We plan. We cook. You party.

FR | Custom Catering is a local one stop shop for stylish, fresh and unique catering services centered around the love of all things food.

What is FR | Custom Catering and how did it start? FR | Custom Catering is a one stop shop for stylish, fresh and unique catering services centered around the love of all things food. As chef + owner, I passionately believe that restaurant quality food can be made in every setting. We are a small, homegrown operation that uses only the best, freshest ingredients available and upholds sustainable practices throughout our work. I graduated from The College of Charleston, in 2010 and pursued my passion for hospitality and food by attending the International Culinary School at The Art Institute in Vancouver, BC. I took advantage of Vancouver’s diverse food scene - fine dining, farm-to-table and my favorite...a grilled cheese food truck - while working under several of the city’s most reputable chefs. After years of cooking and working in various cities (Vail, CO; Charleston, SC; Sydney, AUS), I returned home to Charlotte, NC where it all began. After working in sales and event coordination for a local catering company, my heart led me back in the kitchen. Recognizing a void in the Charlotte boutique catering market, I started FR | c u s t o m c a t e r i n g | in the winter of 2016. By combining three key ingredients - family, friends and food - I fulfilled a lifelong dream.

Francie Rudolph, head chef + owner of FR | Custom Catering

What specific services do you offer? FR | Custom Catering is a full-service Charlotte catering company providing amazing food and professional event planning services including: equipment rentals, décor and florals, staffing and beverage services.

How small of a group can book FR | Custom Catering...how large? What kinds of events do you specialize in? Whether planning a small intimate dinner party or a large corporate cocktail party, we are dedicated to making any size event unique and memorable.

We approach each event individually - with a fresh take on menu offerings - keeping the budget, mood and season in consideration. Each of our events typically starts with a home / site visit. We start with the big picture…going over the feel and flow of the event and ensuring both parties are on the same page. From there, we work on all the fun details including menu selection, set-up, presentation, linens, plates, silverware etc… Once the client gives us the final okay, our work begins.

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What is unique about you? Because I like to sample my wares, particularly the sweet ones, I find balance by running and also teach classes at HSM Core. My vice is a toss up between Ben and Jerry’s chubby hubby and the truffle fries at Foxcroft Wine Co. I enjoy helping clients pick wines and hold a level 2 certification from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust. I’ve run the Boston Marathon twice. I can’t live without the support of family, friends and strong coffee.

get partying!