From the age of 14, starting as a dishwasher at a barbecue restaurant, I fell in love with the food industry. My passion and talent didn't go unnoticed — I was a manager by 18. In college, I worked at a Marriott, running the grill and fryer, and within a year I was running the front line and helping with big events and banquets, developing an interest in culinary arts. I realized food wasn't just about cooking — presentation mattered too, and I was already, in a sense, "food styling."

After graduating, I went straight into architecture and interior design, and practiced in that field for 18 years. When I left, I was searching for new interests and skills, unsure of my next move. As an artist, I wanted to frame the unique — something hands-on and creative that could pull together all my experience, talents, and skills, and still put my efforts to good use.

I'd always been drawn to commercial advertising. Living on South Beach in the '90s, I was surrounded by compelling photoshoots happening all around me. In 2000, I pursued that interest and landed a job in a photo studio. Over two decades in the industry, I became a well-rounded stylist, and for the past 18 years, my primary focus has been food styling.

If you'd told me, back when I was flipping hamburgers at a Marriott, that four decades later I'd still be doing the same thing — just in a very different way — I wouldn't have believed you.

Regards, Frankie

954-336-3912 | fmchacon@bellsouth.net