Lisa Mattiello started her business as a corner luncheonette in 1997.  It was the beginning of a lifelong ambition to own and operate a business.  From that humble beginning, Lisa opened a catering business that became very successful.  With growth the company’s name changed from Pranzi Catering to Pranzi Catering and Events.  Within five years the business developed into one of the premier catering and event planning firms in Southern New England.

 In 2013, the company, together with its team of 45  fulltime and more than 100 part time employees, hosted over 85 weddings and 3,700 corporate and social events.

 Mattiello studied culinary arts at Johnson & Wales University.  Prior to opening her business she managed an Emack & Bolio’s franchise for several years before managing the former Savories in Newport. Lisa then opened her business with the mission of always delivering personalized service.  As she enters her 17th year as a business owner, Mattiello’s expertise in creating memorable events and her extraordinary eye for creative detail has earned her numerous awards and recognition within the hospitality industry.

 Over the years Lisa used SBA-guaranteed loans from Freedom National Bank and Citizens Bank to help grow her business.

 This year Lisa took another giant step in the growth of her business by relocating to larger space in the Silver Lake section of Providence and changing the company name to Pranzi Catering and Events.  The building provides 12,000 additional square feet of space than the old location on Chalkstone Avenue. The new location is in proximity to major highways, making it conveniently accessible to both new and current clients.

 Although weddings are in the forefront of Pranzi’s business, Lisa and her team of event and culinary professionals continue to execute corporate affairs, elegant weddings and other milestones. The new facility provides space for consultation offices and tasting suites.  Clients now have access to Lisa’s redesigned showroom where they are surrounded by a vast array of linens, centerpieces, fresh floral arrangements, and creative décor.  Couples find comfort and relief as they dine on a mock table scape of their soon to be wedding day during a complimentary and private tasting.

 Lisa uses a number of “best practices” that have helped her grow the business.  For example, Lisa purchases the products her clients request instead of renting them from a third party vendor.  By providing clients direct access to her warehouse and catalogue, a bond of trust and appreciation is established that puts clients at ease.  Lisa stores her personal cell phone number on clients’ cell phones so they can reach her 24/7.  Even after a couple says “I do,” Lisa is frequently called on again to provide custom cakes for their anniversaries and event coordination for baby showers.

 Mattiello finds her philanthropic work the most rewarding.  She serves as a community partner to Child & Family, giving back to the community that has greatly contributed to her accomplishments. 

 As a certified green caterer, Pranzi Catering & Events upholds the standards of this progressive movement and donates its excess food and products to local nondenominational churches throughout the greater Providence area.

 For her demonstrated success and growth potential, the U.S. Small Business Administration is pleased to honor Lisa Mattiello, owner of Pranzi Catering and Events in Providence, as the 2014 Rhode Island Small Business Person of the Year.