Rita Blackwell is the President and Co-Founder of Wine Express which creates intimate in-home wine tastings, corporate events and partners with local charities and organizations to help raise funds.  From a young age Rita had a knack for great food and wine and has developed a reputation for having “the right stuff” when it comes to entertaining. It was only natural that she would develop a passion for wine. After earning her Certification for Wine Studies from the French Culinary Institute in New York City where she studied under the world renowned Andrea Immer-Robinson, master sommelier and dean of wine studies, Rita was thoroughly convinced that wine tasting should be presented in a way that is fun, accessible and less intimidating. For Rita, wine is as multidimensional as food, and evokes a spirit in people that is undeniable. Her mission is to bring a fresh, modern, non-typical pretense to the world of wine.

Jerry Edwards, CPCE is owner and Corporate Chef of Chef’s Expressions Catering and Consulting, Elements by Chef’s Expressions. Besides having built one of the most successful Catering companies in his region, Jerry has traveled the world, training and assisting Caterers, Chefs and Event Planners to animate their guest’s culinary experience. He has won over 30 industry competitions including three ACF Gold Medals and the prestigious “Best Chef” for the Meals on Wheels Culinary Extravaganza. His recipes and accomplishments have been seen in numerous Magazines, local print, and local television. He is very active in many charities for children’s issues and adult diseases. He has raised funds for them and donates food, labor and his own time to numerous charities. He is an active member of numerous food and civic organizations. Jerry is currently working on his first book entitled “Entertaining for the Seasons” a book on seasonal cooking and wine pairing.