Chefanie
Episode 17 Chefanie
In Episode 17 of Weddings-ish with Jove, Jove Meyer sits down with Stephanie Nass of Chefanie to explore her inspiring journey as an author, chef, designer, and tastemaker. Jove first discovered Stephanie through a feature in Vogue, where a stunning 28-foot cake centerpiece at a wedding caught his eye, igniting his admiration for her creativity and talent. The conversation dives into Stephanie's life, starting from her upbringing in Westchester, New York, and her early interest in art and culinary arts.
Stephanie reflects on her college days at Columbia University, where she studied art history while working in restaurants and bakeries across New York City. Unlike most college students, she balanced academic life with hands-on experience in the culinary world, describing how living in New York allowed her to work real adult jobs. It was during a homestay program in Brittany, France, at the age of 16, where she first realized her passion for cooking. There, she learned to create classic French dishes under the guidance of Madame Polico, an experience that shaped her future path.
“When you’re driven by passion you don’t get tired.”
Stephanie on her passion for what she does
After graduating, Stephanie became a financial analyst in California but continued to pursue her love for cooking. She catered events throughout her 20s, with a particular focus on pastry. By the time she graduated from the Institute of Culinary Education (ICE) in Soho, she had already built a full-fledged business, creating intricate patterned pastries that became her signature style. Her career took off as she worked with high-profile brands and fashion events, solidifying her reputation in the food industry.
When COVID-19 hit, Stephanie pivoted her focus toward designing tableware and home goods. She also authored a cookbook and began offering cooking classes for the homeless, expanding her impact on the culinary community. Her advice for anyone in the food industry is to explore the many diverse paths it offers, whether in media, catering, or restaurants. Above all, she emphasizes the importance of consistently producing great work and following one's passion.
The couple met in July 2023 at a party that almost didn’t happen for Stephanie. After attending a high-profile event earlier that evening, she was hesitant to head to another gathering, but deciding to go changed the course of her life. Stephanie reflects on how vital it is to put yourself out into the world, as you never know what might unfold. The moment she met David, she felt an instant connection, though she doesn’t remember their first words. She recalls feeling a wave of certainty, describing his energy as protective, warm, and brilliant.
Having been engaged before, Stephanie had spent the previous 11 months single and enjoying the freedom that came with it. She had resolved not to enter another relationship unless it felt truly special. Her mantra was that "1 + 1 = 3 when it’s the right person," meaning that with the right partner, the connection becomes more than just the sum of two people. With David, their conversations flowed effortlessly, and she quickly knew they were best friends in the making.
Two days after their first meeting, David left for Montana, but they made plans to see each other the following weekend, which also happened to involve many of David’s family members. Their first real date, however, was a 12-hour marathon, filled with museum visits, meals, and endless conversation. David brought Stephanie hydrangeas on their first date, a gesture that became a meaningful motif in their wedding. Eight months later, he asked for her father’s permission before proposing. They worked together to design their rings, and by April, they were engaged. In just 10 weeks, they planned and executed their dream wedding, opting not to wait and seizing the first available opportunity to marry at her parents’ house.
Photography by: Twah Dougherty
Their wedding was an intimate, multi-day celebration. After obtaining their marriage license downtown at City Hall, they hosted a welcome dinner at Maison Barnes. Given her deep love for design and fashion, planning these events was a dream for Stephanie. Despite the short timeline, she managed to pull together stunning outfits, often vintage or off the rack.
Photography by: Twah Dougherty
During the conversation, Stephanie and Jove also touched on their dining preferences. Stephanie describes herself as either a hard yes or hard no when it comes to her assessment of dining experiences. She shares her love for the perfect burger and fries, while her husband is less patient with long, multi-course meals. For her, a long meal is an intellectual experience, where every detail matters—from the tableware to the microgreens.
The two also discussed the evolution of fine dining, with Jove remarking how many Michelin-star restaurants have begun to feel too similar. Stephanie brought up Chef Daniel Humm of Eleven Madison Park as an example of someone trying to break the mold, as he famously switched to an all-vegan menu and faced considerable backlash. It’s challenging to push boundaries, especially when aesthetic and culinary innovation often come with a hefty price tag.
