Monica attended Brown University in Providence, RI where she mastered the art of cooking in a toaster oven and a microwave. Her junior year, she attended the University of Bologna in Italy. It was here that she learned that a tomato isn’t orange but a deep crimson, and that truly fresh food tastes amazing without much tampering. She went grocery shopping on a daily basis and bought only the freshest products from each vendor.  Upon returning to Brown, she knew that she wanted food to play a central role in her career.  She also had an entrepreneurial spirit and focused her studies in economics, business and management.

Upon graduating with a B.A. in Organizational Behavioral Management, Monica went to work at Paula LeDuc Fine Catering in Emeryville, CA. where she was hired as an Event Production Manager. Here Monica became more comfortable with culinary terms, pairing wines with food and the art and importance of customer service.

After two years with Paula LeDuc Fine Catering, Monica decided it was time to tap into her business training and start her own company. Monica started Stelle Events where she planned and coordinated events for Americans both in Northern California and in Italy. The company grew to do twelve high-end events a year. She managed staff both in California and abroad as well as a payroll roster of 30 people. While the company was in its beginning stages, Monica was a barista, food runner and server at Oliveto Restaurant and Café in Oakland, CA where she learned much more about Italian food, sustainability and wine pairing. She also met her future husband and co-owner of The Local Butcher Shop, Aaron.

After five years of running Stelle Events, Monica decided it was time to hone her sales skills. So, back to Paula LeDuc Fine Catering she went, this time as an Account Executive. She was an Account Executive for two and a half years before opening The Local Butcher Shop.

Random Facts About Monica:

Favorite Ice Cream: It depends! In the summer it’s strawberry, in the winter – coffee, in the spring it’s vanilla, and in the fall…probably Heath Bar.

Favorite Color: Blue

Favorite Cuisine: Italian, followed closely by Chinese.

Dogs or Cats?  Dogs all the way! I’m totally allergic to cats

Astrological Sign: Aquarius