Keswick Theatre

This weeks featured venue is the historic & amazing Keswick Theatre.http://www.keswicktheatre.com/ This incredible gem in Glenside is available for full facility rentals for seminars, concerts or large presentations of up to 1350 people to smaller intimate events or luncheons in the lobby or balcony areas. It is convenient to many major highways and there is ample parking in the area.

The theatre first opened its doors on Christmas night 1928 and is a Horace Trumbaurer design. Also the Architect of The Philadelphia Museum or Art & another local gem, The Elkins Estate. In 1955 the theatre was remolded into a cinemascope house and remained that, until it closed its doors and was slated for demolition in Spring of 1980. In 1981 it was reopened by a Not For Profit organization that helped have it placed on the Historic Registry in 1983. That group was unable to meet expenses & closed the theatre in December 1985. In March 1988 A private group purchased the theatre and reopened it as one of the leading venues of its type in the United States. They have been sucessful in building resoration and developing a fund to continue that work.

Provence Catering is proud to be a catering partner in this amazing venue. The possibilities are endless. Let us help create a theatre themed Bat or Bar Mitzvah, an elegant wedding, an exciting symposium or presentation or a small but intimate pre or post event reception for your VIP's. Feel free to contact donna@keswicktheatre.com or judith@keswicktheatre.com for further rental information. The venue is a great site for daytime events such as corporate lunches, family events and memorials. Tell them Provence Catering sent you!

The Knot & Pronovias select Provence as the exclusive caterer for their NYC Bridal Fashion Show on November 17th.

Provence Catering is proud to announce that they have been selected by The Knot to be the exclusive caterer for an upscale reception at the New York City flagship store for Pronovias. The Spanish wedding gown manufacturer from Barcelona is considered to be one of the world's finest designers and their 5th Avenue flagship store is the pinnacle of bridal fashion.
Once again, The Knot has reached out to Provence Catering to be their sole catering partner for this invitation-only reception for 250 discerning brides. We are honored to be the select caterer for this trendsetting event. Savvy brides understand and appreciate that this Pronovias reception is further confirmation that Provence Catering is now considered the premier wedding caterer in the region.

Whether it's catering the first wedding reception at the opulent-minded Elkins Estate in mid-October or being asked by The Knot to once again be their exclusive caterer or designing five-star elegant affairs like our highly-acclaimed "Lawn Barbecue Wedding" menu, Provence is shaking up the luxury wedding business throughout the region.

We will be sharing more information on this elite event in the coming days leading up to this VIP bridal fashion showcase.

Grand Days of Entertaining Revisited

On Thursday, September 24th Provence Catering was proud to be part of the Grand Opening Celebration for one of Philly's Hottest Venues! The Chestnut Club at 1529 Chestnut Street http://www.thechestnutclub.com/ celebrated an Oscar Award Evening complete with Orchestra & Velvet Ropes! The restored Arcadia Theatre was alive in its once grand & decadent fashion. Champagne was flowing & the guests were wining & dining to classic cocktails & great wines. Provence Catering teamed up with Franks Union Wine Mart http://www.frankswine.com/ to provide incredible libations. Our house special Mojito & Dirty Martini were a huge hit but the drink of choice that night was the Ruby Slipper which was chosen to fit the decor & atmosphere of this great venue. We are excited to be hosting a very special event at this incredible venue, The Chestnut Club, on Valentines Day 2010 celebrating the love of two very special committed couples. Contact Gene at Provence Catering for details. Gene@provencecatering.com

Exciting bridal news to be announced this weekend!!

Look for a very exciting announcement from Provence Catering this weekend on the bridal front as our culinary work and event planning is recognized as some of finest in the region. Please contact us for a private wedding consultation.

Lending Support to our Troops

Please note this touching story by a fellow hospitality professional! Provence Catering is proud to support the troops & their loved ones.
"Just after 911 my husband went over seas. I missed him very much and so did his kids. When I heard that the USO is collecting teddy bears to give out to the families of deployed soldiers I knew I had to get involved. The teddy bears (or other stuffed critters) are distributed to the loved ones when a family member is deployed. they are instructed to hug the bear every time they miss the deployed soldier"."This display of affection is a way for the loved ones to find some peace and comfort."
She has set a goal of collecting 2,000 teddy bears by January 1, 2010.Karen can be reached in her office: The Chestnut Club: 610-962-0111 if you have any questions.Please help and send a brand new teddy bear or other furry friend to:Karen PecoraPO Box 188Berwyn, PA 19312
No Matter what your views on world politics & the Military we cannot ignore or forget those who risk their lifes for our safety & their famalies! We at Provence Catering appluad their efforts & scarafice! Please do what you can & please always remember to say Thank You to a Vet!

