D'Ambria Jacobs- Chef Dee
D’Ambria Jacobs, widely known as Chef Dee, is the dynamic founder and executive chef of Sophisticated Delights Contemporary Catering, a thriving culinary brand with locations in both Houston and Dallas. Renowned for her creative flair and elevated approach to comfort cuisine, Chef Dee delivers luxe, flavorful experiences that have redefined what contemporary catering can be.
Her passion for food and entrepreneurship ignited early. With just $1,000, Chef Dee launched Sophisticated Delights while still a student at the University of Houston. Simultaneously, she mentored aspiring entrepreneurs through the SURE™ Program — supporting small business development even as she was building her own from the ground up and working full time. That drive and commitment eventually transformed her one-woman venture into a 7-figure business, now serving weddings, festivals, and private clients nationwide with destination catering and speaking appearances.
Chef Dee is also the proud creator of NeverBland Seasoning and Marinades, a gourmet product line born from her kitchen that now brings rich, bold flavor to homes and professional kitchens across the country. Her brand stands for more than great taste — it represents empowerment, authenticity, and excellence.
A landmark moment in her career came when she and her team made history as the first all-African American and first all-female team to win Food Network’s The Great Food Truck Race in its 13-season history. That win showcased not only her culinary skill but her leadership, resilience, and grace under pressure on a national stage.
Chef Dee’s mission is bigger than the plate — it’s about creating meaningful experiences and empowering others to pursue their dreams. From elegant weddings to high-energy festivals and educational platforms, she continues to inspire with every bite and every story she shares.
From Kitchen to Contract: Mastering Luxury Catering + Full-Service Event Execution
Day 1
How to Get and Retain Luxury Clients + Venues + Large-Scale Events: Build trust with elite clients and develop lasting relationships with venues and event producers.
Food Cost Analysis: Learn to accurately estimate costs and price with profitability in mind without sacrificing quality.
Creating Streamlined, Diverse Menus That Are Cost-Effective: Maximize variety while maintaining efficiency — Chef Dee’s menu design strategies will save you time and money.
P.R.E.P. – Proactive Research Evaluation Program: A signature system designed by Chef Dee to help you stay ahead in your business, not stuck reacting to problems.
Day 2
Practical Kitchen Tips + Cook With Chef Dee and Team: Hands-on culinary instruction, insider techniques, and smart prep strategies from a seasoned professional.
Buffet + Live Station Training: Learn how to design, set up, and execute visually stunning and smoothly operated buffet and live cooking stations.
Plated Meal Execution: Discover how to deliver full-service plated meals with flawless timing, elegance, and true production value.
Whether you're new to catering or ready to scale into the luxury space, this masterclass is your blueprint for sustainable growth, creative excellence, and professional success in the culinary event industry.