A note from Pauline – Retirement letter
There are moments in life when you just know the time is right—it feels right. Right?!
I’ve never been the sort of person to meticulously plan every step of my life, personally or professionally. Instead, I’ve always lived in the moment, letting life take its course. It might not work for everyone, but as the record shows, it’s worked for me.
And now, here I am, having one of those moments where I realize it’s time to move on from the responsibility of leading Good Gracious! Events. It’s time to let the next generation work their magic, bringing fresh talent and energy to elevate Good Gracious! to new heights of success.
Why now?
Well, despite being fabulously healthy and still incredibly passionate about the business, there came a moment—nearly a year ago—when I felt this overwhelming urge that it was time. Dare I say it… to retire! I suppose it’s not such a shock, considering I’m in the “retirement age range,” but for me, it was a profound realization.
Of course, there are several reasons why this feels like the perfect time:
First, oh my—I’ve been in this role for nearly 45 years! Forty-five!
Second, we’ve achieved something truly special: building strong, genuine relationships with our clients and creative partners.
Third, from the very beginning, we said we didn’t want to be the biggest company—just the best. And I’m proud to say we’ve done just that. Today, we’re recognized as one of the top five food, beverage, and hospitality companies in Los Angeles, if not California, for both large and small live events.
Fourth, the team is strong, talented, and creative. Both front and back of house are filled with energy and drive. I LOVE that!
And lastly, my daughter Joanne Purnell. For nearly 30 years, Joanne’s extraordinary talent and hard work have been the driving force behind our culinary reputation—delicious menus, stunning presentations, and a commitment to excellence.
Joanne stepped away from the kitchen to take on the role of President just over three years ago. Since then, she’s been strengthening client relationships and mastering the logistical details of the front-of-house operations. Over the past three years, we’ve worked side by side to prepare her for this day. She has earned the respect of her colleagues and clients alike, and now, with a fabulous team supporting her, she’s ready to lead Good Gracious! into its next chapter with brilliance.
So, it’s time. With a huge dollop of pride, I’m ready to pass the baton to Joanne and the GREAT team. They’ll continue creating amazing food, having fun, and loving every moment of what they do. The future is now in their hands, and I can say with confidence—they’re going to do this FABULOUSLY FABULOUS!
What’s next for me?
Well, I won’t be completely out of the picture. I’ll still be CEO “on the sidelines” as the team adjusts to life without Pauline “being around.”
For those who read my book My Culinary Love Story, you’ll know it ended over 40 years ago. I’ve been asked so many times, “What happened next?” So, I’ve been encouraged to continue sharing my story—how I built Good Gracious! intertwined work with life, raised children, and shared a beautiful journey with Dennis. My next book has a working title: That’s How You See It, Uh?! Should be interesting, right?
And that’s not all—we’re hopeful to open a flagship store in Los Angeles: GEORGE, a savory pie company also featuring signature sweet shortbread and biscuits, along with an online food product presence. FUN!!!!
And yes, I plan to do all of this surrounded by family and grandchildren, with more time to cherish and love them. Maybe I’ll even travel a bit, read books that have nothing to do with the industry, and take time to simply breathe in life at my own pace.
So, with a VERY heartfelt THANK YOU and LOVE, I want to thank you all for allowing me and Good Gracious! to be part of your events and celebrations over the years. These moments have become OUR memories, and they will last FOREVER. And now the next generation is ready to create our next wave of memories.
As always, with LOVE,
Pauline.
