What is something people don't know about you?
I'm a little obsessed with wine. Everything from the history of the winery, the process of making it, the grape varietal, the region it grows in, even the barreling; it all affects the grape. For me wine is like meeting a friend for the first time. Everyone is different, and getting to know someone is half the fun.

What excites you now in the food world?
In my eyes, Australia is the new frontier of food. Over the years, I have seen our cooking style grow, sophisticate and continually redefine. Aussie chefs are always willing to put their reputations on the line. They do this by exploring new flavors, fusions and pushing boundaries. The land lends itself to the freshest of produce. And, yes, we love a BBQ, but we also love the idea of using tradition to create something new.

Do you have an accent?
No, but everyone I run into over here does.

Why the big apple?
Three reasons: 1. Catcher in the Rye. Holden Caulfield is the coolest character I have ever met on the page. 2. I had a desire to be a stage actor for the longest time. Broadway has always called my name. 3. New York is a boiling pot of food. Where else can I walk out of my apartment and sample some of the best Italian, Japanese, Mexican, French, and American food in the world? Need I say more?

What is the coolest party you catered?
Picture this; 1,600 guests, Hockey Stadium turned Rock Stage, DJ suspended from the ceiling, food trucks parked on the carpeted rink, tasting stations from around the globe, and four large stations that descended from above into position for dessert. The theme was Rock n' Roll, and that is exactly what they did. Every single element of this party was thought through; from the staff’s black "crew" t-shirts to passed hors d'oeuvres served on glass-covered vintage vinyl records of Iggy Pop and Led Zeppelin. Such a fantastic experience; I'm excited again just typing this!

Why are you so passionate about events?
Great question. I grew up on stage from the age of four. My family loved the theatre and so did I. Fast track to today and events are my new theatre. The space, food, design, and music, all tell an intimate story with strong characters that make you laugh and sometimes even cry. That, my friends, is why!

stella@pinchfooddesign.com