Dawn Parks, Executive Chef/Owner

 

Chef Dawn and her business partner Jess Kraus opened The Wild Thyme Company in 2005; with 10 years of culinary and management experience on her side, Chef Dawn was ready to put her passion to the test and showcase her amazing food and style at parties and events for San Diego's finest! Chef Dawn's culinary career was launched while attending the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco during which time she worked as a line cook at the prominent Sir Francis Drake Hotel. After graduating from culinary school in 1997, Chef Dawn returned home to Southern California and spent the next eight years growing into many different roles in various kitchens as Sous Chef, Executive Chef and Corporate Chef. Chef Dawn managed 11 restaurants with four different concepts within the Aloha Group, opened up the W Hotel and ran the cafe/catering at the prestigious Salk Institute. All of this exposure to different environments, endless challenges and a wide range of food concepts positioned Chef Dawn as the perfect candidate to succeed as an upscale caterer!

The Wild Thyme Company's strong staff of 21 people now caters and plans special events of all sizes, styles and cuisine all over the county on a daily basis. Chef Dawn is so proud to have her company be recognized as a preferred partner at some of the most prestigious venues in San Diego. In addition to her culinary and entrepreneurial prowess, Chef Dawn is also active in her community, serving on the board for the March of Dimes Signature Chef's Event.

Dawn and Reggie Parks happily reside in the college area of San Diego with their four children (aged 8 to 15) and two golden retrievers. When she is not cooking, working at events or making the rounds around town, you can find Chef Dawn either camping with her family or racing with San Diego Outrigger Canoe Club.