Today we’d like to introduce you to Clarrisa Munford.
Hi Clarrisa, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hello, my name is Clarrisa Munford, proud owner of Clarissa’s Kitchen and Catering Service, LLC, a veteran-owned business located just outside Columbia, South Carolina, in the charming town of Irmo– where my culinary passion comes into fruition….
My journey began in the U.S. Army, where I proudly served for 10 years. It was during this time that my love for cooking truly took root—though the spark was first lit as a child, watching my mother work her magic in the kitchen. Over the years, I discovered that my true calling wasn’t in corporate America, but in creating unforgettable culinary experiences.
Today, I’m thrilled to share that passion with you through my catering services and upcoming book, Battle-Tested, Kitchen-Approved: A Soldier’s Journey to Culinary Excellence. I invite you to join me on this journey—from the chow hall to the banquet hall—as I continue to serve, one delicious dish at a time.
Cooking is my passion, and the kitchen is my playground.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has not been smooth, but it was not terrible. Some of the struggle was funding. Staffing at times. Marketing woes.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I worked as a Medical Technologist for 25 years. Studying food borne illnesses and diseases. After pivoting to the caterijg industry, l was able to use these practices by preventing cross-contamination. I’m food and beverage safety manager certified. My military background sets me apart. I bring my Army values to the business and operate in excellence. I also was awarded City of Columbia Spotlight Business of the Year for 2024. I’m most proud of my success through resilience & perseverance.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Happiness is the quiet joy found in moments of gratitude, connection, and purpose. It isn’t always about having everything we want, but about appreciating what we have and finding peace in the present. True happiness grows when we choose kindness, nurture our passions, and allow ourselves to experience life’s blessings—big and small—with an open heart.
Happiness is also fulfilling my dreams and leaving a legacy for my family.
Pricing:
- Prices start at $25pp non-wedding
- Prices start at $35pp Wedding/Corporate
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.clarrisaskitchen.com
- Instagram: @jclegacyeventcenter
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClarrisasKitchenandCatering
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarrisa-munford-1b645190/
- Yelp: https://biz.yelp.com/home/EwlUv53NVIy3T2U2c9dzqA
