Meet Ms. Maybell
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For 24 years, Maybell Williams has been “behind the scenes” at Hamby Catering & Events, orchestrating food details and kitchen operations while supervising a culinary crew of both regular and seasonal staff. As Hamby’s Kitchen Supervisor Ms. Maybell brings culinary expertise, leadership, and an amazing level of energy to this bustling family-owned business.
Hired initially as a baker, Ms. Maybell’s skill and enthusiasm was quickly recognized by Frances Hamby who promoted her to management after her first month on the job. When asked about her specific responsibilities, several members of her team laughed and remarked “what doesn’t she do?” From organizing and expediting event menu needs, testing new menu items, making sandwich mixtures, baked items and more, Miss Maybell is a recipe for Hamby success: equal parts speed, strength and compassion mixed with smiles, competence and appreciation for family.
“I am so happy working here. Mrs. Hamby (Fran) is not only our matriarch, but she’s my mentor and friend. I’ve learned so much; she’s been a jewel to me.” Ms. Maybell describes (Co-Owner) Steve Hamby “like a brother”, and is considered an adopted mother by her kitchen employees.
Originally from Johns Island, Maybell is a culinary arts graduate from Johnson and Wales University. She resides west of the Ashley in Charleston, S.C. with her husband of 32 years. When not in the Hamby Catering kitchen, Ms. Maybell will likely be found in her home garden; composting and harvesting everything from eggplants and okra, to sweet potatoes and collard greens.
Here are some of Ms. Maybell’s Hamby Catering favorites:
Crab Cakes (all meat with little to no filler)
Ham Biscuits and Chicken Salad Sandwiches
Maybell’s Collard Greens (see recipe in Hamby’s Catering To Charleston cookbook)
