Vanessa is the Director of Blue Ribbon Cooking, offering award-winning catering, event, and wedding services focused on creating unforgettable events.

Vanessa was raised in Blue Ribbon’s kitchen and quickly realized she shared her mother’s passion for culinary-focused events. In 2008 Vanessa took over management of the cooking school from her family (Virginia & Mike Duppenthaler) and built out the full-service catering and event-design side of the company.

Vanessa has been recognized for her savvy business skills, dedication to community involvement, and the success of her business by winning the Nellie Cashman Women Owned Business of the Year Award and being named on PSBJ’s 40 under 40 list.

Vanessa’s passion is bringing communities, teams, and families together and back to the dining table to collaborate and celebrate life!