From roast beef Yorkshire puddings and mini cheeseburgers to passion fruit and Prosecco jellies, Nerina Howell of Event and Catering Solutions Lanzarote shares the story behind a surprise celebration for 25 guests, and why private catering can make entertaining at home or in a holiday villa that little bit easier.
I’m Nerina Howell, chef and founder of Event and Catering Solutions Lanzarote, and one of the things I love most about my work is helping people bring friends and family together over good food. Recently, I had the pleasure of helping Mike Stewart organise a surprise celebration for his husband, Shaun, with 25 guests gathering for an afternoon of good company, laughter and plenty of delicious little bites.
Some of you may recognise Mike as one of the presenters on Monster Radio, Lanzarote’s local radio station, where he hosts his regular Friday show from 5pm to 7pm. This time, however, he was stepping away from the microphone to celebrate someone special.
The occasion was particularly meaningful, combining Shaun’s birthday with a celebration of life. Mike had previously used my catering services, so it was lovely to be asked to help bring everyone together again. Afterwards, he described the catering as “absolutely faultless” and said the food had “just made the party”.
The idea was to keep things relaxed and informal, with food that guests could enjoy while chatting and mingling rather than sitting down to a formal dinner.
Small bites, big flavours
The menu brought together familiar favourites with a little creative flair. There were tender roast beef tucked into fluffy Yorkshire puddings with horseradish, mini cheeseburgers, smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwiches, and tuna crunch sandwiches for a combination of creamy and crisp textures.
Chicken Caesar bites and a selection of Mediterranean-inspired canapés added variety, while passion fruit and Prosecco jellies brought a playful finishing touch.
I’ve always enjoyed taking familiar dishes and presenting them in ways that suit the occasion. Smaller portions give guests the chance to try different flavours, return to their favourites and enjoy the food without interrupting the flow of the party.
Mike was particularly pleased with the selection of tapas and finger food, describing it as “out of this world”. He also said the feedback from guests had been terrific, which is always encouraging to hear.
Of course, the food is only one part of the experience. Timing, presentation and attentive service all help an event run smoothly, which is where my husband, Matt, sometimes joins me.
An electrician by trade, Matt also has a background in hospitality, having previously managed front-of-house operations at the Royal Fowey Yacht Club in Cornwall. While I concentrate on preparing and presenting the food, he helps look after guests and keeps everything moving behind the scenes. Between the chef and the man who knows his way around a serving tray, we make a useful team!
Enjoying the party you planned
One of the main advantages of hiring a private chef is having the time to enjoy the occasion yourself. Rather than juggling preparation, cooking and serving, hosts can concentrate on their guests and the reason for bringing everyone together.
For Mike, that meant being able to focus on Shaun and their friends while we took care of the catering and service.
Private catering in Lanzarote can suit all sorts of occasions, from birthdays and anniversaries to family gatherings, weddings and informal get-togethers in a private home or holiday villa. Some clients prefer a traditional dinner, while others opt for barbecues, sharing platters or canapés and drinks.
A Little Inspiration for the Festive Season
With Christmas and New Year approaching, it’s also worth remembering that entertaining doesn’t have to mean spending days shopping, preparing and cooking.
Whether it’s a festive drinks party, a family gathering or a celebration with friends, bringing a private chef into your home can turn an ordinary evening into something rather special.
With more than 25 years of professional cooking experience, including work in luxury estates in the UK and aboard sailing boats in the Mediterranean, I enjoy working with clients to develop menus around their tastes, guests and budget. At Event and Catering Solutions Lanzarote, that can mean bringing together Mediterranean and Canarian flavours, using locally sourced ingredients where possible and accommodating dietary requirements.
For me, good catering is about making people feel welcome and giving hosts the freedom to enjoy the gathering they’ve organised.
Whether it’s an intimate dinner or a celebration for up to 50 guests, the aim is to make the food, service and practical details work together, leaving everyone with more time to enjoy the occasion.
Follow The Chef!
“Over on Facebook I share the stories that don’t always make it into print. The little moments from villa kitchens, recipes, chef’s tips and the occasional kitchen disaster!”
Follow along with Nerina’s adventures: Event & Catering Solutions Lanzarote
Looking Ahead To 2027…
My private-chef diary is already filling earlier than ever but there’s something else cooking too. Next year I’ll be launching Chef to Private Chef, drawing on my years in professional kitchens, events and private households to help experienced chefs make the move into private-chef work.
Contact Nerina
Email: nerinahowell@gmail.com
Phone: 0034 711 065 993
Website: www.eventandcateringsolutionslanzarote.com
I cook so you don’t have to.
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