I am delighted to be joined today by Daniel Gill, Founder of the Dine Group. Dine Group incorporates Dine, Dine Delivered and Rise Hall and has been operating for 23 years. Dine were winners of The Cateys in 2018, and CHS awards in 2019 reflecting their commitment to Making Every Event Special.
Daniel talks us through the amazing development of the group including the foresight to start Dine Delivered two years before the pandemic and the purchase of the 97 room stately home, Rise Hall.
While discussing the trials, learnings and successes of his career Dan talks us through the amazing party he would put on for 60 close friends and family. The party will be held in the Mirror Gallery at Versailles Palace, France.
The party will be in keeping to its surroundings with a Crystal and Candleabra theme and regency touches.
The dinner reflects Daniel’s love of fine food and drink with canapes including Pan Fried Scallops, Foie Gras and Shaved Radish with a julienne of vegetables. A Starter of Salt Cod Balls, a main course of Fillet of Beef served on a shin of beef and dessert a Grand Marnier Souffle. All much better explained by Daniel himself.
Dan was brought up in hospitality with his parents running a Michelin starred restaurant in Leeds, Yorkshire. His parents have continued to be an inspiration to him with their exceptional work ethic and passion for food & service.
Dan’s schooling in events included working under Pru Leith at Leith’s Events & Parties and then with Glynn Woodin at Mustard Catering in London.
He started his own business back in Yorkshire driving around Leeds delivering sandwiches and built his business up brick by brick: He admits to being a control freak when it comes to the development of his business.
Daniel talks us through the importance of being clear about your product, doing your homework, and believing you will get your break. He talks through this attention to detail including doing dress rehearsals for Dine Delivered so they are happy that clients will be able to successfully serve up a visual treat.
He also touches on the importance of learning from your clients, be these private or corporate, and reminisces on meeting Nelson Mandela and how his ability to make the service team feel part of the occasion had such an impact.