Together as a Team

As the holiday season approaches, many people are preparing for gatherings with family and friends, continuing long-time traditions and making cherished memories. For those who work in hospitality, especially in restaurants, holidays and their traditions can look a little different. The season is still filled with special moments, but they must naturally channel some of the excitement and adrenaline of the holidays into their work.

Even if they can’t be with family and friends on the traditional day of celebration, team members from our Blackberry restaurants have their own way of keeping holiday magic alive. Sous chefs from the kitchens at Blackberry Farm and Blackberry Mountain shared a little about what holidays look like for them and the traditions they look forward to as they celebrate with their team and the guests that will share their holiday meals at a Blackberry table.

“Because the holidays are usually spent at the restaurant, I like to embrace my work family. They are special people that I am around nearly every day. Every year we do a pie competition for all the chefs to compete in. Everyone makes a pie of their choice, savory or sweet, and then before the busy service, we all sit down and try the pies. It really allows the chefs to take a breath and have fun since the holidays can sometimes be hectic.”
– Josh Weaver, Sous Chef at Three Sisters, Blackberry Mountain

“I do generally work the holidays, so I try to celebrate with my family before or after. But, because I do work so much, it’s kind of like having a second family. We have a special family meal on the holidays and try to incorporate something themed into our pre-desserts. It’s a fun way to do something different but also make the most of working that day.”
– Tiffani Holt, Pastry Sous Chef at the Barn, Blackberry Farm

“Every holiday that you work at the Farm, the kitchen team tries to make it as special as we can – whether it’s bringing in Chinese takeout for family meal or the managers bringing in candy and goodies for the whole team that works that day. We play music and have a fun day being with our second family.”
– Justin Miller, Sous Chef at the Dogwood, Blackberry Farm

“Most of the time, we work on the holidays and are away from family. I’ve always appreciated cooking a nice holiday meal for the team and eating together on days like Thanksgiving or Christmas. Doing so with my Blackberry coworkers is like spending the holidays with a second family.”
– Jason Bryson, Sous Chef for In Room Dining, Blackberry Farm