Culture, Passion and Creativity: Saint Mary’s Catering Partners

Saint Mary’s College takes pride in offering students and visitors top-tier amenities at every event. Along with the gorgeous views and a historically rich setting, Saint Mary’s offers a variety of catering options that often go overlooked. In recent months, the College established relationships with new catering companies. Each of these companies are locally owned and operated.

The Landing is Saint Mary’s newest catering partner and is providing an array of services and assortments of food. Founded in 1989,  it is best known for weddings, corporate events and private parties. Owner and head chef Travis Hamel takes passion in his work and ensures that each of his clients are able to incorporate their own creativity into their culinary requests. The Landing is willing to collaborate with the host of the event and gain perspective of their own vision for the menu as well as presentation. Saint Mary’s has also introduced Soulful Kitchen, a local catering company owned by Laquisha Jackson. Soulful Kitchen has a primarily southern comfort cuisine style with a modern twist. Jackson began cooking when she was just seven years old, and has flourished ever since. Jackson is also a graduate of the SPARK business accelerator program at Saint Mary’s. This program offers guidance and motivation to those looking to advance and excel in their futures as business leaders. Her experience with SPARK has helped her shape Soulful Kitchen and has had a lasting impact on her career. 

“My perspectives have broadened by being a SPARK graduate. I feel confident as a self-employed business owner due to the vision of the SPARK program,” Jackson said. When asked what advice she gives students looking to start their own small business, Jackson said, “Self-reflect on your strengths, passions, and dream big.” Her business now donates time and money to Hope for the Hungry, a Michiana charity founded by Jackson herself, helping those in need.

Cafe Navarre has become a popular dinner spot for many members of the South Bend community. Their menu offers a wide array of sophisticated yet comforting options and they have a focused catering service. Saint Mary’s final new addition to their catering catalog is Navarre Hospitality Group. Kurt Janowsky, founder of Navarre, owns a multitude of restaurants in the area which encompass his passion for food and presentation. Presentation is a key element in Navarre’s efforts to please customers. 

Supporting local businesses has become important for Saint Mary’s to ensure our community’s growth and prosperity. With three new catering groups added to our team, Saint Mary’s will continue to provide outstanding service at every upcoming event.

Jackie Cunningham '22 is a Business Marketing major from Tinley Park, IL