Kayla Gillin’s journey into the world of food wasn’t marked by formal culinary training or the pursuit of Michelin stars. Instead, it was driven by something deeper—a passion for cooking that became a constant through life’s highs and lows. For Kayla, the kitchen is a place of peace, creativity, and joy, where the everyday becomes extraordinary. This past spring, she took a leap of faith and turned her lifelong love for cooking into a business, now known by the moniker @Kayla_Curates. What started as a side hustle has quickly blossomed into a sought-after word-of-mouth catering service that’s as unique as it is delicious.
Though Kayla runs her business through referrals and Instagram DMs, her reputation has grown rapidly. “I grew up spending summers on the Jersey Shore, worked in restaurants, and ran private parties. I realized home for me is in the kitchen,” she shares. For Kayla, cooking is more than a skill; it’s an act of love and connection.
Career Highlights and Milestones
Despite only launching her business a few months ago, Kayla has already experienced some incredible milestones. One of her proudest moments came in June when she sent out her first five-figure invoice for a business-to-business dinner with Amazon, hosting an intimate 25-person gathering. Since then, she’s also had the opportunity to cater a 75-person wedding in New York City’s vibrant West Village.
Reflecting on her journey, Kayla says, “The art of running a word-of-mouth business continues to bring me joy and allows me to spread an infectious amount of happiness. I have never felt so fulfilled!” Each event is a chance for her to connect with clients and their guests, and she finds immense satisfaction in creating memorable experiences through her food.
Inspirations: Honoring the Legacy of Her Late Brother
When asked about her greatest inspiration, Kayla’s answer is immediate and heartfelt: her late brother Harry. His battle with a rare and aggressive form of cancer was marked by a resilience and gratitude that left a lasting impact on her. “Harry led each day with a level of gratitude that people don’t often experience, especially after receiving a stage 4 diagnosis. He reminds me daily to live without fear, to be grateful for each day, and to spread love into the world.” Harry’s legacy lives on in Kayla’s approach to life and work, inspiring her to bring joy and kindness into everything she does.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
For those who dream of creating something of their own, Kayla’s advice is simple but profound: “Just start. Do it as soon as possible. You’ll never feel more alive.” She understands the hesitation and self-doubt that can come with entrepreneurship, but she believes that diving in headfirst is the best way to learn and grow. Her own journey is a testament to the power of taking that first step, even if you’re not quite sure where the path will lead.
Culinary Favorites: Celebrating Comfort and Seasonality
When it comes to her favorite dishes, Kayla gravitates toward comfort food, with eggplant parm being a family favorite that always brings a smile to her face. She loves cooking with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, creating dishes that honor the flavors of each season. “I love to celebrate the seasons with food and support small business vendors,” she explains. For Kayla, each dish is a canvas where she can “curate” a little bit of magic, blending fresh ingredients and flavors in ways that feel both comforting and innovative.
Where to Find Kayla Gillin
If you’re lucky enough to receive a referral or discover her through word of mouth, you’ll find Kayla sharing her culinary creations on her Instagram account, @Kayla_Curates. Whether she’s catering an intimate dinner or a large celebration, Kayla pours her heart into every dish, ensuring each bite is filled with love and intention. Through her cooking, she’s creating more than just meals—she’s curating experiences that linger long after the last plate is cleared.
For Kayla Gillin, food is more than nourishment; it’s a way of connecting, healing, and celebrating life’s most precious moments. Her journey is just beginning, and we can’t wait to see what culinary magic she creates next.
