Today we’d like to introduce you to Autumn Milleville
Hi Autumn , please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I launched my catering business in 2021 after making the difficult decision to leave my full-time job in order to care for my elderly mother. With the support of my husband and brother-in-law, we transformed a small apartment behind our home into a fully equipped commercial kitchen, which became the foundation of my business.
Initially, I focused on baking, selling my creations at farmer’s markets and fulfilling custom cake orders. However, my business quickly evolved when I began offering charcuterie boards, which eventually led to providing full-service meals for vacationers seeking a private dining experience in their cabins.
Today, I am honored to be the exclusive caterer for a hotel in Gatlinburg, and my work primarily revolves around destination weddings, family reunions, and private chef services for clients looking for a more intimate culinary experience.
The growth I’ve experienced over the past few years has been incredible, and I am excited about the future. In 2025, my goal is to expand further by bringing on full-time staff, allowing me to dedicate more time to my family and our small homestead while continuing to elevate the services I offer.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The journey has certainly not been without its challenges. Along the way, I’ve had to learn some tough lessons—one of the most important being when to say no, when to ask for help and how to recognize the signs of burnout before it takes a toll.
Burnout is a very real struggle for small business owners. We pour our hearts into what we’re building—our clients, our goals, and our vision—sometimes at the expense of being fully present with our loved ones. Over the past four years, I’ve found myself in that place more times than I’d like to admit.
Thankfully, my incredible husband has been my anchor through it all. His unwavering support, patience, and understanding have been invaluable, helping me regain perspective when I’ve felt overwhelmed and pushing me forward when I needed it most.
I’ve also made great partnerships with other local vendors who have supplied servers, bartenders, even chefs when I’ve needed them for larger events. One particular company, Julia Events Staffing, has been an invaluable resource for me when I’ve needed to add staff to make sure an event was executed flawlessly. I couldn’t have done many of the events I have done without her and her amazing team!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Gatlinburg Gourmet LLC?
My business is built on a passion for creating unforgettable culinary experiences. What started as a small bakery selling at farmer’s markets has evolved into a thriving catering company specializing in destination weddings, family reunions, corporate gatherings and private chef services. I am also honored to be the exclusive caterer for a Gatlinburg hotel, providing high-quality, customized dining experiences for their guests.
What sets my business apart is the personal touch and attention to detail that goes into every event. I believe that food is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that brings people together. I am committed to using fresh, high-quality ingredients, meals made from scratch and taking pride in crafting menus that are tailored to each client’s unique tastes and needs. Whether it’s an intimate private dinner or a large-scale wedding, my goal is to create meals that leave a lasting impression.
One of the things I am most proud of is the reputation my brand has built over the years. Clients trust me not just for my food but for the seamless service and professionalism I bring to every event. I understand that catering is more than just delivering a meal—it’s about creating a stress-free, memorable experience for my clients and their guests.
For readers who may not be familiar with my business, I want them to know that Gatlinburg Gourmet is more than just a catering company. It’s a business that is passionate about hospitality, about making every event special, and about helping people create beautiful moments around the table. Whether you’re planning a wedding, a family gathering, or a private dining experience, we are here to bring your vision to life with exceptional food and service.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was a dreamer. My imagination often carried me away, and while friends and family sometimes teased me for being scatterbrained, I was simply lost in my own world of creativity and curiosity.
I loved spending time alone, diving into books that allowed my imagination to soar and exploring new skills like sewing, playing the piano, cooking, and gardening. At the same time, I had an adventurous spirit—I loved the outdoors, riding horses, climbing trees, building forts with my brothers, and fishing with my dad.
Faith was also a central part of my upbringing. My father was a pastor, so knowing Jesus, going to church, reading my Bible, and prayer were daily parts of my life. That foundation of faith has remained strong, and I still cling to it with both hands. Christ has blessed me abundantly—not only with this business but also with our home and the ability to be present for my mother in her later years. I truly believe I would not be where I am today without the grace of God.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://gatlinburggourmet.com
- Instagram: @gatlinburggourmet
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gatlinburggourmet/
