Instagram story viewer> @thechefaquatic> Posts

The Chef Aquatic

@thechefaquatic

2.8K

followers

4476

following

Chef—Private/Yacht/Caterer
CHS based:📍🇮🇹👩🏻‍🍳
Founder of: Our Table Chefs- Empowering Female Chefs One Headshot at a Time
Lifting & Boosting the Morale

POSTS STORIES REELS

A little behind-the-scenes peek at Episode 7 of Heart of the Home. The food, the people, the stories, the laughter, the connections... THIS is why I started this journey.
We’re creating something really special, one home, one table and one story at a time. 💜
And somehow, every time we film, I leave even more excited about what we’re building.
Episode 7, you were a good one. 🎥🍴🏠
#HeartOfTheHome #BehindTheScenes #CharlestonSC #LowcountryLiving #CharlestonFood SouthernStoriesEac by @thechefaquatic

✨ This could not have come at a better time. A few months ago, I was invited to do my very first podcast with French Kissing Life. At first, I hesitated—stepping outside my comfort zone is never easy. But I said yes, set a date, and promised myself I’d follow through.

Fast forward to last month in Nantucket… I almost forgot! I worried it wouldn’t align with my boss’s schedule, but when I shared the news with him and my captain, they immediately said: “You have to do this—we support you.” And that meant everything. 💛

I’m beyond grateful for the support that has carried me through this journey—from my friends and family to this beautiful hospitality community. I never imagined the impact, the relationships, and the opportunities that would come from simply saying yes.

Special thanks to my dear friend Paul Cheney for the nudge, Hannah Staddon of Funky Chef Co. for collaborating, Kate Blohm of Kate Blohm Photography for capturing the moments, Chef Katie Williams & Chef Andrea Pharris of the Chef’s Collective for hosting, and Angela Colyer Dupree of Hospitality Revival & President of Les Dames d’Escoffier for championing another round of Our Table Chefs.

This has been such an empowering experience. Thank you all for believing in me. 💫 I cannot wait to officially launch the site—Our Table Chefs is coming soon!

Take a listen: 🔗 in Bio!

#femalechefs #womenwhocook #womeninthekitchen #privatechefs #privatechefs #yachtchefs #femaleempowerment #workingtogether #buildingcommunitytogether #buildingcommunity #collaborations #letsdothis #ourtablechefs #inspiringwomen #buildingcamraderie by @thechefaquatic

Last year around this time, I had an idea — but not yet a fully formed mission.

A few weeks later, we held the very first Our Table Chefs event. What I thought would simply be a gathering of female chefs quickly became something much deeper. Women stepped outside their comfort zones, shared stories, supported one another, and built connections that have lasted far beyond the event itself.

What this past year gave me was something I never expected: a true community.

That experience shifted something in me. It made me realize that Our Table Chefs is not just an event — it’s a mission that has quietly lived in my heart for over 15 years. And now, for the first time, I feel ready to bring it into its next phase.

Which brings me to something I’m honored to share…

I’ve been nominated again for Favorite Chef by Carla Hall.

Last year, I stepped away from the competition after someone told me it wasn’t legitimate. By the time I realized otherwise, I had already lost momentum. Looking back now, I think everything unfolded the way it was supposed to.

Because this year feels different.

This nomination no longer feels like it’s just about me. It feels connected to the future of Our Table Chefs and the possibility of bringing this movement to other cities.

If I were fortunate enough to win, it would help create more spaces where women in the culinary and hospitality world feel seen, supported, connected, and celebrated.

And truthfully, I’m not much of a self-promoter. If you know me personally, you already know that. But if you’ve supported my food, attended an event, believed in this vision, or quietly rooted for me along the way, I would truly appreciate your support.

Voting begins June 1st, and you can vote free once a day.

And if you choose to donate, please know the Favorite Chef competition, operated by Colossal, raises millions annually in support of the James Beard Foundation.

