Table Talk | Oleander Catering
Zach Stanek | OWNER | Oleander Catering
What inspired you to get into the catering industry?
I’ve approached this whole thing with the attitude that I sure don’t know what I’m going for, but I’m going to go for it. I never really planned to get into catering, but things just sort of came together that way. It all started when I saw an opportunity to start a small café at the Topeka Vendors Market. It was something fun I could do on the side that eventually blossomed into what we do today.
I have always believed things come together the way the universe wants them to, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
How would you describe your approach to catering?
No frills. Simple, dependable and affordable. We pride ourselves on making connections with our guests and being people they feel confident in.
What are your most popular dishes?
Our grazing tables are very popular. We have so much fun putting them together and tailoring them to special occasions. Taco bars are probably the next most popular offering, because who doesn’t love tacos?
What has it been like to serve the people of Topeka?
We are very fortunate to have a lot of community members who focus on supporting local, and we’re so grateful for that. We enjoy meeting members of the community and making lasting connections.
What’s something most people don’t know about the catering business?
We work when our clients need us to. There isn’t really a set schedule in this line of work. We have delivered meals 60 miles away in the middle of the night. We’ve had days that start at 3:30 a.m. and don’t end until 9 p.m.
How do you like to give back to the Topeka community?
We are proud sponsors of the Special Olympics and love to donate auction items to local nonprofits, as well as give discounts to educators.
Do you have a favorite catering story?
I am from a small town called Olean, New York, which is where our business’s name comes from. One time we set up an event out in Perry and while we were there, the client mentioned to me that one of her friends was from a town not far from my hometown. I excitedly told her to pass my phone number along to her so we could catch up sometime, and I was so delighted when she reached out to me! We spent some time talking on the phone and I let her know that I was going back to New York soon. I told her I’d bring her back some of the regional snacks we’d talked about.
Fast forward a few months and I was able to meet up with her. She was so happy that I brought her some treats back from New York, and we had some laughs and a couple of great hugs. She has since passed away. I think about the experience often because our paths never would have crossed if it wasn’t for this venture.
What advice would you give someone who wants to start a catering business?
Make a list, check it, check it again and follow through. Be prepared for some long days and always allow yourself plenty of time to set up for events.
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