Who We Are

Some people spend a lifetime chasing their passion, for others their life's passion takes a while to find them. Linda Neiman began her professional career far from the world of catering, applying her advanced degrees in computer science and education to design and code early educational computer games. In 1986 she moved from the world of high tech to a second career as a stay-at-home mom, focusing her full time and energy on raising a family of four boys. During that time Linda developed extensive self-taught culinary skills, and the seeds of a new passion steadily grew. In 2003, after a 17 year hiatus from the business world Linda chose to return with the launch of her third career, introducing the world to Zelda (her true middle name). Under Linda's dynamic leadership Zelda's Catering has exploded onto the catering scene with purpose and vision, becoming one of the Midwest's most successful, admired and fastest growing off-premise caterers.

Chef Charlie was born and raised in Inkster, Michigan, a few miles outside of Detroit, moving to Chicago in 2008 to pursue a career in culinary arts at The Illinois Institute of Art-Chicago. While attending school Charlie landed a job as a bellman with The Ritz Carlton Hotel-Chicago, eventually negotiating his way into the kitchen as a line cook. His unique talent and commitment became quickly evident, earning him promotions to Sous Chef and then Assistant Banquet Chef. After 13 years with The Ritz Carlton organization, Chef Charlie joined the Zelda’s Catering leadership team in 2021 as our Executive Sous Chef. In his free time Chef Charlie enjoys exploring Chicago and trying out its new restaurants. But first loves never die - he remains a passionate Detroit Tigers baseball fan and Detroit Pistons basketball fan.

Merry Jean grew up on Chicago’s north side and earned her degree from Robert Morris University in Business Management. She entered the hospitality industry in 1992 with Hilton Hotels & Resorts , working at the historic Hilton Chicago and Towers as well as the Palmer House Hilton. In 2005 Merry Jean began her next journey, joining Danziger Kosher Catering, where she developed a unique expertise in off premise kosher catering. In 2021 Merry Jean joined the Zelda’s team as Catering Director. With an uncompromising attention to detail, and a true love of her art, Merry Jean thrives on turning wonderful moments into lifelong memories for every host and every guest. She is a proud mom of three beautiful children and cherishes precious family time – jetting off together whenever possible to spectacular and sunny Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

Ben began his career in food service through volunteer work at several Israeli food kitchens as he was earning his degree in Business Administration and Finance from IDC International School of Business in Herzliya, Israel. In 2013 Ben moved from Herzilya to Chicago to join a rapidly growing Zelda’s Catering as its new Director of Operations, assuming the key responsibility of ensuring seamless and efficient day-to-day operations. Ben is proud to lead Zelda’s work with the local community, including its catering partnership serving the community’s less fortunate with the JUF Uptown Café.

Heidi grew up in Florida in a military family. She later graduated from the University of Missouri with a major in Psychology and a minor in Public Law. Before joining Zelda’s, Heidi worked at university, synagogue, and not-for-profit organizations managing events, ensuring that all details were handled to perfection. Heidi is a trumpet player, a member of her synagogue octet, and enjoys reading Torah, Haftarah and leading prayer services. She is also a certified Music Together teacher, sharing her love of music with children. Heidi enjoys learning new things, running around Skokie with her pup, road trips, hiking with family and friends, dancing, sewing and baking.

Kathryn feels gratitude for all the opportunities and challenges life has brought her.  Growing up locally, Kathryn entered the world of event hospitality in 2011 after earning her degree in Meetings and Events from Kendall College.  During her career following graduation, she has enjoyed applying her skills in a range of unique settings, from Michelin Star Award Winning restaurants to family owned catering venues.  She has contributed in many areas, including developing and training staff, implementing new protocols and procedures, and building lasting relationships with clients.  Kathryn joined Zelda's in 2023, and is excited to advance her career as a part of the Zelda's team.