Meet Shannon

I started my journey far from the the wedding and events business as I was working in finance, following a path that felt stable but never truly mine. Cooking had always been my escape, the place where I felt most grounded and most myself. During a season of deep personal reflection, I began sharing meals with friends, then taking on small catering orders, often after long workdays. What began as a side passion quickly grew into something undeniable.

 

I launched Kitchen Klassifieds Catering with nothing but determination, a few pans, and the belief that soulful food could change lives and create community. Word spread faster than I imagined. The demand grew, and so did my vision. Before long, what started in my home kitchen evolved into Kitchen Klassifieds Café—a real space, built from grit, prayer, and many late nights, where I could serve people the flavors and comfort I grew up with.

 

As the brand expanded, so did my purpose. I wanted to create a place where people could celebrate, gather, and feel seen. That dream became Venue XIV at Harborview—a waterfront event space that now hosts weddings, celebrations, and curated moments that bring people together in unforgettable ways.

 

My journey hasn’t been traditional. I built this as a mom juggling life, business, and responsibility, figuring things out one step at a time. Every transition—from finance to catering, from café owner to venue operator—taught me resilience, faith, and the importance of betting on myself even when the path wasn’t clear.

 

Today, I stand on the other side of uncertainty with a growing hospitality group, a thriving community of supporters, and a story that proves you don’t need the perfect start—you just need the courage to begin.

Gratefully,

Shannon 

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