We’re proud of our wonderful team at Kalm Kitchen, and without a doubt it’s what brings a truly personal touch to all that we do. Most of our faces have been with us for years, so we thought we’d introduce you! First up, it’s Lara Kellaway – Senior Event Manager (and secret Percy Pig fan!)

Q: Lara, when did you join Kalm Kitchen and what has been your journey since you started?

A: I joined Kalm Kitchen in March 2014 on placement year from Bournemouth University. I stayed for about 8 months before returning back to Uni for my final year. I was offered a full time job on completion and I’ve not left since!

Q: Tell us a little about your role at Kalm Kitchen, and what’s a typical day for you?

A: I’m the Senior Events Manager at Kalm Kitchen and lucky enough to look after an incredible team. There is no typical day in the events world, it’s a diverse job and you have to juggle many tasks, so every day is different – varied, challenging, and fun!

Q: What are the best and worst things about your role?

A: The best is seeing an event through from start to finish, going on a journey with our clients and exceeding their expectations on the day. There really is no worst part for me as I see everything as all part of the job.

Q: What’s the best ever event you’ve ever had the pleasure to work on? What made it so special?

A: I really couldn’t pick a favourite as they’re all special in their own way. I must admit though to a particular love for marquee weddings, you have to think about every aspect and it’s a huge achievement when it all goes well. I also suppose each current event I’m working on become a favourite as you really throw your heart and soul into it for the duration of the planning and execution.

Q: What are the particular skills you think you have that make you good at your job?

A: Well, I’m confident, very approachable, very motivational and – most importantly maybe – I have endless energy!

Q: If you could choose a dream party to plan, what would it be?

A: I suppose I’d have to say it would be my own wedding (one day – it hasn’t happened yet!) Like most girls it’s something I dream about, and with the job I do it would be a chance to pour all my ideas and creativity into this one amazing day.

Q: What are your best tips for hosting the most successful party?

A: Don’t overcomplicate things. Sometimes simple is best.

Q: What’s your favourite food?

A: Anyone who knows me will vouch for the fact that I’m a bit of a fussy eater, although I’m really lucky that I get to taste some incredible dishes here at Kalm Kitchen HQ. In general, give me anything sugary and I’m in heaven. White chocolate, cappuccinos and Percy Pigs are my guilty pleasures. Oh, and I do LOVE Bearnaise sauce.

Q: What do you do in your downtime?

A: I have a house back in Dorset, which is where I spend my days off. My family runs a dairy farm there too so I get involved with that and there is never a dull moment.

Q: Are you going on holiday this year and where are you off to?

A: Yes, I am going on a very special holiday this year – it’s my dear friend and work colleague Cat’s hen party. I can’t disclose where we’re going though. Top secret!

Q: What’s the most useless talent you have?

A: My ability to come out with random words. Coolio, fanjabioli, all kinds of nonsense. Oh, and I describe pretty much everything as ‘delicious’, even when it doesn’t make sense!

Q: What would your autobiography be called?

A: ‘A Life of a Dorset Girl’.

Q: If you had to make a rule for one day and everyone had to follow it, what would it be?

A: Be positive, keep smiling!

Q: What’s your favourite book?

A: Peter Rabbit

Q: Favourite film?

A: Matilda

Q: And finally, favourite song?

A: I love anything upbeat – basically something I can tune into on the radio and sing along!

Photography: Eddie Judd {eddiejuddphotography.com}