Today we’d like to introduce you to Eduarda Antunes.
Hi eduarda, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
At just 20 years old, I got married and moved to New York, completely unprepared for the kitchen. In fact, I couldn’t cook at all. My husband at the time took over the cooking duties for about eight months—and let’s just say, variety wasn’t on the menu. We had the same dish nearly every day: steak, french fries, and a fried egg. Occasionally, we’d switch it up with chicken—but the fries and egg were a constant. Eventually, I realized something had to change.
So, I bought myself three simple cookbooks and thought, I can read, I can follow directions—let’s give this a try. To my surprise, I loved it. That love for cooking led me to take a job preparing meals for a family in Philadelphia, and later, I had the opportunity to work for a high-profile family in New York. Within six months, they relocated to California, and I came along with a job that turned into a 24-year career as a full-time private chef for that same family.
Fast forward to when I was turning 50 and going through a divorce—I knew it was time for a new chapter. More importantly, I wanted to show my daughters what resilience looks like. I felt it was my responsibility as a mom to prove that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself.
With the support of friends, I launched a small catering business—Succulent by Eduarda—starting with word-of-mouth clients and simple handmade meals. Almost nine years later, I’m proud to have a loyal and diverse clientele. From preparing meals for weekly regulars to catering beautiful events and celebrations, I find so much joy in feeding people and being part of their special moments.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely wasn’t a smooth road—there were many challenges along the way.
Going through a divorce, leaving a job I had dedicated over two decades to, and selling our family home all happened within a short span of time. On top of that, I was raising two teenage daughters and starting a brand-new business—from scratch—without any family nearby in the U.S.
It was an emotional and uncertain period, but I was incredibly lucky to be surrounded by wonderful friends who believed in me. Their support helped me find the strength to believe in myself, even when the road ahead felt overwhelming.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I don’t work off a set menu. Every event is customized to reflect my clients’ tastes, preferences, dietary restrictions, and cultural influences. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for six or a larger celebration, I take the time to truly understand what will make the experience memorable for them.
I specialize in crafting vibrant, flavorful dishes from a variety of cuisines, and I bring an artistic eye to every table I set. Having a strong background in the arts, I infuse my food with creativity—paying close attention to presentation, color, and detail. I want everything to feel festive, welcoming, and beautiful.
What sets me apart is not only the food, but the connection I create with my clients. I’ve often been told I’m warm, personable, and easy to work with, which I take as a true compliment. I want people to feel cared for—from the first conversation to the final bite.
Succulent by Eduarda is known for thoughtful, flavorful food and a personal touch. I want readers to know that when they work with me, they’re not just getting a meal—they’re getting something created just for them, with care and love.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
In my experience, having a strong support system makes all the difference. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and want to see you succeed. Be willing to work hard, stay passionate about what you do, and most importantly—be flexible. Things don’t always go as planned, especially in this industry, so being able to roll with the punches is essential. I’ve found that genuine relationships, both personal and professional, are the best kind of network—they grow naturally when you show up with heart, dedication, and authenticity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://succulentbyeduarda.com
- Instagram: succulent.eduarda
- Facebook: Succulent
- Other: pinterest SucculentbyEduarda
Image Credits
Esselle Collective by Sarah (@essellecollective)
