Discover the passion and expertise behind every detail.
Our talented chefs, creative consultants, and professional planning staff always aim to exceed your expectations. We promise to give you plenty of reasons to feel confident and excited about your upcoming event!




Tracy is inspired and motivated by the challenges of the kitchen and working with a dedicated team. He enjoys the constant change and the opportunity to create successful events.
Fun Fact: Tracy is an ice fishing enthusiast!
Christy is inspired by the joy she helps create for clients on their most memorable days, whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, or family gathering. She thrives on the variety of the industry, embracing the challenges and creative opportunities that come with every unique event. Building lasting relationships and mentoring her team are among the highlights of her work.
Christy stays active in the event industry through her involvement with the Downtown Council, ILEA (International Live Events Association), and TCWEP (Twin Cities Wedding & Event Professionals). She also participates in Meet Minneapolis and other networking events to stay connected and up to date on industry trends.
Fun Fact: In her early twenties, Christy had the unique experience of being Ansel Elgort's nanny in New York City. During this time, she also worked in the fashion industry, cultivating an eye for detail and creativity that continues to influence her work in event planning today.
Rachel's dedication extends beyond her role at Mintahoe, as she currently serves as the Director of Marketing for the National Association for Catering & Events (NACE). She has also been involved with the Minnesota Restaurant Association's Board of Directors. Always eager to stay connected and grow, Rachel finds joy in learning and contributing to the industry that fuels her passion for creating unforgettable experiences.
What drives Derrick in his role is the people he works with and the everyday challenges of providing exceptional food to top executives, families, and athletes. He thrives on the unpredictable nature of the job, embracing each day as an opportunity to create something unique and extraordinary. The excitement of never knowing exactly what the day will bring keeps him motivated and energized.
Derrick is proud to be a part of Atikis, which has earned recognition as the number one catering service for NetJets, one of the largest flight companies in the U.S. He is also a member of the Minnesota Business Aviation Association (MBAA), a testament to his dedication to the industry.
Outside of work, Derrick enjoys bass fishing, ice fishing, and gardening. He especially loves watching his kids play sports, making family time a top priority.
She loves the ever-changing nature of the catering world—no two days are the same! Jenny is always up for a challenge and is known for her quick thinking and creative problem-solving, inspiring the phrase "WWJD: What Would Jenny Do?" among her team.
Jenny is TIPS trained and ServeSafe Certified. Outside of work, she keeps busy with her large family of six children, raises backyard chickens (earning her the title of “office egg dealer”), and isn’t afraid to experiment with unique culinary creations—she even made hot sauce caviar for a gala! She credits Mintahoe with expanding her palate, especially when it comes to mushrooms.
With years of experience and plenty of behind-the-scenes stories (including a champagne cork mishap that nearly took out her best friend’s eye!), Jenny’s love for the industry shines through in everything she does.
While in college, Steve's parents purchased a small catering company, and he spent the next two summers learning the ropes—washing dishes, buttering buns, cutting fruit, and serving up delicious ribs and chicken. Upon graduation in 1981, during the recession, Steve was invited to run the family business. He quickly realized that managing a small business was the perfect opportunity to apply his business education. Some of his notable achievements included orchestrating a 1,000-person pig roast for 3M, which eventually grew into multiple division picnics, and executing a 5,600-person picnic with a grill-on-site menu, served in just 100 minutes.
After 15 years of running his own business, Steve joined the McMertys, bringing his large-group catering expertise to the team. He also introduced technology and modern systems, transitioning the company from using carbon paper to more efficient digital processes.
What inspires Steve most in his role is the ability to please people and say no as little as possible. He loves meeting new people and making them look good, always striving to exceed expectations and create memorable experiences.
When he’s not busy with catering and events, Steve is an avid tennis player and serves as the president of a local 250-member ski club. The club organizes exciting ski trips in the Western U.S. and internationally, ensuring plenty of adventure year-round.
What inspires him most in his role is the ability to support clients during their highest and lowest moments, making every event meaningful. He finds joy in seeing people have a great time at events he helped bring to life.
Fun Fact: Before diving into the world of catering and events, Jack was a backup dancer for Vanilla Ice—talk about cool moves!
After meeting her now-husband on Maui, Gabriella relocated to Minneapolis, where she expanded her expertise to include meetings, non-profit galas, award ceremonies, and social events. She thrives in the fast-paced and ever-changing world of events, finding joy in the unique challenges each day brings.
