You know how the saying goes, “you are what you eat,” well if that’s true, I’d like to be one of Annie Campbell’s platters! Annie, a former actor, decided that food was her passion about 7 years ago, and her company was born. Annie designs the most spectacular food platters, from fruit and cheese, to vegetables and dip, whatever she creates is a masterpiece. Annie and her husband work together to create the perfect party from start to finish, covering table design, decor and catering. Each party is unique, and thematic in the chicest way, always delivering eye swooning photos of mouth watering plates! I can sit on her Instagram for hours in awe of her creativity, and the beauty of each table she sets. Annie is as cool as they come, the kind of girl you can easily be friends with, which makes her perfect for the entertaining industry.
How many years have you been in business in LA?
I have been in business for 7 years.
How did you get your start and what was your initial inspiration?
I love throwing parties. The adage “do what you love” inspired me to work in the world of food and entertaining, though I didn’t know the exact path that would be. One day, my friend Amy Blessing recommended me as a “caterer” though I had never done it before. When called to do a party for sixty the following day, I said yes and stayed up all night cooking. The next day I went to the party by myself, made all of the food, passed hors d’oeuvres and, luckily, it was a big hit. I was invited back. From there we have organically grown a word of mouth business.
What do you feel differentiates you from others in your field?
We are unique in that we offer both catering and party planning services so we can envision and execute an event from start to finish. We also have a clear point of view that aims to be cozy with impeccable service.
What do you feel gives you longevity in this big city with so many options?
We have very personal relationships with our clients and are lucky enough to be invited back into their homes time after time. I do my best to listen to their preference, anticipate their needs and give thoughtful attention to the details. I care very deeply about creating positive, memorable experiences for our clientele and their guests, and as a result our clients are very generous with their referrals.
How do you positively impact your clientele?
I hope that we ease the potential stress of entertaining and help them throw fun and delicious parties to celebrate with friends and family.
What is your favorite part of your job?
I love that we get to do something new every day. Each party is so different from the other, as they are each inspired by the host, home, occasion and season.
What is your favorite secret LA spot?
The Mulholland Tennis Club.
How do you benefit mamas?
Moms have their hands full and throwing a party is a lot of effort! I have so many clients who are very good cooks but when we help with the planning and catering, they truly get to relax and enjoy their friends, which is the ultimate point of entertaining!
What is the most memorable feedback a client has given you?
On that very first job, my client, who has since become like family, told me “You’re a very good chef.” That blew my mind as I am so not a chef, and very much a home cook. His confidence in me, gave me the confidence to take my food into others’ homes.
Pay it forward and name your top colleagues in the same field or related field:
Peggy North of Fire and Creme, Whoa Nelly for catering and Helen’s for all things wine.
What is the best advice anyone's ever given you? Or what is your "mantra" / words to live by?
Advice: Hire people who are better than you.
Mantra: I can do anything for a day.
As moms, the day can escape us, what is your best time-saving trick?
Delegating. And Dry Bar.