OUR STORY
Dennis Dean Catering & Events began as the singular vision of its founder, the late
Dennis Dean,
a celebrated and inimitable force who set a new standard in the Atlanta hospitality world.
Dennis Dean Catering & Events opened in 2001 against the most challenging of backdrops. Launching mere weeks before 9/11, as the economy stood still, Dean and his partner countered with pure determination.
​Their operation was the definition of lean; no support staff, only a handful of loyal clients, and a small, rented kitchen. Yet they proved that true quality requires no grand infrastructure as a powerful reputation for exceptional cuisine and artful presentation began to build.
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This was affirmed before their first anniversary, when Dennis Dean secured a coveted place on the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s "Book of Lists" as one of Atlanta's top 20 caterers, where they have remained.
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Since 2001, Dennis Dean Catering & Events has been Atlanta's choice for its most prestigious events. They've proudly served presidents, celebrities, and foreign dignitaries, as well as galas for 30,000 guests in addition to their clients' most important events. Through it all, their philosophy has never wavered: that restaurant-quality cuisine is only as good as the impeccable service it comes with. It’s this unwavering commitment to exceptional taste, in every sense, that defines Dennis Dean.
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In 2025, Annie Duncan and Adam Shoemaker took the helm, continuing to steward the legacy of excellence in hospitality with the innovative spirit and exacting detail that has defined DDC's celebrated success.
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Leadership
Annie Duncan’s DDC career began in 2009 as assistant to Dennis himself, eventually taking a role as Director of Sales. Proving she had a talent for the bigger picture, she briefly stepped away to master event design, her work earning spots in national publications. She brought that sharp eye back to DDC, rising from General Manager to her current role as President and Owner. When not guiding the company, she’s cooking with her husband and daughter, championing anti-hunger organizations, or passionately cheering on her alma mater. (War Eagle.)
Adam Shoemaker's love for hospitality began in 2010 at his family's pizzeria. What started as a high school gig soon became a clear career path, leading him to the prestigious Culinary Institute of America. He emerged armed with a potent combination: degrees in both Culinary Arts and Business Administration. He first honed his craft in Chicago's demanding restaurant scene before launching his own celebrated establishment with his wife, Olivia. A 2021 move brought him to Atlanta, and in 2023, he joined the DDC team. When he's not at events, he's enjoying time with his wife and son, collecting wine, or attempting to lower his handicap on the golf course.
In Loving Memory
While Dennis was a public force in hospitality, he was a private one in philanthropy. He was a known mentor and beloved friend, but his most profound contributions were often anonymous. It was only after his passing that many learned the true scope of his quiet generosity, particularly for charities supporting children and animals.
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If you would like to continue his legacy of giving, please click below.
