My name is Karin Slade and I began Catering by Design in 1999 after travelling the world working in hospitality. My clients have included the French Prime Minister; the Chief Justice of Malta; Sir Colin Marshall and his wife from British Airways and James Strong and Geoff Dixon both past CEOs of Qantas. As well as hundreds of local families for christenings, birthday parties, weddings and wakes for up to 1000 people.
With over 30 years experience as an event manager and caterer in Australia, I now own four businesses: Catering By Design, Funerals By Design, Sailing By Design and Heavenly Catering, and I’m also a practicing funeral director.
In 2003 I experienced 8 funerals in 5 months amongst my immediate family and close friends. Looking back, I realised we were in a fog, had to make emotional decisions very quickly and then create an event with significance.
Since then, I have seen many others go through the same fog, stress and overwhelm, which is why I became a funeral director and created a specialised wake catering business, Heavenly Catering which understands and appreciates just what you may be going through.
I live on the Northern Beaches of Sydney, Australia with my partner John. We are now empty nesters with our two dogs. I am passionate about being involved in my local community and giving back.
My mission is to encourage death education just like we have sex education or financial education. Talking about sex won’t make you pregnant, talking about death wont make you dead.
Let me know how best to support you. I am here to help, guide and hold your hand while we arrange the details. I’m good for a hug and tissue too.