Business Details
Your Trusted Wedding Catering Partner in Santa Barbara
Savoir Faire has dedicated three decades to redefining culinary excellence in event catering. Our philosophy centers on sustainable food production, sourcing high-quality, locally-grown organic ingredients, and fostering relationships with regional farmers. With expertise in crafting elegant menusfrom farm-to-table fare to specialized dietary optionswe combine meticulous attention to detail with professional service. Our team, led by founder Karen Smith-Warner, brings global culinary training and a passion for simplicity to every event.Whether orchestrating destination weddings or intimate gatherings, we prioritize client vision and seamless execution. Our commitment to quality extends to handcrafted dishes, artistic presentation, and a staff trained to anticipate every need. Operating across Santa Barbara and the Santa Ynez Valley, we blend local terroir with international techniques to create unforgettable experiences.
Services
Wedding Catering
Event Catering
Organic Catering
Gluten-Free Options
Vegan Cuisine
Cocktail Catering
Formal Plated Dinners
Buffet Service
Seasonal Menus
Private Chef Services
Highlights and features
- We offer 30 years of specialized wedding and event catering expertise.
- Our menus feature locally-sourced organic ingredients and sustainable practices.
- Professional staff trained in global culinary techniques ensures flawless execution.
- We specialize in destination weddings across Santa Barbara and Santa Ynez Valley.
- Customized menus accommodate dietary needs including gluten-free and vegan options.
What people say
Perfect wedding execution
Amazing food quality
Numerous compliments
Stress-free planning
Creative menu options
Services
Wedding Catering
Savoir Faire specializes in crafting bespoke wedding menus that reflect each couple's unique vision. Our team coordinates with venues across Santa Barbara and the Santa Ynez Valley to deliver fresh, locally-sourced cuisine. From intimate ceremonies to grand receptions, we ensure every detailfrom appetizers to dessertexceeds expectations while maintaining seamless service.
Event Catering
We provide comprehensive catering solutions for corporate functions, fundraisers, and private parties. Our menus adapt to any occasion, combining seasonal ingredients with innovative presentation. With experience managing events of all sizes, our staff ensures professional execution while maintaining the personal touch that distinguishes our service in Santa Barbara's competitive catering market.
Organic Catering
Our commitment to sustainability drives our partnerships with local farmers and organic producers. Every dish highlights seasonal ingredients prepared using techniques that preserve natural flavors. This approach not only supports environmental responsibility but also guarantees superior taste and quality in every meal we create for discerning clients.
Gluten-Free Options
We offer expertly crafted gluten-free alternatives that maintain both flavor and presentation. Our chefs accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising quality, ensuring all guests enjoy equally delicious meals. This attention to inclusivity extends to vegan, vegetarian, and plant-based cuisine options across all events.
Cocktail Catering
Our cocktail catering features creative small bites that blend global influences with local ingredients. From passed hors d'oeuvres to interactive food stations, we design menus that engage guests while complementing event themes. Each offering balances visual appeal with exceptional taste to elevate any social gathering.
People
Karen Smith-Warner
Founder & Owner
Self-taught chef Karen Smith-Warner founded Savoir Faire after studying culinary arts in Italy, Greece, and Mexico. Her global expertise and attention to detail have shaped the company's elegant yet simple approach to event catering over three decades.
Melissa Martin Scott
Sous Chef
Sous Chef Melissa Martin Scott joined Savoir Faire during culinary school and has grown into a key creative force. Her European culinary experiences align with Karen's philosophy, particularly in breads, pastries, and fresh flavor profiles that define the company's signature style.
Susie Criley
Operations Manager
With nearly two decades of Santa Barbara catering experience, Susie Criley oversees staff coordination and bar services. Her versatility ensures smooth event execution, allowing chefs to focus on culinary excellence while she manages logistical details.
Questions
What types of events do you cater?
We specialize in weddings, corporate events, private parties, and fundraising functions across Santa Barbara and the Santa Ynez Valley.
Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, we offer gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, and plant-based options tailored to guest requirements without compromising flavor or presentation.
Can you cater destination weddings?
We regularly handle destination weddings in Santa Barbara County and surrounding regions, bringing our expertise to venues throughout the area.
How do you customize menus?
We collaborate closely with clients to create personalized menus using seasonal ingredients, incorporating preferred themes and dietary needs into every event.
What service styles do you offer?
We provide buffet, family-style, formal plated dinners, and interactive food stations to suit various event formats and guest preferences.
What makes your catering unique?
Our commitment to organic ingredients, sustainable practices, and three decades of specialized event experience distinguish our service in the region.
