Advice from Chef Enjolik Oree-Bailey of Low Country Quisine based in Dallas-Fort Worth
We interviewed Dallas-Fort Worth wedding caterer Enjolik "Jolie" Oree-Bailey, Executive Chef and CEO of Low Country Quisine, for how you can create an unforgettable wedding with the food you serve your family and friends.
Also, you're in for a real treat when you join Jolie on Facebook for a LIVE cooking session. Where she'll provide you with a menu and shopping list of ingredients beforehand. And then you can witness her passion for serving up delicious meals, and cook along with her as she demonstrates how exactly to make her delicious meals at home.
Photo courtesy of Enjolik "Jolie" Oree-Baily
1. Tell us who you are and what you do.
Enjolik “Jolie” Oree-Bailey, Executive Chef and CEO of Low Country Quisine. My company specializes in catering for weddings, social and corporate events. While we excel at many different “Quisines,” we are widely known for our Upscale Southern Comfort specialties like Shrimp & Grits, Chicken and Waffles, and our Buttermilk Pecan Fried Chicken to name a few. Clients and guests always comment that our food doesn’t taste like regular “catering.” As a wedding caterer in Dallas-Fort Worth, one of the major reasons our food stands out is because of our House Seasoning, A Dab A Do Ya! This is an "Everyday Seasoning” and it's available now for our customers to purchase and use in their own homes!
2. What is the MOST important thing couples should consider when choosing their wedding caterer?
Catering is usually one of the most expensive parts of planning a wedding. When couples are faced with spending thousands of dollars on one meal, quality has to be a top priority. It’s important to find a caterer that has the expertise to execute restaurant-quality food without the use of a full kitchen.
3. What is one secret you wish all couples knew about when collaborating with their wedding caterer?
As a custom caterer, oftentimes couples will ask us to recreate a family recipe. I’ve even had a phone conference with a bride’s Nigerian aunt to learn how to make the bride’s favorite dish so that we could serve it at their wedding! Many times couples don’t think this is an option, however, they should ask their caterer if this is a possibility for their special day!
4. How does the food served at weddings help to create an unforgettable wedding experience for their guests?
I always advise my couples to tell your love story through your menu. If your first date was at a pizza restaurant, consider mini pizza bites for a late-night snack. Or if you are from Texas and your significant other is from Louisiana, find ways to incorporate food from both of your hometowns. Food is a huge part of every celebration!
5. What should couples do or consider if they want to make sure everyone enjoys their meal?
In most cases, couples are inviting close friends and family to celebrate their special day. When choosing their wedding day menu, I think the couple should definitely select a menu that they personally will love.
However, it’s important to keep your guests' special dietary needs in mind. For example, couples should talk to their caterer about vegetarian/vegan, gluten-free, or pescatarian options. When possible, add variety to your menus. During cocktail hour, including meat, seafood, and vegetarian options. Or during the main course, ensure that there are beef and chicken as well as vegetarian options.
6. And finally, where can folks find you?
On my website at www.lowcountryqusine.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/lowcountryquisine
And Instagram: @Chef_Jolie_lowcountryquisine