Thank you for believing in me, in this vision, and in what we’re building together.

🔗 in BIO! Lets GOO! 🙏🏽🤞🏽🤸

#favoritechef #favoritechef2026 #mission #femalechef #grateful by @thechefaquatic

There are moments in life that remind you why traditions matter.

Saturday, October 25th, we celebrated the christening of Beguile, a beautiful 1938 Herreshoff 12½ that was originally commissioned on April 20, 1938, for the remarkable price of just $450. Following an extensive survey and an extraordinary restoration by the talented students at the International Yacht Restoration School (IYRS School of Technology & Trades), she has been given a new life and a fitting new name.

It was a true honor to help coordinate the christening ceremony and witness Captain Nicholas Brown, at 94 years young, perform the blessing. Still as sharp and dapper as ever—yes, his uniform still fits!—he continues to embody the grace, wisdom, and traditions of the sea. His blessing was thoughtfully written with intention, just as everything he continues to do. There is so much one can learn from him, and I count myself incredibly fortunate to have had that privilege over the years.

Captain Nicholas Brown’s Blessing for Beguile:

“Upon this hull, salt-kissed and strong, we lay our hopes as the tide hums its song.
May the wind find your canvas, steady and true, and the stars chart your course through the midnight blue.
Let the waves greet you kindly, with silvered crest, and the harbor embrace you when seeking rest.
May gulls cry in welcome, and dolphins in play, guide you homeward at dusk from each wandering day.
By sun’s golden promise and moon’s gentle gleam, sail forth with courage, and carry our dream.
Your name now spoken, the sea shall know—
and guard you wherever her waters flow.”

A special congratulations to Beguile, who proudly joined the incredible Women’s Herreshoff 12½ Fleet earlier this year here in Newport—a fleet that honors the rich history of these timeless boats while celebrating the remarkable women who sail them.

Many cheers to Beguile. May she enjoy fair winds, following seas, and countless adventures for generations to come.

And may you all be beguiled by her. ⛵️⚓💙

#herreshoff #classicboat #irys #womenwhosail #newportri by @thechefaquatic

Yesterday was a day well spent outdoors. 🍂

This is one of my favorite times of year in New England—the crisp mornings, the vibrant fall colors, and the incredible natural beauty that surrounds you. It’s just one of the many reasons I love spending time here.

We took a drive out to Ninigret Park to visit a few of the incredible Thomas Dambo trolls. So far, I’ve made it to 3 of the 5, and I can honestly say they never get old. There’s something so magical about stumbling upon these larger-than-life works of art tucked into nature.

Afterward, we enjoyed a delicious lunch at Matunuck Oyster Bar—always a Rhode Island favorite. Their oysters and scallops never disappoint. 🤤🦪

The day ended with a celebratory dinner at Bowen’s 22 (which, somehow, I forgot to photograph!).

One thing I love about being here is that my days are always full. There is simply too much to experience if you’re willing to get out and explore. As they say, chance favors those in motion.

I’ve got plenty more adventures from this trip to share… stay tuned! 🍁✨

#rhodeisland #newenglandfall #thomasdambo #thomasdambotrolls #getoutside by @thechefaquatic

A complete 180 from yesterday. Happy Fall y’all!

#sweaterweather #fall #marshview #landschapsfotografie #timelapse by @thechefaquatic

by @thechefaquatic

Friday was a day well spent wandering the beautiful streets of Arezzo, taking in the history, architecture, and the simple moments that make traveling so special.

While we stopped to grab a bite to eat, I noticed a man walking down the street. My sense of humor immediately took over, and I found myself thinking, “If only he would turn around and walk back this way…” I could already picture the moment I wanted to recreate in my head.

Well… somehow I willed him back. 😂 And it turned out to be everything I had hoped for.

Sometimes it’s the completely unexpected, silly moments that become the ones you remember most. I got such a big kick out of it that I had to share it with you. We could all use a little more laughter in our lives.