Cancer Center dinner was a huge success

We had the honor last evening of catering a very high-profile dinner reception for the Cancer Center at the University of Pennsylvania. The doctors and administrators are the true heroes in the ongoing war against cancer. Their reserach is is saving lives everyday.

Our VIP guests raved about Provence's world class, gourmet food and elegant linens. "Everyone thought the food was scrumptious and we were very pleased with your staff. The table cloths were lovely and the perfect choice for the space and the event- elegant and added color. The hors d’oeuvres were delicious as were the entrees. Thank you for your attentiveness to every detail. The evening was a huge success."


The new Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine at Penn is the front line in this never-ending battle and the new research facility is remarkable. Provence has been selected to cater many events at this impressive new facility built on the site of the former Philadelphia Civic Center. This storied location is the site of many milestone events in Philadelphia's illustrious history. I remember seeing the Philadelphia 76ers with Wilt Chamberlain play a basketball game there in the late 1960's. I also saw the Grateful Dead there in the summer of 1974.

You can look for Provence to cater many future events at country's finest Medical School, the University of Pennsylvania.

Soiree In The City

This past Sunday's "Soiree In The City" at the incredible Power Plant Productions was amazing. http://www.powerplantproductions.com/ The incredible group of brides to be & vendors complimented this great venue & energy in the air! Over 200 Brides to be & guests attended this great event. Provence Catering was so excited to be asked to feature our foods along side of other great wedding professionals such as Laura Eaton Photography http://www.lauraeaton.com/, Beautiful Blooms Floral & Decor http://www.beautifulblooms.com/ , Queen Of Hearts Wedding Planning http://www.qohweddings.com/, Beke Beau Make-up http://www.bekebeau.com/, Elan Artists Entertainment and Synergetic Sounds Sound & Lighting. http://www.elanartists.com/ http://www.synergeticsounds.com/

The atmosphere was electric in the Power Plant Productions site with Brides seeking the finest fashions, make-up, food, beverage, jewelry & entertainment to create their perfect day. The raves continue for the Creme Burlee Filled Strawberries & The Salty Truffle Popcorn that accented the array of sweets provided by Maron Candies, and Ann's Cake Pan. The Soiree Fresca which was created for this great event was the beverage sensation. The light and refreshing compliment to this great day! We are looking forward to next seasons "Soiree In The City" and loving the relationships developed at this years event & the brides we met this day.



We look Forward To Next Seasons Soiree In The City!
If you missed this seasons event be sure to look for information on the the next one on our website http://www.provencecatering.com/ or blogs http://www.positivelyprovence.com/ & http://www.guiltypleasuresclub.com/ or follow us on Face Book or Twitter

Provence was once again honored to cater The Dean's Staff Breakfast...

Nothing is more exciting than catering a large scale event at world's first and finest business college, The Wharton School. For the second week in a row we were in the limelight at Huntsman Hall catering a high profile reception for over 300 guests.



This week's event was the Dean's Staff Breakfast. It's one of our favorites since we LOVE breakfast and we get to spoil people who really mean a lot to us. I am constantly amazed how many people seek me out to express their appreciation for our work. All of them say hi with a big beaming smile on their faces. They really love Provence's food and they love our staff. We certainly love them.

Our client in the Dean's office sent me an email early this morning telling my how thrilled she was with yesterday's staff event. Her praise was very rewarding. She wrote,"The breakfast was wonderful and met all my expectations! Everything looked beautiful and tasted wonderful. Provence is truly an exceptional caterer."

It's a wonderful to deliver a five star dining experience to a five star client. We want to express our sincere appreciation to the Dean's Staff. There is no more professionally managed university program in the country than The Wharton School.

The Elkins Estate

The Grand Opening of The Elkins Estate was a huge success! Over 200 guests enjoyed a night filled with dancing and singing! Our asparagus, mushroom and cheese brioche was an incredible hit. The warm bread pudding was served with a sweet roasted garlic cream sauce. Yum!

courtesy of kevin york photography

Our reasons for success are...

