We had the good fortune of connecting with Noelle Salinas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Noelle, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I love to create! I was always involved in an art as a child. Whether it be actual art (drawing, coloring, crafting), or art like dance, music, song, it was my passion to be creative. Both my parents loved to cook, and I feel this gave me an edge from my inception. From as early as 6 years old, I consistently told my mom, I want to cook. The desire never left me. Her love for cooking caused us to create meals together and have friends over to share in what we made. I was probably one of few children that had a subscription to cooking magazines, but loved them. Would always pick something from each one that I wanted to make. My mother also pushed me to try new foods, and not be picky. Both my parents passed away, my father when I was young, my mom while I was in college, but I know they’re both the reason why I pursued a creative career.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My qualifications is what sets me apart from the competition. When you hire Fresh from the Kitchen, you are hiring a black owned woman ran company that has catered to Will Smith, the Baltimore Ravens, Amber Heard, and Maxim magazine to name a few. You are hiring a credible caterer that puts emphasis on fresh, tasty, quality food and product. You are hiring an individual who cares more about giving you and your guests an experience, then bottom line numbers and fiscal opportunity. You are hiring someone who has heart for the company and cares deeply for you as her client, her employees, and her reputation. My journey was not easy. I had to fight hard to be where I am today. This company was founded during a recession in October 2008 with 1,000.00. A lot of hard work, a lot of persistence, some tears, laughs, and lessons is what has made this company successful. I started with a business partner, and for the last five years I have been sole owner. I have learned you can never loose site of your why. Why did I choose to do this? Why will I continue to do this? And why do I want to do this? Fresh from the Kitchen’s company tagline is “a taste of perfection.” That ideology is what fuels everything the company does. You are only as good as your last event. Therefore, we must bring a higher element every time. To rise to perfection means giving the best that you can all the time. So ask yourself, when do you want to experience “a taste of perfection?”

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
I would love to take my friend’s to Sedona! It is of course stunningly beautiful and so different from anywhere in the world! I would have them enjoy food at Mariposa and 89 Agave, hangout at Oak Creek of course, and perhaps do a Pink Jeep tour (as I have never done one either), or kayaking. In town, (Phoenix), we would need to go for a great steak at Durant’s, perhaps an ice cream at Churn, and walk around Kierland if it were cool enough for some great shopping. 🙂

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My parents, especially my mother for helping hone my skills in the kitchen, and encouraging me to be creative and talented! My fiance for being by my side during Covid-19, the most difficult time for a catering business especially. My son, for always telling me I am the best chef and make delicious food. My fellow vendors in the industry that support my business through referrals to their clients and nominations for awards.

Website: www.freshfromthekitchenllc.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/fftk_catering
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noellesalinas/
Twitter: www.twitter.com/noellecooks
Facebook: www.facebook.com/fftkcatering

Image Credits
Laura Segall Photography Harrison Hurwitz Photography

Nominate someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.