proudly embodies a farm-to-table philosophy, emphasizing the use of local farms and stores to source the healthiest ingredients for superior freshness and exceptional taste at every event.
A Celebration of Local Flavors
The Farm Fresh product line distinguishes Catering Done Wisely from other catering companies, reflecting Shanay Wise’s commitment to quality and sustainability. By intentionally sourcing ingredients from local stores, farmers, and vendors, the company prioritizes organic and fresh products, ensuring every dish is infused with the essence of the community.
Among the standout offerings on its Farm Fresh menu are items that Shanay takes great pride in—products cultivated and harvested from her own garden. For instance, the El Dip FrÃo de Jalapeño features her homegrown pickled jalapeños, bringing a personal touch to this delightful dish. She incorporates her very own basil, dill, oregano, and tarragon, along with homemade extracts, which elevate the flavors and authenticity of her creations.
Throughout the challenges of the COVID-19 climate, Shanay and her team have excelled in adapting their business model to meet the needs of their customers. This ability to innovate while remaining rooted in local sourcing and freshness underscores Catering Done Wisely’s dedication to providing exceptional culinary experiences.
A Celebration of Local Bounty and Shared Stories
As Catering Done Wisely looks toward the future, the horizon is bright with opportunities for growth and innovation. Shanay Wise’s unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and community connection positions the company to not only expand its product offerings but also to deepen its relationships with local farmers and producers. With plans to introduce new seasonal items and explore collaborative partnerships, Catering Done Wisely aims to continually enhance its farm-fresh menu while staying true to its roots.
Shanay remains dedicated to educating her customers about the benefits of farm-to-table dining and the importance of supporting local agriculture. The company’s resilience during challenging times has laid a solid foundation for future endeavors, including potential workshops and events that celebrate local cuisine and culinary traditions.
As Catering Done Wisely embarks on this exciting journey, it promises to uphold its mission of honoring family heritage and delivering exceptional culinary experiences that reflect the rich tapestry of flavors found within the community. With a heart full of passion and a vision firmly grounded in sustainability, Shanay and her team are poised to make an even greater impact, ensuring that every meal served is not just a dish, but a celebration of local bounty and shared stories.