There are so many people responsible for our success at Provence Catering. From the utility team to the operations crew to the accounting department to the best chefs in the business to a sales organization that always puts the client first, we know how to truly rock, went it's time to roll.
Having a world class organization on all fronts is another reason why Provence should be your caterer. Our professionalism and sense of corporate responsibility are second to none. We look forward working with you on your next important corporate, university or social event.

Power Plant Productions

In the heart of Olde City sits a gem of a property. An industrial, artsy & beautiful venue for social & corporate events, as well as photo shoots. Power Plant Productions. With its 1920's steel beams, brick walls, old world heart pine floors & 25 foot ceilings it is an amazing venue.

Complete with a food photography kitchen & cyclorama for photo shoots this venue is as diverse as it is beautiful! Check them out at http://www.powerplantproductions.com/. Tell them Provence Catering sent you. Come see it this Sunday for "Soiree In The City" one of the seasons hottest bridal planning & fashion events. http://www.soireeinthecity.com/

Two on-campus tastings and it looks like two new university clients.

Yesterday was very active day for Provence Catering on the business development front as we had several very important tastings at two prestigious local colleges. One event was in New Jersey and the other one, in the Philadelphia suburbs. Both events were a huge success and hi-profile events are already being discussed.

Provence has developed a well-earned reputation as being the area's premier on-campus, hi-end caterer. Our best and most creative work is yet to come.

College campuses are the place to be if you looking for independent-minded people and the free-exchange of new ideas. Fortunately, we have the opportunity to experience this miracle everyday. Just being on-campus makes you smile and meeting the people you meet, makes you proud.

From the esteemed scholars to spirited students to the exceptional event planners to the dedicated administrative staff to the hardworking facilities team, colleges enrich America everyday. Their innovation and energy are truly our daily salvation.

We welcome back the best of the best, The Wharton MBA's...

Spruce Street is jammed and 38th Street is jumpin. The fall semester is underway and independent thought is flourishing again along Lotus Walk. Is there a more more vibrant and important urban college anywhere in the world than the University of Pennsylvania? Mr. Franklin would be very proud of his policy-setting brainchild.

Upenn is the home of the world's first and most innovative college of business, The Wharton School. Their esteemed faculty, progressive leadership and dedicated administrative staff are the foundation of this center of excellence. Dean Tom Robertson is a business icon and the visionary leader of leaders. Only the best of best grace these hallowed halls.

Is there anything more impressive or bankable degree than a Wharton MBA?

Provence Catering is very proud and truly honored to be catering this evening's "Welcome Back
MBA's" Reception for 550 guests.

Remember, at The Wharton School, only the best of best will do.

Elkins Estate

Provence Catering is so excited to be doing the first wedding at the beautifully restored Elkins Estate. It is truly a timeless destination with endless possibilities! It is rich in architecture, history & charm. Situated on 42 acres, it is the perfect setting for an incredible wedding or corporate retreat. You can contact them or reserve a spot at one of the frequent open houses at: 215-782-8520 or events@elkinsestate.org.

From the grand gated entrance, to the perfectly restored wood & tile work, to the SEVA retreat, this is the perfect setting for letting the creative & romantic energies flow. http://www.elkinsestate.org/ This Saturday is the Opening Gala & tickets are still available. We are honored to be part of the elite group of caterers presenting great cuisine & decor at this event.

Always a cocktail party favorite, "Michael's Franks"

Everyone loves Cocktail Franks. In fact, they are the most popular of all hors d'oeuvres. Bar none!

Numero Uno, if you are keeping score.

No matter how high-end the affair, no matter how "shi shi" the soiree, no matter how elegant the event, those little doggies are treated like VIP's.

Most catering companies offer their customers a pre-made product. They just open a box from the freezer, pop'em in the oven and they're good to go. No labor. No fuss. No muss. No Soul.

Our approach to doggie delirium is the other side of the coin. The one that really shines. We offer our discerning clientele"Michael's Franks." Our chefs lovingly make this tasty hors d'oeuvre in-house and only Kosher or Kobi beef hot dogs will do. There's definitely labor costs, but it's money well spent. More importantly, there's certainly soul as they are handcrafted four your reception. You might call that fuss, we call it custom-to the-client catering. From 1 to 10,000, they are identical delights and a real crowd pleaser.

