Meet Our Staff

Gary Draper, Executive Chef & Co-Owner

    Gary has been catering in Memphis since 1989, providing delicious and interesting customized menus for weddings, corporate and private affairs, and charity functions, to name a few.  Self-taught, Gary prides himself on his innovative and carefully-prepared entrees, hors d’oeuvres and sides, incorporating only the finest ingredients and flavor combinations.  Determined that his food be “recognizable”, Gary gives his own twist to favorite versions of comfort foods as well as to providing exceptional flair to classic fare for any occasion. 
 Originally from upstate New York, Gary’s experience particularly with beef and seafood leaves no room for comparison.  In spite of his yankee upbringing, he has mastered southern barbecue and ribs that would leave one surprised at his roots.  His charm and willingness to make sure each event is “special” brings customers back time and time again, making Draper’s “Everybody’s Favorite Caterer.” 
 
 

Catherine M. Draper, Pastry Chef & Co-Owner

Cathy is co-owner, along with Gary and oversees menu development and bakery operations at Draper’s.  Cathy works with brides and grooms in designing custom wedding and grooms’ cakes and specialty desserts, as well as other custom menu items for various private and corporate affairs.  She prides herself on the freshness and quality of the foods  she produces and the wide variety of flavor combinations she offers her customers.  Her specialty is her ability to create unique designs and methods of presentation which accurately reflects the “personalities” of her clients and their desires for their special events.  Creative by nature, Cathy welcomes the challenge to make things happen as customers present their vision for their special day, pleasantly surprising clients and guests alike with the results. 

Ryan Draper, Operations Manager, Special Event Consultant

Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in business administration, Ryan graduated from University of Memphis in December 2008 with a degree in International Business.  Having grown up “in the business,” Ryan has had first-hand experience in not only watching, but helping to grow a relatively modest catering operation into a full-service, bustling business with a more than city-wide reputation for quality and service.   Ryan’s expertise in management and organization commands respect not only from staff and vendors, but anyone that has had the opportunity to work with him on events.  His skill in taking an idea from conception to completion, with all the details handled carefully in between, ranks him as an authority in his field.  Customers in all areas enjoy working with him to see their dreams fulfilled and expectations far surpassed.   

Dianne Trammell, Wedding & Event Coordinator

 




     Anyone who knows Dianne loves Dianne.  From first contact with a bride or corporate  customer to the day of the event, she makes sure events run smoothly, vendors are coordinated, and even family and friends looked after, providing an amazing experience for all.  With over 15 years’ experience in the wedding industry, many of which included  overseeing popular Memphis venues, Dianne has seen it all and can make a special occasion even more special for those involved.  Through her company, Bride Savers, Dianne offers both simple and more complete packages for weddings, receptions and corporate and private affairs, offering the degree of guidance necessary to meet the customers’ needs.  With extensive city-wide contacts and relationships with professionals in the event industry, Dianne is always the best person for the job when planning a special affair.

Jonathan Draper, Wedding & Special Event Consultant

Jonathan is Sales Manager at Draper’s and enjoys working with customers as they plan the details of their events.  He is a specialist in purchasing, staffing, and bar services for events and helps customers use their resources wisely to ensure successful outcomes.   Having grown up “in the business,” his experience far exceeds his age.  Incredibly resourceful and creative, Jon can provide expertise in event set up and design, logistics, and can coordinate rentals and products with other vendors to provide a wide range of services for our customers—making Draper’s a “one-stop shop” for our clients.  Jon received his education at University of Memphis studying Biology and plans to continue in health sciences.  

Matthew Draper, Wedding & Special Event Consultant

  Matthew is a perfectionist by nature, as one might see by attending one of his events.  His expertise in event production and coordination has left Draper’s with many a happy customer!    Specializing in off-site event management, Matt’s relationships with venue representatives and vendors ensure timely and accurate set ups, appropriate staffing arrangements, and all the extras needed to ensure successful events.  Matt is experienced in electronic media and can advise as needs arise in that area.  He is responsible for  the IT needs for our company as well as performs other managerial duties such as payroll and scheduling.