Choosing a personal chef is a very individual choice. This is a close relationship that will be developed over time and it is important that the chemistry between chef and client be just right.
Some important factors to ask any prospective chef are:
- Is the personal chef licensed municipally and provincially, as required?
- Does the personal chef have appropriate and sufficient insurance?
- Has the personal chef been trained in Food Safety and Handling?
- Do they belong to a personal chef association?
- This is not a requirement, but membership provides client protection with a chef obligation to abide by a code of ethics and dissatisfaction can be reported to a chapter or national office.
- Is the personal chef bonded?
- Does the personal chef have references?
Don't be afraid to ask to see copies of any business documentation as any professional personal chef will be more than willing to provide them.
Make sure to call references if you choose - this will help you determine if the personal chef's style will meet your needs.
If the personal chef belongs to an association, investigate it on the Internet and then call to verify the personal chef's membership and reputation. In Edmonton, you can contact the Edmonton Chapter of the United Personal Chef Association (USPCA) and the Canadian Personal Chef Association (CPCA).
If you have any other concerns or questions about hiring a personal chef, please feel free to contact us and one of our members will be more than happy to get in touch with you.