At first glance, theater and catering might seem worlds apart, but for Schaffer's Account Manager, Janet Russell, and Staffing Manager, Seth Gorelik, their deep theater backgrounds have proven to be invaluable in crafting unforgettable events. Janet, a former stage manager in the Bay Area theater scene, brings her precision, organizational skills, and calm under pressure to every event she helps coordinate. Just as in theater, where every moment is meticulously planned, Janet ensures that every detail of an event runs smoothly—from timing the food service to handling last-minute changes—creating a seamless experience for clients and guests alike.
Seth, who has been immersed in the theater industry since childhood and studied at the Stella Adler Conservatory, uses his theater training to connect with people and foster a welcoming, engaging atmosphere. Whether managing a team of servers or interacting with clients and guests, Seth applies the same interpersonal skills he developed as an actor to make everyone feel valued and at ease. His ability to maintain a professional yet friendly demeanor in high-pressure situations ensures that guests have a memorable experience from start to finish.
While theater and catering may seem like distinct industries, they share several key similarities: time management, teamwork, intensity and creating unforgettable experiences. Both require meticulous planning, effective communication, and the ability to adapt to the unexpected. Janet and Seth’s theater backgrounds allow them to approach catering events like live productions, ensuring that each one unfolds flawlessly. At Schaffer, they know that an event is more than just a gathering—it's a live production, and they are the directors, ensuring that the show goes on without a hitch.
