top of page
Search

The First Day of Spring!


ree

Nadia here, thinking about how I enjoyed the sun we had, in Seattle, a couple of days ago. Thinking about spring and how important this season is for all, especially Pies Boards And Books. The fresh fruits and veggies in season, along with new reasons to gather with the people in your life. Spring time can arguably be the best season of all...


The first day of spring, also known as the Vernal Equinox, is a time of renewal and rebirth. It marks the beginning of a new season and a new cycle of life. As the days get longer and the weather starts to warm up, people everywhere begin to emerge from their winter hibernation and embrace the beauty of spring.


Like last Sunday, a lot of people shopped at Pike Place Market. It was a clear day, no spring showers. Tourist walking around with light jackets munching on Honey's Pies and other goodies. I could feel the spring time.


One of the most notable features of spring is the blooming of flowers. Daffodils, tulips, and cherry blossoms are just a few of the many flowers that begin to bloom in the early days of spring. As the snow melts away, the ground becomes fertile once again and the beauty of nature is on full display.


ree

Spring is also a time for cleaning and renewal. Many people use this time to clean their homes and declutter their lives. It's a time to let go of the old and make room for the new. This can be a very therapeutic process and can help people to feel more energized and refreshed.


Another hallmark of spring is the return of wildlife. Birds begin to migrate back to their summer homes, and animals come out of hibernation. The sounds of birds chirping and the sight of animals playing in the sun are a welcome sign that winter is over and warmer days are ahead.


One of the most important aspects of spring is the idea of new beginnings. It's a time to set new goals, start new projects, and pursue new interests. As the world comes back to life, it's the perfect time to take advantage of the renewed energy and focus on personal growth.


ree

Spring is the season to focus on incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet so never feel guilty when booking your grazing experience. Fruits and vegetables are not only delicious, but they also provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber that are important for a healthy lifestyle. In this blog, we'll take a look at some of the best fruits and vegetables to enjoy in the springtime that I serve clients of Pies Boards And Books.

  1. Strawberries: Strawberries are a springtime favorite for many people. These juicy red berries are packed with vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Always an essential item when I'm creating my signature charcuterie boards and grazing tables.

  2. Asparagus: Asparagus is a versatile vegetable that is in season during the spring. It is low in calories and high in nutrients like folate, vitamin K, and vitamin C. I love to pickle asparagus. It's always a client favorite.

  3. Peas: Peas are another spring vegetable that is packed with nutrition. They are a good source of fiber, protein, and vitamins A and C. It's very common for me to use snap peas as garnish.

  4. Radishes: Radishes are a colorful and crunchy vegetable that add a pop of flavor to any dish. They are a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Radishes always do well on the grazing tables served with dips.

  5. Mangoes: Mangoes are a tropical fruit that are in season during the spring. They are a good source of vitamins A and C and potassium. Mangoes are the fun fruits that make the boards extra pretty because they get sliced and manipulate.

  6. Spinach: Spinach is a leafy green vegetable that is in season during the spring. It is low in calories and high in nutrients like vitamin K, vitamin A, and iron. Spinach can be used to decorate the grazing experience - a garnish. Not really used for my style of grazing.

  7. Pineapple: Pineapple is a sweet and juicy tropical fruit that is in season during the spring. It is a good source of vitamin C, manganese, and bromelain, an enzyme that aids in digestion. Pineapple are definitely a beautiful touch to a luxury grazing experience. I love using pineapples when the client wants a brunch style grazing table.


Whether you prefer sweet fruits like strawberries and mangoes or savory vegetables like asparagus, there are plenty of options to choose from. So look forward to your luxury grazing experience with Pies Boards And Books and enjoy the delicious and nutritious bounty of the spring season while remembering It's a time to embrace the beauty of nature, spring clean and renew, and start fresh with new goals and aspirations. So, take some time to enjoy the beauty of spring and all that it has to offer.