The welcome dinner for their wedding was a reflection of Stephanie’s love for both style and sentiment. She worked closely with floral designer Zeek Westerman, with whom she shared an almost telepathic connection. Together, they created a sexy, warm vibe, incorporating bleached amaranthus to mimic melted wax and handwritten, embroidered name tags for their small group of 10-12 guests.
Photography by: Twah Dougherty
The wedding itself was a beautifully designed celebration, reflecting Stephanie’s love for design and fashion. She incorporated vintage finds, handmade cakes, and a thoughtful color palette inspired by her artistic influences. One of the most striking elements was the 28-foot cake she created with help of her team as a centerpiece for the evening. Stephanie speaks about how the wedding with her family, though meticulously planned, was also deeply personal and meaningful, with every detail rooted in love and intention. The intricate details of Stephanie Nass's wedding, where her creativity truly shined. One of the standout features was the four wedding cakes, each thoughtfully crafted with personal significance. Stephanie fully baked the hydrangea bun cake herself, a nod to her and David’s first date and their summer love, which was a recurring motif throughout the celebration. The cake, made from her beloved chocolate cake recipe, was adorned with buttercream petals instead of fondant, symbolizing the handmade touch she wanted to offer her family and loved ones.
The centerpiece, however, was a remarkable 28-foot cake that, due to its size, couldn't be baked at home. Stephanie and her team created it offsite at Flower Power and later assembled it at the venue. Between the four cakes and an elaborate dessert table, which included a Viennese donut tower (a shared love between David and Jove), guests certainly left with a sugar high. Stephanie and David both adore California's donuts, and the inclusion of donuts was a sweet, playful addition to the wedding festivities.
Photography by: Twah Dougherty
Stephanie worked tirelessly up until the last moment, even preparing a detailed deck and shot list for the wedding day. Once she had her hair and makeup done, she made a conscious effort to switch off and be fully present. For Stephanie, the substance of the vows and toasts far outweighed the details, ensuring she was emotionally present for every single moment.
The wedding also reflected Stephanie’s design aesthetic. She and her team at Chefaanie created their own tablecloths, patterns, and napkins, which were produced and rushed to meet the tight timeline. Her words, “When there is a will, there is a way,” truly came to life in the execution of their event. After the welcome dinner, she spent at her childhood home, Stephanie made a few final touches to ensure everything was perfect for the big day.
Photography by: Twah Daugherty
David, who wanted to be part of the action, spent the wedding morning with Stephanie and everyone at the house. Their religious ceremony took place in the backyard, and at 2 pm, they signed the ketubah. Everything moved quickly from there, as they celebrated their love in an intimate setting with close family and friends. While they initially considered hosting a large party in the fall, they ultimately decided against it, opting instead for a big summer party in the Hamptons.
Photography by: Twah Daugherty
While the wedding itself was small, with just family present, they have plans for a delayed honeymoon. Reflecting on their journey, Stephanie never imagined she would find a love as deep as what she shares with David. She believes that you don’t need to seek love actively, but you do have to put yourself out there. “If you stay at home, no one will know how great you are,” she muses.
The conversation also touches on Stephanie’s book, which is a collection of recipes and ideas for hosting. Jove praises the way she matches everything—“matchamalism” as she calls it—and how approachable the book is. The first chapter focuses on the principles of hosting, breaking down 16 different party ideas, each featuring a variety of flower techniques, illustrations, and styles. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of making guests feel special, even something as simple as writing their names on lemons as a personal touch.
Her book, available on Chefanie.com and everywhere books are sold offers practical steps and creative inspiration, ensuring that even those new to hosting can follow along easily. With her signature mix of style and substance, Stephanie reminds creatives to build each other up, encouraging others to lean into their own unique styles while hosting and designing events.
For the last segment of the podcast Sloan joins Jove for “Ask Jove” where she asks Jove tips for being an introvert and having a wedding.
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