Our Story
Stems: Cheese, Charcuterie & Catering is dedicated to crafting Beautiful Bites for Big Appetites. Founded in March 2020 by a visionary trio—a daughter, mother, and grandmother—their journey began with the aspiration to empower individuals to become exceptional home entertainers. However, as time has progressed, they have transformed from merely a catering company into a powerful force for social impact. Their mission is to bring people together through beautiful, delicious, and creative experiences by collaborating with underserved artisans from the BIPOC, womxn and other marginalized communities to amplify their work and voices.
Stems isn't just about food; it's about fostering a sense of community and a platform for empowerment and inclusivity. We are more than just an innovative catering company; we are your all-in-one destination for hosting memorable gatherings with a passionate commitment to collaborating with traditionally underserved makers. Through these partnerships with various vendors, including floral, decor, bar & beverage specialists and so much more, we go beyond traditional catering to curate remarkable experiences.
Our Food Philosophy
Fusion of Heritage, Sustainability & Artistry
Our culinary journey is a heartfelt homage to the rich tapestry of flavors and traditions inherited from our Black and Italian roots. We believe in the power of food to connect, comfort, and celebrate the diversity of our heritage.
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Rooted in Tradition, Crafted for Today: We draw inspiration from California's rich, seasonal ingredients, infusing them with the warmth of Southern comfort and the elegance of Italian cuisine to create visually stunning, memorable dining experiences while paying homage to my Black and Italian Heritage.
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Local at Heart, Global in Spirit: In our commitment to sustainability, we turn to our local producers and farmers, ensuring that every ingredient we use is not just fresh, but also nurtures the community and the environment. This practice not only honors our heritage of resourceful and conscientious cooking but also allows us to contribute positively to our planet.
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Big Appetites, Beautiful Bites: We understand that great food is not just about satisfying hunger; it's about creating an experience. Our skillfully crafted bites are designed to delight both the eye and the palate, offering a feast that's as visually appealing as it is delicious.
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Comfort in Every Flavor: At the core of our philosophy is the belief that food should be comforting. Each dish we create carries the warmth of a home-cooked meal, reflecting the love and care that defines our heritage. We blend spices and ingredients in a way that feels like a warm embrace, ensuring that each event we cater leaves a lasting impression of comfort and joy.
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Together at the Table: We see our catering services as an opportunity to bring people together. In every event we cater, we aim to create an atmosphere of inclusivity and celebration, reflecting the communal spirit of our heritage. Our food is more than just sustenance; it's a reason to gather, to share, and to create memories that last a lifetime.
Services Offered
Cheese,
Charcuterie + Gifting
Take the Stems experience home with our cheese and charcuterie boards or one of our perfectly curated "Best Of" basket. Perfect for gifting, a romantic evening, a picnic, or for a foodie friend. Each board and basket is carefully curated to showcase the best products from around the Pasadena, Los Angeles and California.
Full Service Catering
Stems provides a comprehensive solution for all your event needs. This service includes not just the preparation and provision of a wide array of food and beverages, but also the setup, serving, and cleanup at your event. This also includes options for customized menu, tableware, linens, and decor to match the ambiance. It’s a hassle-free, all-inclusive approach to handling any gathering, be it a wedding, corporate event, or private party.
One-Stop Custom Events
We specialize in creating experiences that fit your unique needs and preferences. From small gatherings to large parties, we've got you covered and we can take care of all the details with our expansive services including floral, bar and bev, service, rentals and so much more!
Let us create a memorable truly curated experience for you and your guests.
