NMWE:
How did you become a part of this industry?
Ryan Carey:
I started Fire and Co. in 2014 to provide onsite wood fired catering at many of the barn and farm venues that were emerging in Southern Maine. Everyone was so welcoming and enthusiastic and continue to be so today.
NMWE:
What sets you apart? / What is your most valued feature about your business?
Ryan:
Initially I would say the Vintage Trucks instantly set us apart. I did not want to be known as solely a food truck company so we started building out these wood fired grills and smokers that has really transformed our business. Between the vintage trucks, wood fired grills, bourbon barrel platters, wood fired food, plating presentation and bad-ass appetizers I hope we have a few unique things to offer…
NMWE:
What keeps you passionate and motivated?
Ryan:
Great question. I spent the first 2 – 3 years putting my head down and just grinding to try and get the business where it needed to be. Now I’ve picked my head up and we have a staff that can balloon to 60 people on Summer Saturdays. What motivates me now is to create a company where people want to go to work. Where other industry vendors want to work with us because they know it’ll be a success. Where couples can relate to our brand and want to be part of this story and have us be part of theirs.
NMWE:
What are your desired types of couples?
Ryan:
Since the beginning I have said we have the best couples in the world….and we do. I want to work with couples who I would want to hangout with. Most of our couples want their wedding to be fun, laid back and chill but impactful. From the music to the drinks they want their event to be a party. This is right up our ally.
NMWE:
Do you have a past favorite wedding? If yes, why is it your favorite?
Ryan:
Honesty, my twin brothers wedding was amazing. He had the reception at the Lions Club on Peaks Island, Maine. There was a large yard for our trucks to go which created its own section of the event. The Dapper Gents played during cocktail hour and then a DJ came on for late night partying. It was very laid back but had all the elements of an amazing event (great food & drinks, good music, yard games…and on an island in Maine).
NMWE:
What is your best piece of advice or tip for couples planning a wedding?
Ryan:
I learned quickly that having a Wedding Planner or at the least a Day-of- Coordinator takes a lot of work off the couples plate. It really helps ensure a successful event and honestly makes it easier on all vendors as their is a point- person at the event. The planner wants the event to be a success so they tend to bring in trusted vendors so that everyone can walk away giving high fives and hugs!
