Our Roots

Owner. Visionary. Storyteller.

James is a seasoned professional with over 20 years’ experience in Destination Management, Event Production, Event Supply, Cooking and Catering. He is not only Peake’s visionary owner, he’s also one heck of a nice individual to collaborate with when catering an event. James believes passionately in listening to each client’s ideas, then transforming them into delectable cuisine at an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind celebration. Ask James to recount one of his legendary culinary stories – it won’t disappoint.

Integrator. Master Organizer. Artist.

Being born and raised in North Vancouver makes Matt an original Vancouverite. It’s clear that Matt’s passion is organization, a skill he has mastered after nearly 25 years in event -related industries. Moving people, equipment, vehicles and naturally, great food, is what he does so well, to the awe of teammates and fellow company directors. On occasion, the Peake team is lucky to get a glimpse of Matt’s considerable artistic abilities, including hilarious team renditions.

Executive Chef. Catering Star. Foodie.

As a youngster, Michael watched his parents engage the challenges of running a kitchen. Witnessing this culinary dedication, he followed in their footsteps. Michael enjoyed success in prominent Hyatt Hotels, further broadening his skills with great chefs and restaurants, including Michelin- starred Chef Thomas Heinrich. Since joining Peake, he has showcased his catering talents magnificently. Michael and his wife’s passion for fine food is also demonstrated with their amazing knowledge of the Vancouver dining scene.

Director of Operations. Beverage Guru. Action Man.

Alex is a food enthusiast with over 20 years’ experience in the events industry. He brings a highly dedicated and detailed perspective to Peake, with an eye for finding process-driven solutions to challenging problems. Alex also lends his knowledgeable voice to Peake’s beverage procurement decisions, bringing on board BC’s finest beverage supplies for our customers to enjoy. During his free time, Alexander enjoys travelling, swinging kettlebells and playing soccer, sometimes all at the same time.

HR Generalist. Reality TV Enthusiast.

She began her career in the service industry before discovering her passion for HR. Drawing from her experience in a tech startup, she now expertly merges her HR skills with her service industry roots. Her role involves everything from recruitment to employee engagement, ensuring a positive and productive workplace. In the summer, you’ll find her camping or paddleboarding, while winter is reserved for indulging in reality TV.

Director of Sales. Fluevoger. Hot Yoga-er

For Gemma, exceptional catering is about more than great food—it’s about creating unforgettable moments. With over 20 years of hospitality expertise, she has helped design custom culinary experiences for some of Vancouver’s standout corporate galas, holiday parties, and private events. Whether collaborating with iconic local venues or tailoring bespoke menus, Gemma will ensure every detail is executed with creativity, precision, and warmth…likely sporting a fabulous pair of Vogs!

Senior Sales & Events Manager. Personality. Fashionista.

Since joining Peake in 2013, Natalia has planned some of our largest and most prestigious events. Her driven, sincere and personable manner creates a wonderful impression for each of her clients. From small intimate get-togethers to large, plated dinner galas for over 1,000 guests, our staff and customers know Natalia will carry out each event to perfection. And as a bonus, she lights up any room with the sparkling ‘bling’ she wears with every outfit.

Sales and Events Manager. All-Around Gal. Go-Getter.

Armed with a robust education in hospitality and business management, Janine boasts over 15 years of expertise in the service industry including pivotal roles at esteemed establishments like Pan Pacific Hotel, Telus, and Boston Pizza. Notably, she excelled as an Assistant General Manager for seven years at a prominent chain restaurant, showcasing exceptional leadership and organizational skills. Janine is a versatile asset in any role, and her fervent passion for event planning and mixology, coupled with a love for exploring new culinary experiences, sets her apart.

Brock House Sales Manager. Bibliophile. Ren-Faire Enthusiast.

Elise joins Peake of Catering from an extensive hospitality background all over North America. Born in Hawaii and raised in New Jersey, she brings an east coast state of mind to our doorstep. After graduating from Florida State University, she began an events management career at Old Edwards Inn, NC where she excelled in event operations and sales alike. Moving to Ontario in 2019 came with new Event Sales opportunities at Elora Mill and Cambridge Hotel and Conference Centre. Peake, and our exclusive partnership with Brock House, is the next exciting step in her career! Elise is a seasoned traveller, in and out of the continent, but when she’s not immersed in the world of events, she prefers to spend her days coupled with her dog, her partner, and a captivating book. As an aficionado of extra dirty gin martinis and a lavish vacation (on a budget), she knows how to unwind and savour life’s little pleasures.

Sales & Event Manager. Hostess with the Mostess. Natural Wine Lover.

 With more than 20 years in hospitality and events, Amanda loves bringing people together through great food and memorable experiences. Her background spans sales, event planning, operations, logistics, and entrepreneurship – including launching her own soup company, Rebel Soup!  Known for her warmth, creativity, and attention to detail, Amanda helps make every event feel seamless, whether it's an intimate celebration or a large-scale gathering. She is currently working toward her Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation and continues to find inspiration in an industry she truly loves!

Sous Chef. Motorcycle Enthusiast. Fun Guy. Sincere

With a career spanning a quarter of a century in hospitality, Mike has an impressive list of work experience that commenced in Toronto. His journey boasts a stint as the lead event Chef at the renowned Art Gallery of Ontario, followed by being the inaugural Chef to be internally appointed at Ripley's Aquarium. Mike further embellished his culinary journey at esteemed establishments such as Il Fornello and Trattoria Nervosa. Upon relocating to Vancouver, Mike has continued to excell at Peake, where he has been for nearly seven years. Mike loves events, fulfilling memorable moments for our guests through the medium of delicious food.

Sous Chef. Canape Gurl. Coffee Connoisseur. Fried Chicken Lover.

With over 12 years of culinary experience, Vivian is Peake's resident canapé guru.

Known for creating beautiful, flavour-packed bites, she draws inspiration from seasonal ingredients and cuisines from around the world. Combining classic technique with a creative touch, Vivian crafts canapés that are as memorable as they are delicious—bringing bold flavours, elegant presentation, and a little bit of fun to every event.

Events & Service Manager. Innovator. Swiss Army Knife.

A seasoned professional in the hospitality and catering industry with an impressive 40-year career. With 13 years dedicated to Peake Catering | Events, her expertise in delivering exceptional culinary experiences is unmatched. Valerie has a remarkable talent for decor, design, and staging, creating breathtaking atmospheres for any occasion. When not captivating guests with her catering magic, you can find Valerie indulging in her passions for gardening and exploring the vibrant streets of Mexico City.

Events and Service Coordinator. Poker Shark. Nature Girlie.

Born and raised in a small French Acadian village in northern Cape Breton, Shayla brings that unmistakable East Coast warmth and hospitality to everything she does. With a background in advertising and marketing—and a passport full of stamps from over 30 countries—she’s always had an eye for detail and a knack for pulling people together to celebrate. From developing an EDM festival to playing in a professional poker tournament (yes, really), Shayla is full of surprises. She’s fully bilingual, a proud vegetarian, and happiest when she’s outside, moving, exploring, and making magic happen behind the scenes at Peake.