Nadia,

Pies Boards And Books

 
 
 

Comments


Q. What does a private chef do?

 

As your private chef, I create a personalized dining experience right in your own home. I handle everything from menu planning to grocery shopping, preparation, cooking, and cleanup all in your kitchen.

Q. Where is the food prepared?

All meals are prepared in the client’s home kitchen (or a kitchen of your choosing).

Washington State law requires that food sold or served to clients be cooked on-site in their own kitchen, not in a chef’s personal or home kitchen. This ensures full compliance with local food safety regulations.

 

Q. Can you prepare food in your own kitchen and bring it to me?

 

No. Washington law does not allow private chefs to prepare or store food in their personal home kitchen for clients. Everything must be cooked fresh in your home or another approved facility.

 

If you’d like advance prep (like sauces, doughs, or pies), I can prepare them at your location before your event.

 

Q. Do you provide the groceries, or do I?

 

Clients are responsible for the cost of all groceries.

You can either:

 

  • Purchase them yourself (from my curated shopping list), or

  • Have me shop for you and I’ll provide the grocery total to your invoice.

This separation is required because, under Washington law, the service (chef labor) and food cost are distinct transactions.

 

Q. Is grocery shopping included in the chef fee?

 

No. the private chef fees covers my time for sourcing, selecting, and transporting your ingredients. The cost of ingredients is separate and billed at actual cost.

Q. Can you meal prep or deliver ready-made meals?

No. I do not offer meal prep or meal delivery services.

All dishes are prepared fresh in your home for immediate enjoyment. You’re welcome to keep leftovers safely stored for later use.

 

Meal prep and off-site food sales require separate food business permits under Washington State law, which I do not operate under.

 

 

Q. Do you provide equipment or cookware?

Yes. I primarily use my kitchen equipment for cooking. However, there are instances where I will use your kitchen equipment. To serve you and your guest, I use the available kitchen dishes.

If there’s any specialty equipment or ingredient needed, I’ll let you know beforehand so we can plan accordingly.

 

Q. How is pricing structured?

 

Pricing is based in parts. I will always provide a clear quote before confirming your booking: 

  • A chef service fee (based on hours, number of guests, and menu complexity)

  • A grocery reimbursement (actual cost of food, with receipt)

  • A travel fee

  • The price per private meal based on menu items

A 50% deposit is due at booking to reserve your date, and the remaining balance is due several days before service. Consultations and a kitchen walk through is mandatory to ensure this will be a perfect fit. 

 

Q. What areas do you serve?

I currently serve Seattle and surrounding areas.

For travel outside city limits or extended events, travel fees will apply.

 

 

Q. Do you handle cleanup?

Yes . I leave your kitchen as clean as I found it. Cleanup of cooking surfaces, dishes, and utensils used during service is included.

 

Q. Are you licensed and insured?

Yes. I operate as a registered business in Washington and maintain appropriate insurance coverage for private chef services.

Because all cooking is done in the client’s home, no commercial food license or health inspection is required. 

Also, I am not apposed to a background check. The background check fee is your responsibility. 

 

Q. What kinds of food can you prepare?

 

Almost anything you can imagine -  Southern-inspired dinners, elegant brunches, intimate date-night menus, and family-style meals, charcuterie and grazing tables.

Certain high-risk or specialized foods (like raw seafood or preserved items) may require special preparation and will be discussed during menu planning.

 

Q. Can you make your famous Honey's Pies?

Absolutely!  I can bake them fresh right in your kitchen!

For retail or off-site pie sales, I work through licensed facilities and follow Washington’s cottage food and wholesale guidelines.

 

Q. What should I have ready before you arrive?

Please make sure:

 

  • Your kitchen is clean and accessible

  • Counter space and stove/oven are available

  • The refrigerator has room for ingredients

  • Pets are safely out of the way during cooking hours

That helps ensure your service runs smoothly and safely.

© 2026 Powered by NadiaMoseley.com 

bottom of page