Today’s featured member, Jennifer O’Connor, Founder of Pike to Plate, said the business offers private cooking classes utilizing high-quality ingredients sourced from local vendors at Pike Place Market. The menus are seasonal and client-driven, with careful consideration of each client’s food preferences and learning goals. This unique and memorable cooking experience is perfect for date nights, families, and special occasions.
To what do you attribute your business’ success?
I strive to provide the highest level of customer service, from the moment that a person schedules their cooking experience to the time they leave. Prompt and open communication as well as attention to detail are important to customers.
What’s something you wish you had known before you started, or before your chose your current career path?
When I started my business, I had no idea that the majority of my customers would be locals. As a result, I had to shift my business plan from being a weekday operation to working nights and weekends. That took some getting used to, but I’m really enjoying it.
What’s one piece of advice you have for someone looking to start or grow their business, or join your field?
Do a lot of research when deciding on your website platform and managing your social media. The technology aspect of running a business can result in needless expenses if you’re not careful.
How are you/is your business active in your community?
A huge part of Pike to Plate is the connection to Pike Place Market. I source all of my fresh ingredients there because I am a firm believer in supporting other local businesses. In addition, I have donated complimentary classes to a number of charitable organizations that are raising funds to combat homelessness, assist marginalized members of our community, and provide educational scholarships.
What does your Chamber membership mean to you/your company?
I rely upon the Chamber to be the voice for small businesses like mine. I also appreciate the numerous networking opportunities and resources that the Chamber makes available to its members.
What does an equitable and inclusive regional economy look like to you?
I think that it’s important to ensure that we’re doing as much as possible to assist and promote businesses in locations like the International District and South Seattle. Many of these businesses are essential to the fabric of those communities. However they are being threatened by a lack of public safety, while at the same time, their rents are increasing. Seattle needs those businesses – we don’t want to be a town of chains and big box businesses.
Are there partnerships you are/your company is currently looking for?
As a former educator, I enjoy opportunities that allow me to work with teenagers. I think that culinary education is a gateway to a number of rewarding careers that young people should be made aware of.
Thank you to Pike to Plate for being part of the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce network. Here at the Chamber, we have 2,500 companies across the region and 13 different business sectors, from your favorite neighborhood restaurant to brands known around the world. Our member feature program is based on referrals. If you would like to learn more about how to be featured in our member features series, please contact Cori Lumens.