Food, restaurants and taking care of people have always been a passion of mine. Since I was 16 I have always had a job in the food and drink industry. Whether I was hosting, serving, bartending or driving around on the golf cart, I’ve always enjoyed the busy atmosphere.

Natasha Bordier, our banquet and . taking care of a guest, serving meals or simply filling the water jugs, it is definitely a comfort zone of mine.

Today, I was more than happy to ask Natasha a few questions. She’s incredibly hard-working and genuine.. not to mention, I love the way she says my name with her accent (she is from France).

I began with my usual question,

-Where are you born and where did you grow up?

I was born in Dijon and spent all my life in France. I moved to Ottawa three years ago.

-What got you started in the food and beverage industry?

My parents had a company that sold wine to restaurant, and that’s where it started!

-How did you come to work at The Lord Elgin Hotel?

The company that I am working with (Sodexo) offered me a position here.

-What makes your banquet team so awesome?

We are awesome because we all make an effort to work together as a team. Our banquet team is a family!

-What do you believe makes a good banquet server?

A team player, hard-worker, and consumer oriented. You must always have the guest in mind.

-Have you ever lost your cool in a busy situation?

There are times when I get mad and need to go for a walk. I need to take the time to be alone and cool down. I am very passionate so when things get crazy, I do everything I can to not take it out on others.

-What is your favourite way to spend a day off work?

Reading, I love reading.

-How many hours do you sleep at night?

5 hours.

-Who do you admire most in the world?

The most in the world, wow, so many different people come to mind. I really love the first women President in Argentina, Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner. Also, any person with drive such as Ghandi or Nelson Mandela.

-If you could describe yourself in one word what would it be?

Passionate.

-Do you cook? If so what is your specialty?

Yes I cook! I think chocolate cake is my specialty. I always love to make one when it is my friend’s birthday. I like to be creative every time and add something new and different to every batch.

-Name three places you have never been but would love to visit?

I would love to go to New Zealand, South Africa, and probably Argentina. I would love to hear the women I find incredible speak, Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner.

-If you could have any super power, what would it be?

Did you ever watch the television series Charmed? One of the witches could be at two places at one time. I would love that.

-Any other comments you would like to express?

I love working with banquets. It very personalized, you don’t have step-by-step rules to follow. People like that we are approachable and friendly. I’m very lucky to have the team I have.