Meet Our Team
Meet the team behind Elizabeth D. Kennedy & Co. Catering. Our work is defined by personalized planning, exceptional culinary artistry, and a dedicated staff who brings warmth, precision, and effortless hospitality to every event. With decades of combined experience, our team approaches every celebration with intention crafting moments that feel seamless, memorable, and uniquely yours. From the kitchen to the event floor, each member plays a vital role in bringing your vision to life with grace, creativity, and uncompromising attention to detail.
Elizabeth D. Kennedy
Founder
You could say Elizabeth Kennedy’s story fits the “starving actor turned caterer” stereotype—but with a glamorous twist. While studying theater in New York City, she found herself drawn into the world of food, working part-time for Newsweek Magazine’s former chef, the late David Thorne. His flair for creating unforgettable events for icons like Elizabeth Taylor, Chanel, and Diana Ross made a lasting impression. Elizabeth even went on to work for Ms. Ross herself—helping with holiday parties, assisting her production company, and caring for her children.
After the serendipity of catering a party for Martha Stewart, Elizabeth made her way to Vero Beach in 1984—and the rest is history. What started as a passion project became EDK & Co., one of the area’s most sought-after catering and event companies, now known for orchestrating everything from intimate dinners to extravagant galas.
“My theatrical background has served me well,” Elizabeth laughs. “These parties and events are my stage!”
From hangars to barges, EDK & Co. has brought unforgettable events to life for celebrities, politicians, and generations of local families alike—each one filled with beauty, flavor, and the joy of celebrating well.
Renee Overton
Operations Manager
Originally from Tennessee, Renee graduated with honors from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. She began working in the restaurant business after college and was front-of-the-house manager for two very high-end restaurants. She moved to Vero Beach in 1990. She is Tennessee Volunteer at heart, but does consider herself a Floridian.
In the Fall of 1990 she got her start at EDK & Co. What started out as a seasonal job serving at parties became a managerial position in 1995. She learned from Elizabeth how to plan and orchestrate events from eight to thousands, as well as the fine art of staffing. What she enjoys the most about this business are the personal relationships with clients that have developed over the years.
“We truly have the best clientele any business can have! I believe this aspect has kept me here for upwards of 30 years. With pleasure.”
Charlie Corper
CHEF
Charles Corper is a trained culinary professional who began his journey at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Denver, where he developed a strong foundation in technique, flavor, and kitchen leadership. He refined his craft at 2 restaurants on the Michelin Guide: The Cottage in Greenwich, Connecticut and OKO in Rye, New York—two fast-paced, high-standard kitchens that strengthened his skills in precision, teamwork, and elevated modern cuisine.
Today, he brings that experience and passion to his role as Executive Chef of Elizabeth D. Kennedy & Company, where he leads with creativity, discipline, and a commitment to delivering exceptional, memorable innovative cuisine for every event!
(L to R) Elizabeth D. Kennedy, Charlie Corper, Alejandro Saurez, Elizabeth Guerrero, David Harmon, Matt Longworth, Renee Overton
OUR STORY
The Spark: Falling in Love with Catering
Working part time for Newsweek magazine’s ex Chef, the late David Thorne who quickly shifted to become a top caterer in NYC doing events for: Elizabeth Taylor, Channel, and Diana Ross. Elizabeth couldn’t have learned from a better mentor.
Elizabeth Works for Diana Ross
Elizabeth worked for Ms. Ross, as both nanny to her children and as party planner for her holiday affairs. While working for her, Elizabeth had the fantastic fortune of assisting Michael Jackson and meeting celebrities such as Cher and Bette Midler.
Hello, Vero Beach
Establishing her business in this beautiful seaside community, Elizabeth D. Kennedy & Co. became the name locals trust for extraordinary events. From intimate dinners to grand celebrations, our team brings artistry, hospitality, and heart to every occasion—often catering as many as fifty gatherings a week during the height of the season.
Assisting Martha Stewart
During a summer in The Hamptons, Elizabeth assisted Martha Stewart with a private event. It was an inspiring experience that left a lasting impression on her approach to entertaining.
Voted Best Caterer in Vero
The community’s admiration for Elizabeth and her team has only grown through the years—earning Elizabeth D. Kennedy & Co. repeated recognition as Vero Beach’s Best Caterer and solidifying their place among the area’s most celebrated culinary professionals.
EDK & Co. Continues to Grow
Whether it’s a western hoe down, Hawaiian luau or lavish black tie event for 8 to thousands, Elizabeth D. Kennedy and her team are able to serve up a visual and culinary feast for the discerning palette and distinguished client…not to mention the memories!
Press & Interviews
