Meet Katie Barnes of East Grand Rapids

Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Barnes

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My path has been anything but traditional, but every step led me here. I started in corporate marketing, excelling in strategy and client relationships, but stress pushed me to reset. Culinary school led to an internship on a small Greek island, where I immersed myself in traditional Italian cuisine.

Traveling the world deepened my love for food and its connection to culture. I explored sustainable farming, learned from top chefs, and even sold cold-pressed juice at farmers’ markets. That passion led me to Rachel and her personal chef business, Relish. In 2019, we launched Porch Light, and when she stepped away, I carried it forward. Now, it’s a solo labor of love, blending creativity, connection, and everything I’ve learned along the way.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but every challenge has shaped the journey in unexpected ways. Leaving corporate marketing was a leap into the unknown. I had built a career based on structure and strategy, but my body was telling me it wasn’t sustainable. Walking away wasn’t easy—I had to redefine success on my own terms.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Porch Light is all about honoring the farm-to-table spirit with thoughtfully crafted dishes made from scratch, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Everything is prepared on-site to ensure the best quality and presentation. But beyond just serving great food, my focus is on creating an experience—one that sparks connection, nostalgia, and emotion. Food isn’t just fuel; it’s a powerful way to bring people together and create lasting memories.

What sets me apart is my deep understanding of the mind-gut connection. As a Certified Health Coach and Nutritional Psychology Expert, I recognize how food impacts not just physical health but mental well-being. Every dish is designed with care, balancing flavor, nourishment, and sustainability.

I’m most proud of the way Porch Light blends seasonally inspired cuisine with ethical sourcing and intentional storytelling. It’s not just about what’s on the plate—it’s about where it comes from, how it’s prepared, and the experience it creates.

We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
One of the most important lessons I learned during the COVID-19 crisis is just how vital it is to spend quality time with loved ones. When gatherings were put on hold, it became even clearer how much we rely on shared meals and in-person connections to feel grounded and connected. Food has always been a way to bring people together, but during that time, it took on an even deeper meaning—whether it was cooking at home for family, dropping off meals for friends, or simply appreciating the moments when we could finally sit at a table together again.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://porchlightgatherings.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/porchlightgatherings/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/porchlightgatherings/
• Other: https://substack.com/@porchlightgatherings