Tailored Culinary Experiences for Those Who Value Excellence
Every moment you gather—whether for celebration, reconnection, or retreat—deserves cuisine that feels intentional, refined, and crafted with purpose. Experience Occasions By M was created to deliver far more than a meal. We curate immersive dining experiences that honor your story, elevate your occasion, and redefine what chef-led hospitality can be.
CHEF MICHAEL MCCRAY
A Chef Built on Craft, Culture, and Service
For over 25 years, Chef Michael McCray has stood at the intersection of Southern heritage, global technique, and elevated hospitality. His journey spans professional kitchens, destination retreats, luxury private dining, culinary tours, and deeply personal moments shared at tables across North Carolina and beyond.
Chef Mike’s signature style blends:
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Southern roots and soulful flavors
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European and Asian influences
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Farm-to-table respect for NC growers
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Luxury-level service and precision
His philosophy is simple:
Service first. Excellence always.
This approach has made Chef Mike a trusted partner for families, executives, Airbnb hosts, wellness practitioners, senior living communities, and travelers seeking authentic, chef-led experiences.
Let’s Create Your Tailored Culinary Experience
Step into luxury dining designed around your moment, your people, and your vision.
Hospitality That Honors Your Moment
Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a weekend getaway, a family celebration, or a multi-day culinary retreat, we bring:
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Professionalism
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Warmth
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Transparency
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Elevated presentation
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Authentic connection
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Exceptional flavor
Your experience is never transactional—
it’s personal, curated, and unforgettable.
Meet the Team
Our Culinary Experts
Lindsey
Executive Assistant & Skilled Mixologist
Lindsey Yancey brings a rare blend of precision, warmth, and artistry to the Occasions By M experience. As Executive Assistant and Skilled Mixologist, she ensures every detail—from guest communication to cocktail execution—is handled with grace, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Her refined palate, intuitive hospitality, and creative approach to beverage design elevate each event, offering guests thoughtfully crafted cocktails that complement Chef Michael’s culinary vision. Lindsey’s ability to anticipate needs, manage logistics, and create a seamless flow behind the scenes makes her an essential part of what transforms every occasion into a polished, unforgettable experience.
Chef Duke
As one of our traveling personal chefs, Chef Duke brings unmatched execution and logistical mastery to every retreat. His focus, discipline, and precision ensure that our culinary experiences are delivered with smooth flow, elevated service, and unwavering attention to detail.
Chef Cory
Chef Cory is the chef who always shows up right on time — personable, reliable, and effortlessly skilled. His warm presence and attentive execution make him a guest favorite and an essential part of our traveling culinary team.
Crafting Culinary Moments That Feel Personal
Experience Occasions By M is built on relationships.
Every menu, every retreat, every brunch and dinner is designed around the people at the table.
We take the time to understand:
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Your vision
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Your story
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Your comfort foods and your requests
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Your mood, your atmosphere, your moment
From intimate anniversaries to multi-day retreats and chef-led culinary tours, we transform your ideas into curated flavors and unforgettable hospitality.
This is dining without rush.
Dining without compromise.
Dining rooted in connection.
Rooted Locally. Inspired Globally. Trusted Everywhere.
From Raleigh–Durham and Chapel Hill to the Carolina coast and mountains, Chef Mike brings world-class cuisine to homes, Airbnb spaces, retreats, and intimate venues.
He partners with:
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NC growers & farmers
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Local distilleries
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Artisans & bakers
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Retreat facilitators
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Wellness & corporate teams
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Airbnb luxury hosts
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Non-profits & senior living communities
This network strengthens every dish, every menu, and every experience curated under the Occasions By M brand.