Spring is here, and with the fresh season comes the promise of fresh flavors. Spring also heralds celebrated holidays like Passover, Easter, and Mother’s Day. We sat down with Draeger’s concierge Catering Consultant Marcus Coy to ask him about his catering recommendations for those hosting spring events.
Q: Marcus, tell us about your background with Draeger’s Markets.
A: Wow, I’ve been with Draeger’s for 34 years this coming October. I brought six years of cake decorating experience with me, and was the second person hired when Draeger’s created their bakery kitchens. I helped design many of the current pastries and cakes-the chocolate panels that decorate the outside of Draeger’s Double Chocolate Mousse were my decorating idea!
Q: You sound extremely experienced with the company. What do you think sets Draeger’s apart from other places you can order food?
A: I consider myself a foodie. Everything we make is made with no additives or preservatives, and it’s all made from scratch. We even smoke our own hams- they’re outstanding, the best I’ve had on the Peninsula.
Q: Now that you are Draeger’s concierge Catering Consultant, can you describe how you assist people?
A: I am here to help people with considerations for different meal components, portions sizes, dietary restrictions, and finding options for picky people.
Q: It seems many people are opting to order online now, what is the difference between ordering on Draeger’s website and calling you directly?
A: The website is a fantastic tool. Sometimes you don’t know what will appeal to you until you see a picture. Most of the time, customers already have a good idea of what they want to present to their guests, and by visiting the website they can see what fits their vision. But the difference between ordering online and ordering with me is the personal service. When customers call and speak with me, they don’t just have to place an order, they can create a proposal.
Q: What’s the difference between a quote and a proposal?
A: A proposal can be thought of as a moving target. It is a quote that is easily changed if you find you have more people coming (or if someone cancels), I can make serving suggestions, and I have direct knowledge of ingredients and allergens, which is helpful when picking food for a group.
Q: How do your potential clients reach you?
A: I am available to answer product questions, create proposals, or place orders Tuesday through Saturday, 9am -6pm via email (mcoy@draegers.com) and phone (650-244-6521).
By Tori Draeger Paff, Draeger’s Market