"Michael's Franks" from Provence Catering is a far superior menu option than the frozen appetizers you will find elsewhere. Our chef's handwork, presentation style and culinary expertise, makes them one of our most frequently requested cocktail party delicacies.

Eating them in moderation is almost impossible since they are soooooooo yummy. Whereas, scarfing them down with a spicy mustard and an icy cold Victory ale is a always party favorite.

For your on-campus events, those little customer service extras from Provence Catering make all the difference...

The fall semester is now underway at local colleges and there are numerous events on local campuses being catered by Provence. The flurry of activity really picked up this week as a new client, a prestigous university, asked us to cater three events for one of their premier colleges. According to the Dean's Executive Assistant, "This is just the beginning and there's much more catering business for you to follow. Of all the caterers who have come through here, your food is by far the best."

Yes we are blushing, but thank you very much!


Today we catered their first event. It was a high-end drop-off luncheon for the Dean and his special guests. Two minor, but very significant details happened at this event, showcasing how Provence Catering will go to that next level of hospitality to provide a five star dining experience to all of our clients, not matter what type event that we are catering.

Point 1. Today's luncheon called for gourmet drop and go service and it was served on beautiful disposable platters. Ordinarily, we provide clear plastic utensils as part of our drop-off package. However, since this luncheon was for the Dean, our Operations Manager decided to pack our finest serving utensils as well. He later explained that he did not feel the Dean's lunch should be served by a spork. He was absolutely correct and he upgraded our level of service for the event. We left our premium utensils with his staff and we will pick then up next when we cater another luncheon for the Dean. Making everyone look good, is always job one.

Point 2. Today's guest were caught in traffic and delayed by nearly an hour. Rather than leave the buffet unattended, our delivery team wrapped up the food and placed in the refrigerator. Then they gave up their own lunch hour, patiently waiting for the Dean's guests to arrive. Five minutes before their arrival, our staff set up the buffet for the second time. Mission accomplished.

The fresher the food, the better the service, the more you know it's an event catered by Provence.

Wedding Week celebration and our tasty symphony.

Everyone knows that we have an in-house wedding this weekend in Carlisle, PA as our Director of Marketing, Jessa, is exchanging vows with Brian. It always different experience when it's one of your own walking down the aisle. We couldn't be happier about or better prepared for this stylish event.

The wedding week buzz around Provence reached a new level of excitement today with a delicious company luncheon honoring the bride and groom. Guests traveled from far and wide to wish the young couple much happiness as they begin their new married life together. Our talented chef's prepared a spectacular Indian Summer menu for the newlyweds featuring locally-grown produce and sustainable resources. The kitchen staff then surprised Jessa with a Potpourri of kitchen hardware presents to help christen her new kitchen. The kitchen's very thoughtful gesture was an expression of their deep appreciation and affection for their talented colleague.

It's very rare when the entire symphony of an organization is a shining star. Our talented and dedicated ensemble represent a well-synchronized galaxy of super-Nova's. Our harmony and skills create a premium product that is second to none.

Look for photos of the bride and wedding next week.

The "Opportunity of Now" and the Godfather of Soul.

While many local school systems are overlooking the calendar, summer is over and it's time to add some jet fuel into your corporate sales or university agenda. It's time to entertain and entertain well. Great hospitality sets you apart and it's a smart business mantra that we will always advance. You have cut costs and trimmed budgets with great reluctance, but it had to be done.

Now the tune has changed and it's time to be leader in progress in the boardroom, in the showroom and on campus. Visionary professionals realize they now must make the smart choices to win new business, expand existing relationships, reward dedicated employees, celebrate milestone moments and influence the key decision-makers with well-planned events.

Over the years we have had the opportunity to work with many organizations from small businesses to large corporations to world class universities and the theme of success is aways the same. Engage the client, treat people well, reward innovation and capitalize on market changes.

Savvy professionals are rapidly embracing the "Opportunity of Now."

To quote the late, great Godfather of Soul, James Brown, "Get up off of that thang and make yourself feel better!" Now is the ideal time to kick-off an aggressive business development campaign with a groundbreaking event catered by Provence. With your sales and marketing skills, the return on investment will yield both short and long term rewards.

You know it takes a lot of soul to set yourself apart in the business of business or the business of education. The Godfather could always inspire a trend and everyone knows you've got soul. It's time to Get Up and lead!