About The Chef
Chef Michael McCray
Personal Chef | Caterer | Published Author
With over 25 years in the culinary industry, Chef Michael McCray blends Southern comfort with global flair to create meaningful dining experiences. As founder of Occasions By M Personal Chef & Catering, he specializes in private dining, gourmet meal prep, and retreat-style events.
Chef Mike has served clients across 15 states, cooked for the U.S. Open, styled dishes for O Magazine, and trained under renowned chefs and catering houses. Whether crafting a fine dining event or weekly meal prep, his passion and precision remain constant.
Chef Mike’s mission is to create lasting memories through food that tells a story—one plate at a time.
Chef Michael is passionate about helping other chefs elevate their craft through hands-on training, travel, and collaborative menu development. He’s committed to not only building a strong, talented team—but empowering each member to stand firmly on their own foundation, honoring their unique backgrounds while carving out their own culinary lane.
SHARING IS CARING
For Chef Michael McCray, food is a tool for connection and change. As his career evolved, so did his passion for mentoring chefs—offering hands-on training, travel opportunities, and creative space to help them build their own unique culinary paths. He believes in nurturing talent while encouraging individuality, ensuring every team member stands strong on their own foundation.
Chef Mike also extends his mission beyond the kitchen. Through his involvement with the local women’s center and area non-profits, he aims to offer more support to underserved communities—providing nourishment, education, and opportunity. For him, sharing is more than a value—it’s a responsibility.
CONTACT ME
If you would like to contribute some content or just want to say hi, please email me at [your email here]
COLLABORATIONS
At Occasions By M, collaboration is at the heart of what we do. Chef Michael McCray has partnered with creatives, entrepreneurs, wellness leaders, and event professionals to craft unforgettable culinary experiences—from luxury retreats and branded pop-ups to curated dinner parties and lifestyle activations. Each partnership is approached with intention, excellence, and a commitment to elevating the experience for every guest.
Chef Mike is always open to working with aligned brands, chefs, venues, and organizations that share a passion for quality, culture, and community. Whether you're looking to co-host a dining series, launch a new product with curated bites, or bring a personal chef into your wellness retreat, we’d love to build something beautiful together—rooted in flavor and fueled by purpose.
YOU'RE IN GOOD HANDS
At Occasions By M, your trust is just as important as your taste experience. We value your privacy and are committed to protecting your personal information. Rest easy knowing that we do not share your data with anyone, under any circumstances.
Want to learn more?
Read our full Privacy Policy here
Embrace Flavor. Elevate Moments. Excel in Life.
Your source for inspired dining, family wellness, and intentional living.
Occasions By M – Personal Chef & Catering Services
Serving Raleigh-Durham & Surrounding Areas
www.occasionsbym.com/book
📍 Location: Based in Raleigh, NC | Travel Available
“Curated Chef Experiences, Crafted for You.”
Created By Occasions By
M
Your Privacy Matters
At Occasions By M, your trust is just as important as your taste experience. We value your privacy and are committed to protecting your personal information. Rest easy knowing that we do not share your data with anyone, under any circumstances.
Want to learn more? [Read our full Privacy Policy here.]