DAVID DICKENSAUGE, JR. With a resume teeming with culinary accolades, David Dickensauge, Jr., Executive Chef and Operational Partner of ROUX, brings his exploding hometown flavor to Montgomery. The Louisiana native first developed his deep love for the art of true New Orleans Cajun cuisine at 16 while working under the tutelage of Chef Jamie Shannon at Commander’s Palace. Dedicated to achieving a true understanding of his vocation, David then went on to graduate from the Culinary Institute of New Orleans and the University of Alabama with a degree in hotel and restaurant management. He then journeyed across the country, soaking up knowledge across many different restaurant styles and cultures, including Walt Disney World, Biloxi casinos, the University of Alabama and even worked unpaid for six months at the only five-star restaurant in Chicago. “Leaving my family behind was tough… but I needed to travel in order to learn different approaches to the culinary world.” Today, the proud father of 3-year-old Jacob is thrilled with the opportunity to give his customers a taste of New Orleans at ROUX, and there is never a second that passes when he doesn’t truly love what he does.
KATHERINE TRANTHAM Sophisticated from her design down to her dress, Interior Designer Katherine Trantham is quickly making a name for herself. Although she graduated from The University of Alabama only four years ago, the Florida native already owns her own business, Katherine Rebecca Interior Styles, in tandem with managing custom design projects with Gardner Carpet One. Upon graduation, the young designer made the bold decision to move to an unfamiliar city, where she worked under designer Phillip Sides, whom she credits with having a significant impact on her professional success, for three years before branching out to create her own brand. Katherine’s love of travel has proved fruitful in her career, as she finds inspiration in different cultures and styles. “Being exposed to cultures, environments and experiences outside my daily routine offers a complete recharge of design inspiration for me,” she notes.Although, she acknowledges Montgomery definitely isn’t lacking in talented tradesmen and local artists that help keep her clients dreaming big.“There are so many national and regional gems here amongst small town charm.” An absolute people person, Katherine thrives on being outside, whether it is sightseeing in a different city or merely enjoying outdoor happy hour with friends. Visit www.krinteriorstyles.com to see her work.
MICHAEL SERDULA Michael Serdula, Executive Chef for The Olive Room, is an inspiring example of self-taught success. Formerly the Sous Chef for Amsterdam Café in Auburn and the Executive Sous Chef for SaZa’s Serious Italian Food, Michael began his culinary career as a salad cook before discovering his full potential. In addition to delighting customers with his passed-down family recipes and contemporary food creations, Michael is actively involved in benefiting the community through participation in charity events such as The Blackout Cancer Event and 86 Hunger. With his strong passion for advocating the continued growth of the city, Michael is an ardent supporter of outsourcing from local companies including Destin Connection and the Hampstead Farms. “I am trying my best to contribute to that end goal of being the best culinary city in Alabama.” The soon-to-be husband attributes his success to the unwavering support and guidance from his family, who instilled in him the importance of “not getting complacent with being just good enough.” 52
RSVP NOV/DEC 2011