Small Business:

Economic Slowdown Viewed with Optimism
By Jane Erickson • ARIZONA DAILY STAR • Monday, January 29, 2001 • BUSINESS SECTION

No couple's going to let a little economic slump interfere with their wedding. At least that's what chef Steven Gendel is hoping.

Steven Gendel makes hors d'oeuvres of seared shrimp to introduce a small meal for the Myers Group staff before preparing the main course - salmon with bell peppers coulis.

Photos by A.E. Araiza / Staff

At A Perfect Occasion, a Tucson catering business, the main course of salmon with red pepper coulis is accompanied by asparagus spears, sautéed onions and portabello mushrooms.

Gendel owns A Perfect Occasion, a catering business that handles weddings, bar mitzvahs, corporate dinners and other gatherings of four to 400. While small-business owners around the country fear a possible recession, Gendel and other Tucson entrepreneurs - including operators of temporary workers service and a heating and air conditioning company - agree they're just paying closer attention to the bottom line for now.

Now in its fourth year, A Perfect Occasion is slowly but steadily becoming known for Gendel's sophisticated creations. A garlic-jalapeño-chevre-shrimp concoction called Buscando las Ballenas is one example. Others include a root-medley puree called Mashed Potatoes Without the Potatoes and, for dessert, Chocolate Raspberry Delight.

While his clients are enjoying their repasts, pianist Gendel can provide background music.

Now heading into one of his busiest times of - spring is a big season for celebrations before the dog days of summer set in - Gendel says he is not overly worried about the nation's economy. "Right now our bookings look fine, as good as last year's," Gendel says. "I do have some concern," he adds, "but I'm generally optimistic." If necessary, Gendel says, he can cut back on his staff of eight, which includes two cooks. "I don't expect such a downturn that it will significantly impact the sector I'm in," he says.

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