*** SEE NEW CLASSES JUST ADDED FOR 2009! ***
A Little Taste of Who We Are
Epicurean Exchange inspires individuals to bring a sense of balance, empowerment, well-being and enjoyment to their lives by providing culinary experiences, adventures and education. Through our programs with corporations and individuals that focus on basic culinary skills, wellness and lifestyle enrichment, we strive to impart our philosophy; that embracing the day’s routines and rituals with greater awareness and commitment adds quality to life. The “exchange”, takes place in the environment we create; one of optimal learning and understanding between like-minded participants. We believe this environment encourages the commitment these individuals and work groups have made to more mindful living.
Epicurean Exchange was founded in 1999 by Charles Vollmar with the belief that awareness, simply applied, will help us define and meet personal goals. Charlie is a popular cooking instructor, consultant, writer and chef/owner of Epicurean Exchange. A graduate of the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, his work emphasizes basic skill and technique work, and wellness and lifestyle enrichment topics relating to cooking, nutrition, fitness and special needs. His days are spent teaching at top-notch culinary schools, designing custom wellness programs for corporate clients, health clubs and wellness clinics, facilitating interactive workshops, and is currently working on his first book.
Companies in the Kitchen
Epicurean Exchange specializes in dynamic cooking events for businesses and organizations. In a comfortable and stimulating environment, we provide culinary activities that mirror workplace challenges. In the kitchen, work groups will prepare one of several courses from a seasonal menu and then sit down to enjoy the delicious results together. Employees learn about the impact their work styles have on each other and workplace situations. As a result employers can expect greater productivity and improved workgroup dynamics. Employees will approach professional situations with greater confidence and clarity, and will be motivated to embrace positive life skills.
Corporate Wellness
As a compliment to our cooking programs, Epicurean Exchange blends cooking with custom-designed workshops that focus on managing the effects of external factors on daily work life. Programs are presented by experts in their fields.Topics include the following:Nutrition and fitness for working professionals; Stress Reduction/ Management Skills; Aligning TeamsWork/Life Balance - Programs can also be developed to address your specific corporate needs and objectives
‘Kitchen Fitness’ - Personal Training for the Kitchen
Epicurean Exchange offers personalized ‘kitchen fitness’ programs that assess and transform your shopping, cooking and eating habits the way a personal trainer would restructure your fitness routine. A typical program of 3 four-hour sessions includes : 1. In-Home Assessment - We evaluate equipment, pantry,meal-planning and organization. We consult with the individual or family to determine goals and preferences. We develop an initial provisions list and present shopping strategies. 2. Neighborhood Market Visit - We expose you to unfamiliar foods and emphasize variety and nutritional aspects. 3. The last session is a chance to review the previous work and fine-tune plans for maintaining a lasting program forbetter eating. The balance of each session will focus on hands-on preparation of core recipes using ingredients and concepts discussed. Each participant will receive a manual including shopping lists, recipes and menus to build on. Program fee includes personal instruction, materials and food.
Private Cooking Parties and Demonstrations
Epicurean Exchange offers lively entertaining alternatives with private cooking parties, demonstrations and classes. For groups of 6-50 guests, choose a sit-down meal with a team approach to cooking, or an interactive class or demonstration on a subject of your choice. Parties are held in your home or distinctive kitchen venues throughout the Bay Area. We offer seasonal menus using the finest and freshest local ingredients.
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