The Garden Party CLT: Making Memories Over Really Good Food

Some people make dinner. Joanna Adduci Reed makes magic.

Joanna, proud aunt to 7+ nieces and nephews, is the heart behind The Garden Party CLT, a private chef service bringing restaurant-quality meals into Charlotte homes. Her mission is simple: turn every meal into an occasion, and every gathering into a memory.

A New York native, Joanna spent years balancing a corporate career with her true passion for cooking and hosting. She trained with chefs across the globe (Ireland, Denmark, Italy, Puerto Rico, just to name a few!) and honed her skills through intimate supper clubs and food writing in NYC. In 2024, she took the leap and turned her side hustle into a full-time business in a passion-driven “second act”; Charlotte families have been eating it up.

“We believe great food creates meaningful connections and lasting memories,” Joanna says. “Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a milestone celebration, our mission is to make every meal feel special, personal, and deeply satisfying.”

The Garden Party CLT offers everything from weekly meal prep to grazing tables to private dining experiences — and they do it with an elevated, Instagram-worthy presentation.

It’s about giving families (especially busy moms!) the gift of time and nourishment, without the stress of planning, shopping, cooking, and cleaning.

And kids? They’re Joanna’s toughest (and most honest) critics. “Kids say how they feel, what they mean, and how much they love you -- with no bounds, no filter... kids are magical! They're also the most honest taste-testers, and have no issue speaking their minds.”

Joanna comes from a family of small business owners and is no stranger to the blood, sweat, and tears it takes to bring your dreams to life. “Supporting local isn't just a hashtag, it's a direct means to grow someone's livelihood and fuel their dream!” The business may still be young, but the impact is big: clients text her saying she’s saved them from fast food runs after long workdays, and she’s already been featured on Charlotte Today.

If you’re looking to reclaim your weeknights, host a party without living in the kitchen, or just experience food that looks as beautiful as it tastes — Joanna and her all-female team are ready to bring The Garden Party to you.

Learn more at thegardenpartyclt.com or follow along on Instagram @thegardenpartyclt.