One of the things I love about my job is meeting so many talented, fun and simply amazing people in the industry. I
have been lucky enough to forge some really great bonds with many of my vendors and one of my favorite is Nicole Marotta from Berghoff Catering. Many of you know the Bergohff name from the famed Chicago Eatery “The Berghoff.” Carlyn Berghoff, the daughter of the owners of The Berghoff, started her extremely successful catering business (then known as Artistic Events by Carlyn Berghoff) in 1986 and bought the restaurant from her parents upon their retirement in 2006. This often causes confusion when I suggest Berghoff Catering to my clients. I’ve had many a client tell me they don’t want “German Food” at their wedding. I am here to tell you that Berghoff Catering does not just do German food!! One of the reasons I love working with Berghoff is because of their extremely talented culinary department. They have some of the most innovative and creative chefs in Chicago and I am constantly amazed by what they “bring to the table.” I have a special relationships with their pastry chef, Chon, who I consider to be one of the best pastry chefs in the area. If you are looking for the perfect sweet bite you simply must try Berghoff!
Now back to my dear friend Nicole … I have worked with Nicole for more than six years now and we have collaborated on tons of beautiful and unique weddings. I had to twist Nicole’s arm a little to do this interview but I am so glad I was able to talk her into it!
What sets Berghoff apart from the competition?
Our size, service and commitment to hospitality- we are a very close knit team that has a family-like atmosphere. Because of our size, no detail goes overlooked and our resources allow us to do small as well as extremely large scale events.
What is your favorite savory and sweet thing on the menu?
Impossible! It’s like asking a Mother to pick her favorite child… Ha ha ha. If I had to choose I’d pick the grapes rolled in goat cheese and sacher tortes. Yum!
What is your favorite venue to work? Why?
Before switching my major, I spent 3 years studying Horticulture and worked in at greenhouse and florist for years so I love the natural beauty of the Garfield Park Conservatory!
If you could travel anywhere in the world where would it be and why?
It would be to visit one of my two favorite places … Eagle River, Wisconsin or Key West, Florida
I love the beauty and serenity of the Northwoods. It’s a great escape from daily life. As for Key West… well, it’s Key West… 
What is your favorite animal?
Monkey … I have quite the monkey collection.
What is your favorite restaurant?
Seven Fish, in Key West.
If you were a color, what color would you be and why?
Blue- and according to http://blogthings.com/whatcolorcrayonareyouquiz/ I am blue as well!
“Your world is colored in calm, understated, deep colors.
You are a loyal person, and the truest friend anyone could hope to find.
On the inside, you tend to be emotional and even a bit moody.
However, you know that people depend on you. So you put on a strong front.”
True, very true.
Who is your favorite movie star?
Tom Hanks, circa The ‘Burbs!
What is your favorite saying?
“Make it happen”
What do you like most about working with Greatest Expectations?
I love how much fun we have working together on the actual day of the event!
We do have a ton of fun working with Nicole! She keeps us in stitches the entire day, which makes everything better and helps the time pass much faster.
Nicole thank you for taking the time to do this interview! We love you, we love Berghoff and we look forward to our next project with you!