Gabriella’s favorite part of her work is building lasting relationships with repeat clients, who push her to innovate and elevate their events year after year. Her creative eye shines as she designs events with breathtaking décor, floral arrangements, and entertainment that leave a lasting impression.
A two-time ILIA Star Awards nominee and featured in Minnesota Bride Magazine, Gabriella’s dedication to excellence is evident in every event she touches. When she's not crafting unforgettable experiences, she’s exploring the world as a certified scuba diving instructor, having visited over 30 countries.
When he's not working, you can find him on the golf course, enjoying his favorite pastime.
After college, Haley worked as a day-of coordinator for a local wedding planner, where she fell in love with helping couples bring their dreams to life. She later gained valuable experience as an Event Coordinator for a Minneapolis restaurant group and continued to pursue her passion for weddings and special events.
Haley is inspired by the joy and excitement of wedding days, particularly seeing all the intricate details come together to create someone’s happiest moments. She thrives on staying up-to-date with the latest wedding trends and loves watching couples incorporate them into their big day.
Fun fact: Haley has been a vegetarian for 24 years!
What inspires Elise most is witnessing the pure joy of her clients on one of the happiest days of their lives. She treasures being part of the entire journey, from the initial planning stages to the final, unforgettable celebration.
Elise thrives on the meaningful connections she builds, not only with couples but also with professional event planners and talented vendors, such as photographers, videographers, and florists. Collaborating with such creative professionals is one of her favorite aspects of the industry.
Elise is an active member of NACE (National Association for Catering and Events), where she stays engaged with the latest trends and best practices in the event world.
Fun Fact: When she’s not busy planning events, Elise enjoys crocheting beautiful creations in her free time!
Patrick’s journey in hospitality began in 2000 when he started as a Banquet Server with D'Amico Catering. Over the years, he has gained a wealth of knowledge and experience, which has shaped his passion for solving problems and being a valuable resource for employees. He thrives in creating an environment where people feel supported and empowered.
What Patrick enjoys most about working in hospitality is the dynamic, upbeat energy it brings—there’s a special vibe in this industry that makes each day different and exciting. His passion for improving processes and helping employees succeed is what drives him to continuously improve and evolve within his role.
In addition to his hands-on experience, Patrick is certified as a Yellow Belt in Lean Six Sigma, a change management certification that helps him drive continuous improvement within the organization.
Outside of work, Patrick is an avid outdoors enthusiast who enjoys sports, travel, working out, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Having worked in the food industry for over 25 years and as a nursing assistant for 22 years, Carol transitioned to events and catering full-time in 2019. She finds joy in the energy of events, the diversity of cultures and traditions, and the fast-paced environment that aligns perfectly with her dynamic work style.
Fun Fact: Carol has toured with big names in the music industry and comes from a family of published authors. She has also won awards for her poetry and has a love for pizza, which she enjoys sharing with her kids.
Rebekah’s passion for hospitality began while working as a waitress and bartender during college. She has gained experience in diverse environments, from local establishments to the vibrant club scene in San Francisco. Her motivation stems from the opportunity to connect with new people and create distinctive, unforgettable experiences for each client.
What Rebekah Loves Most About Her Work: Rebekah enjoys the dynamic nature of her role—every day brings something new and exciting.
Fun Fact: Rebekah finds balance and inspiration through her love of gardening, camping, and spending time in the great outdoors.
What motivates Wes most in his role is being part of someone’s big day. It’s a true privilege to contribute to such special moments, and he takes that responsibility seriously. Wes thrives on the "Lights, Camera, Action!" energy of event days, finding joy in the hustle and controlled chaos that comes with making every celebration a success.
Fun Fact: When he's not orchestrating events, Wes is a huge music fan and enjoys spending his free time jamming out on his drum set at home.
Inspired by helping others, Nikita thrives on creating unforgettable experiences for clients and teaching behind-the-scenes tricks of the trade. She loves collaborating with the talented, creative people in the events industry, where every personality and background contributes to incredible celebrations.
Outside of work, Nikita stays busy as a mother to twin boys, Myles and Wesley. She enjoys music, hiking, and exploring Minnesota’s North Shore, often recharging with a day trip to Lake Superior. When she’s not with her kids or out in nature, you might find her at a local brewery, savoring an IPA with friends.

Our Story
Our company is defined by the employees. At Mintahoe, we are a true family company. With a dedicated core team, many with us for over twenty years, we take pride in our collective achievements. We care deeply about each other and our work, embodying what a company should be.
-Suzi, Jim, & Shawn McMerty