Today we’d like to introduce you to Colton Carson.
Hi Colton, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
When I was in high school, I discovered the YouTube channel Epic Meal Time, and it completely changed the way I saw cooking. They made cooking food look fun! After that, I began pursuing a career in the culinary world.
I went on to study at the University of Missouri–Columbia (Mizzou), where I earned my degree in Hospitality Management with an emphasis in Food and Beverage in 2015. After graduating, I began my career at a local restaurant in Lee’s Summit before moving into corporate dining.
In 2023, I decided to take the leap and start my own catering business, Carson Culinary, where I catered for small gatherings and private events. My love for all things nerdy naturally blended with my passion for food, which inspired me to create the Culinerdy: Classy Comfort Food trailer.
It’s really become a family business. My wife and mom manage the front of the house, while my dad works alongside me in the back, and my brother even designed our logo. It’s been a fun and rewarding experience for all of us.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The biggest challenge I’ve had to overcome is the tough nature of working in the kitchen. In many cooking jobs, people aren’t always treated well, and the pay can be low. It’s a demanding environment. What kept me going—and ultimately helped me succeed—was focusing on my genuine love for food.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I want people to know they can enjoy delicious, high-quality food without needing to dress up or book a reservation. I’m proud of how much we make from scratch — it’s a big part of what makes us Culinerdy! We pay close attention to our ingredients and love elevating classic dishes by creating bold new combinations, giving people the most flavorful versions of their favorite foods. Variety truly is the spice of life.
While most catering companies focus on large events of 150 guests or more — like weddings — we specialize in mid-sized gatherings that happen more often. From birthday parties and bridal or baby showers to wedding anniversaries, football watch parties, and other celebrations, we bring the same attention to flavor and quality no matter the size of the event.
Whether you’re booking a catering event through Carson Culinary or visiting our food trailer, Culinerdy, this is truly my dream come to life — a chance to share what I love most with our community. So come say hi to my family and me, and taste what makes us Culinerdy!
Any big plans?
I’m really looking forward to meeting new people, building connections, and creating unique, exciting menu items that bring joy to our customers. Looking ahead, my dream is to expand the Culinerdy food trailer into a full-fledged restaurant – a place where we can continue engaging with the community and sharing great food.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.carsonculinary.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carsonculinary/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carsonculinary?mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=6gNnBR5v8TTthVA2#
Image Credits
Samantha Brunick – Headshot and Food Pictures
Priceless Memories Photography by Amber Brown – Family Photos
