Finding a personal chef can be a daunting task. First you've gotta reconcile yourself to thinking of the benefits and how it can free you up beyond the actual cost of it and then comes the more challenging part - hiring one that works for you. Here are a few simple ways you can go about it.

First if you're reading this and you have the ability to go online, google it. I can't tell you the times that I've had to locate something and instead of doing the traditional hunt and peck method: looking through phone books; calling around; and so on, I get on my trusty computer and simply type my question into the google search bar. Once you do that, you will get a return on your search query that will truly amaze you. Hundreds, thousands and sometimes even millions of results will show up for you to choose from; all in one place.

Second, target a few of your search results and begin to look over them. Which ones feel like ones you'd want to pursue further? Which ever ones they are, get their contact information and contact them. This is where things begin to take off.

Ask them questions like what is the process of checking them or their personal chef members out for a potential contract. What I would tend to look for are chefs who are forward thinking, health conscious, versatile and are skilled at and have a love for what they do with a good attitude and have insurance coverage. They have to be quality, add value, have good pricing, convenient to boot and... packaging for me is important. I hate having my food stored in plastic; it's gotta be glass for me. Do they hold a passion for what they do? If they're just doing it because it'll get them a paycheck and they don't really care about the food, presentation and the things I most care about, that's an indication to me that we may not be a good fit.

You may have a different criteria. Whatever it is, you'll have to base you interview questions on that, so know what's important to you.

The beauty of personal cheffing is that it's exactly what the title denotes... It's 'personal'. You're going to want a chef who fits into your value system and lifestyle, this way you're on the same page, are going towards the same goals and are interested in a win-win relationship.

Here's a quick suggestion, before you go looking for a personal chef, take a moment to map out what works for you. Write down what your likes and dislikes are, the flavors you want on your menu, your desired end results and how you want the arrangement to work. Then find a personal chef who will meet those requirements.

If you follow these simple steps, you're sure to find the chef that works for you.

As always, it's been my pleasure sharing with you. Until next time...