Business Details
42 Years
experience
Custom Wedding Catering & Event Coordination
Founded in 1984, A Thyme to Cook has spent four decades cultivating a reputation as a leader in event catering and coordination. Under the leadership of Michael Ferreira, we continue to embody the original vision of our founder Linda Sample, combining culinary artistry with personalized service to create unforgettable experiences. Our team prioritizes relationships over convenience, collaborating closely with clients to translate their unique preferences into flawlessly executed events. We maintain rigorous standards through onsite kitchen operations, fresh regional ingredients, and daily menu innovation while actively supporting local nonprofits like the St.Vincent DePaul Food Bank. As a 3-star Certified Green Catering provider, we demonstrate environmental responsibility without compromising on quality or creativity. Our dedicated professionals bring joy and expertise to every project, from intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations, ensuring each event reflects the client's vision with precision and artistry.
Services
Wedding Catering
Event Coordination
Custom Menu Design
Onsite Cooking
Bar Services
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- 40 years of specialized wedding event expertise
- Onsite kitchen operations with fresh regional ingredients
- Personalized coordination from initial planning to execution
- Active community involvement with local nonprofits
- 3-star Certified Green Catering sustainability commitment
Associations and certifications
- 3-star Certified Green Catering
What people say
Best food ever
Flawless execution
Talented team
Stress-free planning
Attention to detail
Services
Wedding Catering
Our wedding catering service delivers fresh, locally sourced meals prepared onsite by experienced chefs. We specialize in custom menus that reflect couples' unique tastes and cultural backgrounds. From quintessential New England fare to international fusion dishes, our culinary team creates visually stunning presentations that impress guests while maintaining exceptional flavor profiles.
Event Coordination
Our professional event coordinators guide couples through every planning stage, from initial concept to final execution. They develop cohesive timelines, manage vendor relationships, and ensure seamless day-of operations. With expertise in venue selection and layout design, our coordinators transform client visions into reality while handling logistics with precision.
Custom Menu Design
We craft personalized menus tailored to each client's preferences and event theme. Our culinary team works directly with couples to develop balanced seasonal offerings that incorporate family recipes, cultural traditions, and innovative flavor combinations. Every menu emphasizes fresh ingredients and artistic presentation to create memorable dining experiences.
Onsite Cooking
Our dedicated kitchen teams prepare meals fresh at event locations using portable cooking equipment. This approach ensures optimal food quality and temperature control while adding visual entertainment for guests. We bring complete kitchen setups to venues, maintaining restaurant-grade standards in any outdoor or non-commercial space.
Bar Services
We offer comprehensive bar packages featuring signature cocktails, wine pairings, and specialty drinks tailored to event themes. Our experienced bartenders create custom beverage menus that complement meal courses while providing premium pours and champagne towers. The service includes glassware, mixology expertise, and responsible alcohol service.
People
Michael Ferreira
Owner
Leading A Thyme to Cook since its founding in 1984, Michael Ferreira maintains Linda Sample's original vision while guiding the company's modern evolution. He oversees operations and strategic direction, ensuring the team maintains exceptional service standards.
Linda Sample
Queen & Mentor at Large
As founder of A Thyme to Cook, Linda Sample established the company's culinary philosophy and community values. Though no longer in daily operations, she continues to inspire the team's creative approach and commitment to excellence.
Alexis DeFreitas
Director of Client Experience & Event Operation
Alexis DeFreitas leads client relations and event execution, ensuring seamless coordination between culinary and planning teams. With extensive industry experience, she maintains the company's high standards for personalized service and event quality.
Questions
What areas do you serve for weddings?
We serve Connecticut and the broader New England region, working with over 40 venues across coastal locations, historic estates, and rural properties.
Can you accommodate special dietary needs?
Yes, our culinary team creates customized menus for all dietary requirements while maintaining the same high standards for flavor and presentation.
Do you provide both catering and coordination services?
We offer full-service packages combining custom catering with dedicated event coordination, or can provide either service separately based on client needs.
How do you ensure food quality at outdoor venues?
Our professional kitchen teams prepare meals onsite using commercial-grade equipment, ensuring restaurant-quality food regardless of venue type or location.
Are sustainable practices part of your service?
As a 3-star Certified Green Catering provider, we implement eco-friendly practices including local sourcing, waste reduction, and energy-efficient operations.