Italy has already given me so many memories, and this is just one of them. More adventures (and probably a few more laughs) are coming soon… stay tuned. 🇮🇹❤️ by @thechefaquatic

Some experiences are hard to put into words, and this year’s 47th Annual Newport Classic Yacht Regatta is one of them.

For the second year in a row, I had the privilege of serving on the Race Committee for the Herreshoff 12½ Women’s Fleet. Watching this group grow has been incredible. In just one year, the fleet has doubled to 60 members and 16 boat owners. Even more inspiring has been the dedication these women have shown, spending countless evenings practicing, building confidence, and sharpening their sailing skills. The momentum is undeniable.

Newport’s sailing history is something truly special. Seeing these classic yachts under full sail is like stepping back in time. One of my favorite moments was seeing my former boat, Ticonderoga, celebrating her 100th birthday. It brought me back to my time aboard in 2019 and reminded me how fortunate I’ve been to be part of this world.

Another unforgettable highlight was Viola, the beautiful 1908 William Fife III design, whose crew brought so much energy and joy throughout the weekend. Watching them receive the Clingstone Cannon Award, honoring my former boss Joseph T. Dockery Jr., was especially meaningful. Joe dedicated so much of his life to preserving classic yachts, and I know he would have loved every minute of it.

I’m incredibly grateful to be surrounded by people who share the same passion—for the water, these historic boats, and preserving them for future generations. Every regatta reminds me just how fortunate I’ve been to build a career doing what I love.

Until next year, Newport.
#newport #classicsailing #herreshoff #regatta #womenwhosail by @thechefaquatic

Race Committee reporting for duty!

Back to what I love most—being on the water, especially in beautiful Newport, Rhode Island.

As summer begins to fade, so does another incredible sailing season here in New England. I’m excited to be back one year later, gearing up for the Newport Classic Regatta this weekend. Before the racing begins, I had the chance to get out on the water for Wednesday night’s race and find my sea legs again. Turns out, I never lost them.

Just look at these beautiful Shields Fleet 9 boats—25 of them lined up on the starting line, dancing across Narragansett Bay. There’s something about watching these beautiful boats under sail, and there’s no place I’d rather be than out on the water surrounded by this incredible sailing community.

Here’s to fair winds, great racing, and another unforgettable weekend in Newport.

#sailing #racecommittee #sheildsracing #newportri #narragansett by @thechefaquatic

Yesterday marked another birthday, but more importantly, it marked the beginning of a new chapter.

As the years pass, I’ve realized that life isn’t measured by the number of birthdays we celebrate, but by the lives we touch, the kindness we extend, and the legacy we quietly leave behind.

I spent my birthday with someone very special—my former client and now dear friend, who is 94 years young here in Newport, Rhode Island. Over the years, he’s taught me lessons that no cookbook, classroom, or career ever could.

He’s shown me that age isn’t simply a number—it’s a mindset. It’s about continuing to move forward, staying curious, and never giving up. It’s about having the courage to try something new, knowing it’s okay to make mistakes because that’s where the best lessons are found. It’s about saying yes to travel, exploring places you’ve never been, embracing opportunities when they appear, and remaining open to change.

Most importantly, he’s reminded me to love deeply. We could all use a little more of that these days.

I’ve also learned that success isn’t measured only by accomplishments or recognition. It’s about showing up with integrity, lifting others as we climb, creating space where people feel they belong, and leaving every place—and every person—a little better than we found them.

When my story is told, I don’t want to be remembered only for the meals I created or the places I traveled. I hope I’m remembered for making people feel seen, for creating a seat at the table for those who needed one, for encouraging others to chase their dreams, and for leading with kindness and compassion.

Here’s to another year of growing, learning, giving, and becoming. May this next chapter be filled with purpose, courage, meaningful connections, and moments that truly matter.

Happy Birthday to me.

The best chapters are still waiting to be written. ❤️ by @thechefaquatic