Our Team

Kristine Kittrell 

Before becoming a chef, I spent years traveling the world, savoring diverse cuisines and immersing myself in the food cultures that shape our dining experiences. Now, nearly 30 years later in Austin, Texas, I channel that curiosity and passion into creating exceptional dishes using the finest locally sourced ingredients. Building close relationships with local farmers, butchers, fishmongers, and artisans allows me to craft menus that are rooted in sustainability, seasonality, and community support. This commitment to quality and collaboration not only elevates every meal but ensures that guests enjoy a dining experience that is both memorable and meaningful, no matter the occasion. Whether it’s a farm-to-table feast or an intimate gathering, I believe in the power of exceptional ingredients and thoughtful preparation to transform any meal into something truly special.

COURTNEY WATSON

Based in the Texas Hill Country,  I’m a passionate culinary and wine expert with over 12 years of experience in the hospitality industry. With a background in both front-of-house and back-of-house operations, I specialize in crafting unforgettable dining and wine-tasting experiences. My expertise spans menu development, wine education, event planning, and team leadership.

Having worked with esteemed wineries and restaurants, I’ve honed my skills in pairing flavors, educating guests on global and regional wines, and creating seasonal, innovative menus. From serving as Head Chef at Southold Farm & Cellar to curating unique tasting experiences at Wild Seed Vineyards, I bring creativity, precision, and a deep appreciation for culinary arts and wine culture.

A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu with a Certificate in Culinary Arts, I’m dedicated to sustainability, quality sourcing, and elevating the guest experience. Whether leading a kitchen team or guiding a wine-tasting session, I seamlessly blend expertise with warmth, making every meal and pour an experience to remember.

JEFF
SCHMELZER

I thrive on crafting seamless, high-touch culinary experiences by elevating operations and logistics behind the scenes. At Catering Confidential, I ensure that every event—whether an intimate dinner or a large-scale affair—runs with precision, passion, and perfection. From menu execution to service logistics, I bring aspirational experiences to the everyday client. My approach empowers our team to deliver unforgettable dining moments with ease.

Before stepping into the world of luxury catering, I honed my skills in customer experience, managing operations and market research at an Austin tech titan. With a background in hospitality and social work, I’ve always been drawn to the power of human connection—whether through mentorship, service, or an exquisitely plated dish.

A proud Austinite since 2009 and a University of Texas alum, I bring a people-first mindset to everything I do, ensuring that both our clients and our team feel supported, valued, and inspired.