MEET THE team
Behind every exceptional dining experience is our small but mighty team. With decades of combined experience, our passionate leaders bring their unique talents and shared commitment to local, seasonal cuisine to every event we cater. From menu development to flawless execution, these are the dedicated individuals who make Shale Hill Events the Hudson Valley's premier farm-to-table catering company.
Dallas Gilpin
Founder & Culinary Director
Dallas transformed her passion for hospitality into Shale Hill Events after purchasing The Dutch in Saugerties in 2018. Following a successful Wall Street career, she built a thriving hospitality group rooted in the Hudson Valley community. Dallas's vision combines business expertise with genuine love for creating memorable dining experiences. Her commitment to local partnerships and seasonal ingredients ensures each event reflects both exceptional cuisine and warm, attentive hospitality.
Brianne Whalen
Events Director
Brianne brings over two decades of event expertise to Shale Hill Events, beginning her catering career at just 15 years old. A Saugerties native with deep Hudson Valley roots, she oversees all event details with precision and warmth. Her extensive background in the events industry ensures seamless execution from initial consultation to final service. Guided by her belief that "You have to live, breathe, and love what you do," Brianne creates personalized catering experiences that perfectly reflect each client's vision while showcasing Shale Hill's exceptional farm-to-table cuisine.
Franc Genao
COO
Franc brings decades of hospitality experience to Shale Hill Events, beginning his career in his family's Brooklyn restaurant at age 15. He oversees our catering service team with a natural talent for recognizing potential and developing exceptional staff. Franc ensures every wedding, corporate event, and celebration receives impeccable service through his detailed training programs and commitment to excellence. His expertise in front-of-house operations ensures seamless execution at events throughout the Hudson Valley, where his team anticipates guests' needs while delivering the warm, professional service that defines the Shale Hill Events experience.
Join our team
We're always looking for exceptional talent to join the Shale Hill Events family. If you're passionate about hospitality, local food, and creating memorable experiences for guests, we'd love to hear from you. Our team members share a commitment to quality, creativity, and outstanding service. Whether you're an experienced culinary professional or just beginning your hospitality journey, please reach out to explore current opportunities.