Business Spotlight: The Story of Busy Butternut

Naperville is home to a vibrant and diverse community of local businesses, each with its unique story and offerings. One standout is Busy Butternut, a catering company founded by Cindy Hyatt. This blog delves into the inspiration behind Busy Butternut, what sets it apart, and the passion that fuels its success, illustrating the spirit of Naperville local businesses.

The Inspiration Behind Busy Butternut

Cindy Hyatt's journey to creating Busy Butternut is rooted in her experiences growing up in Naperville. Back in the 1980s, the food scene was quite limited. With a background in a typical all-American, meat-and-potatoes family, Cindy recalls how her meals often consisted of simple items like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, with little spice or variety.

Her upbringing in a family of four, with two working parents, led to a fend-for-yourself approach to meals. This environment fostered her appreciation for home-cooked meals, especially those that were made from scratch. Cindy's grandparents, who also hailed from Naperville, played a significant role in shaping her culinary views. They emphasized seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, which is a principle she carries into her catering business today.

What Sets Busy Butternut Apart?

When it comes to catering, many envision large chafing dishes filled with pasta and other typical offerings. However, Busy Butternut breaks this mold by focusing on small, bite-sized appetizers. Cindy's idea stemmed from her experiences at various events where she found it cumbersome to juggle a glass of wine while serving herself.

She recognized a gap in the market for a catering company that specializes in appetizers and finger foods, leading to the creation of her first catering company, Entertaining Forkless. Although the name didn’t resonate well, it laid the groundwork for what would become Busy Butternut.

Cindy's love for alliteration and her fondness for butternut squash inspired the name. Drawing it out on a napkin at a Mexican restaurant, she combined her busy lifestyle with the charm of her favorite squash, thus giving birth to Busy Butternut.

Creating Memorable Menus

At Busy Butternut, menus are more than just a list of food items; they are crafted experiences. Cindy emphasizes the importance of themes in all their events, whether it’s a baby shower, wedding shower, or birthday celebration. By incorporating the client’s theme into every aspect of the event—from florals and decor to the table settings—Busy Butternut aims to create a personalized experience that leaves guests feeling delighted.

For example, during a grand opening event for The Dan Firks Team launching Naperville.com and their new Coldwell Banker office downtown, she created a stunning display using letters that spelled out "Naperville," with each letter filled with a unique menu item. The presentation wowed guests and highlighted Cindy's commitment to excellence.

Memorable Events and Heartwarming Moments

Over the years, Busy Butternut has been a part of countless memorable events. From graduation parties to celebrations of life, Cindy cherishes the trust clients place in her during significant moments in their lives. She draws parallels between her work in catering and the real estate industry, noting that both involve sharing in the joys and challenges of life's milestones.

Each event brings unique stories and emotions, and Cindy feels blessed to be part of such important moments. The joy of creating a beautiful experience for clients and their guests is what keeps her passionate about her work.

Community and Connection

Busy Butternut is more than just a catering service; it embodies the spirit of Naperville local businesses. By focusing on quality, creativity, and a personal touch, Cindy has built a reputation that resonates with the community. Her commitment to using fresh, seasonal ingredients and providing exceptional service reflects the values of local businesses in Naperville.

Moreover, Cindy’s story illustrates the importance of local businesses in fostering community connections. Each event catered by Busy Butternut helps bring people together, creating lasting memories and strengthening community bonds.

Conclusion

As we explore the vibrant landscape of Naperville local businesses, Busy Butternut stands out as a testament to passion, creativity, and community spirit. Cindy Hyatt's journey from a simple childhood in Naperville to becoming a successful caterer showcases the potential of local entrepreneurs to make a significant impact. By supporting businesses like Busy Butternut, we not only enjoy delicious food but also contribute to the rich tapestry of our community.

For anyone looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy exceptional catering, Busy Butternut is a fantastic choice that embodies the best of Naperville.

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