Dianne McConnell

Experience

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  Hotdog Heaven

  Jan 1975 - Mar 1976

  Owner

  I list this because it was my first entrepreneurial experience and it was a financial bust. But I learned a lot - like how to work really hard. After this experience I had a series of jobs in the financial/banking industry (because I needed to recoup my pride and $$ after the dismal failure at a restaurant), but I loved it enough that I returned to the food business later.

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  Morgan Stanley

  Mar 1977 - Jan 1988

  Banking

  During this time, I worked for several investment companies in Charlotte, NC and NYC. Jobs included administrative work, equity research and sales.

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  A Matter of Taste

  Apr 1988 - Jan 2005

  Owner/Caterer

  As owner of A Matter of Taste, a full-service catering company in New York City and on Shelter Island, NY, I created menus and events. It was demanding and stressful at time, but fun. Biggest take-away: There are countless ways to celebrate and enjoy food, but it's the generosity of the host that's most appreciated. Open your heart and kitchen to friends and family and they'll be grateful (but do try to make it healthy if you can!)

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  Healthy Foods Matter

  Sept 2011 - Jul 2014

  Food Coach

  As a Food Coach, I offer support for anyone seeking to upgrade in their food plan. Services include individual or group meetings on healthy foods topics, including how to grocery shop and plan menus that include healthier options. I offer one-to-one classes in-home, or small group classes in a beautifully equipped location in Winston Salem.

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  Don't Crowd the Pan - It's Not Just Recipes

  Aug 2014 - now

  Cooking Instructor and Cookbook Author Seeking Publisher

  Upon retiring from the catering business, I was seeking a less demanding opportunity to use culinary skills. When offered the opportunity to teach cooking lessons at a local kitchen specialty store I accepted. I discovered that I really enjoy teaching others. With encouragement from friends and class participants I embarked on a cookbook project with Tam Benefiel. We set the ground rules in the beginning - it must be fun and stress free. It has been both, but it has taken quite a bit of time (we've also enjoyed lots of good food!) I still enjoy teaching and hope the book will help readers master the kitchen! Show less