THE CLASSIC CATERING PEOPLE

The Classic Catering People has operated as a memory-making enterprise for over five decades, combining culinary arts with event management. The company’s chefs deliver inspired dishes with worldly sensibility, while building genuine client relationships described as “deep care” evident in every aspect of service.

As a locally owned, certified Women’s Business Enterprise, Classic has brought people together through memorable cuisine for over 40 years. The team actively serves the community, partnering annually with educational, environmental, arts and health organizations throughout Maryland and D.C. The company’s leaders serve as fundraisers, volunteers, donors and board members.

Owner and Chief Inspiration Officer Harriet Dopkin has cooked since age eight, studied culinary arts in the United States and Japan after earning a Classics degree from St. Johns. She enjoys introducing new flavors and techniques to Classic’s kitchen while gardening with heirloom vegetables.

President and CEO Christopher Meaker, influenced by his mother’s and grandmother’s Polish recipes, focuses on event planning from initial listening through execution.

Partner Larry Frank brings restaurant experience dating to 1977 at Ocean City’s Carousel Hotel, specializing in logistics and off-premise catering.

Executive Vice President of Operations Ronnie Ching, a Baltimore native, began as prep cook at Pimlico Hotel, became executive chef at Classic for nearly three decades, briefly departed, then returned as operations leader for seven years before assuming his current role supporting the CEO and entire team.

The company employs Account Executives managing hundreds of annual events, behind-the-scenes teams handling accounting and marketing, and culinary masters serving thousands of tables across Maryland, Virginia, D.C. and beyond.

This profile is part of The Daily Record's In the Lead: Best Women-Owned Businesses in Maryland list for 2025. Information used in this profile was sourced from the honoree. See the full list at thedailyrecord.com.