An Inspired Chat with Simona Lauren of Scottsdale

Simona Lauren shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Simona, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Nature—always. Lately, I’ve been finding so much joy in spending time outdoors, especially by the lake, surrounded by mountains and forest. Sharing simple, beautiful meals with family and friends in that kind of setting feels incredibly grounding. Boating, being near water, unplugging—it gives me space to breathe and reconnect.

Gardening has also been a big source of joy, even though it’s definitely a challenge in the Arizona summer heat! Still, there’s something deeply satisfying about growing your own ingredients and being able to bring them into the kitchen. We’ve been cultivating herbs, squash, peaches, figs, lemons, oranges, tomatoes, and edible flowers—and I love weaving those farm-to-table elements into my menus. It’s such a refreshing way to clear my mind and get inspired all over again.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Simona Lauren—I’m a private chef and creative culinary director based in Arizona, originally from Lithuania. My work is rooted in storytelling through food, with a deep focus on seasonality, sensory experience, and meaningful connection. I create intimate dining experiences that blend thoughtful flavors, artful presentation, and emotional resonance—every menu is custom-crafted and inspired by nature, memory, and the people I’m cooking for.

I founded my brand to go beyond traditional catering—what I offer is an immersive experience that honors the beauty of shared meals, the integrity of ingredients, and the energy of the moment. Whether it’s a retreat, a private celebration, or a curated event, each experience is designed to feel personal, poetic, and unforgettable.

In addition to my private chef work, I also lead Signature Gold & Flowers, a concept where food, design, and atmosphere meet. Through this, I curate full-scale events—from creative planning to the very last guest leaving. I take great joy in crafting not only the menu but the entire experience—layering in flowers, tablescapes, lighting, music, and all the intentional touches that bring a gathering to life.

At the heart of it all, my work is about joy, connection, and intention—creating beauty and warmth through food, one experience at a time.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
Food has always been my world—for as long as I can remember. My earliest sense of power came in my grandmother’s kitchen, making pierogis and cakes by her side. She had incredibly high standards, and I took that as a challenge even as a child. I remember the determination I felt to get things just right—her way. That drive to learn and improve stuck with me.

Even when I went on to study economics (my parents’ choice, not mine), my heart was still dreaming of kitchens, restaurants, and the energy of hospitality. I knew I didn’t just want to be in the industry—I wanted to understand it from the inside out. By the age of 19, I became the general manager of one of Lithuania’s top restaurants. I was constantly asking questions, learning from chefs, studying food and wine, and probably annoying everyone in the process! I needed to understand everything—how to filet fish, break down meat, which spices belonged where and why.

At one point, someone told me I wasn’t “qualified” to speak on the menu. It stung—but it also lit a fire in me. I took that as fuel. Every time someone said you can’t, I turned it into a challenge to prove them wrong. And I did—from becoming a chef, sous chef, executive chef, to winning Food Network’s Chopped and earning the title of Chopped Champion. Each of those moments has felt powerful in its own way—but it all started with dough under my nails and a fierce little girl determined to keep up with her grandmother.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There definitely was. It was never the long hours or hard work—that part never scared me. What truly tested me was starting over. Changing countries and having to rebuild everything from scratch was incredibly humbling. No matter how strong your resume is or what you’ve accomplished before, you often find yourself needing to prove your worth all over again. Sometimes that means taking positions below your experience just to get your foot in the door—and that can be really tough on the spirit.

There were moments I questioned everything—even considered returning to my degree in economics. But deep down, I knew that food was my path. So instead of stepping away, I decided to combine both worlds: my love for food and my business background. That decision became the foundation for starting my own business, and it gave me the power to grow into something stronger, more grounded, and truly my own.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
They would probably say that family is everything to me. Their support has been the foundation behind everything I do—without them, I wouldn’t be able to dream as boldly or reach as far.

They’d also tell you how much I’m moved by art—whether it’s a painting, a book, or a modern installation, I don’t just see the surface. I see the feeling, the soul behind it. That sense of depth inspires me constantly.

Freedom of creativity is another big one. I really value having space to reflect, to pause, and to dive deep into my own thoughts. That’s often where the most meaningful ideas for menus, events, or unexpected client moments come from—those quiet, in-between spaces.

Music is also a huge part of my world. Jazz, especially—it’s my safe space. It’s like restaurant music to me: soft and gentle one moment, then intense and powerful the next. It reflects so much of how I experience creativity.

And finally, sharing—always. Sharing food, stories, experiences, memories—it’s what life is about. I think that’s what makes everything I do feel purposeful.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What false labels are you still carrying?
“She’s a woman, she’s short, she’s pretty—what could she possibly know?”
These are the kinds of assumptions I’ve quietly carried for years, especially as someone who came from another country, telling a story that many didn’t expect—or take seriously at first.

But those labels usually don’t last long. Once I step into the kitchen or into a space I’ve created, everything changes. I let my work speak louder than appearances. What people quickly learn is that I’m strong-willed, deeply genuine, precise, creative, caring, and yes—sometimes strict when it comes to the details. I hold high standards because I care so deeply about what I do.

Those early judgments used to sting. Now, I let them fuel me—to break the mold, rewrite the narrative, and lead by example.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://simonalauren.com
• Instagram: @chefsimonalauren
• Facebook: @chefsimonalauren

Image Credits
All pictures are taken by me