James began in the heart of New York, where he honed his skills at the prestigious Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, graduating in 1993. From there, he embarked on a culinary adventure, immersing himself in the vibrant culinary scene of New York City. James had the privilege of working at the renowned Le Chantilly, a French restaurant nestled off Park Avenue, where he refined his craft and developed a deep appreciation for classical French cuisine.

After years of honing his skills in restaurants and catering establishments, James ventured south to Charlotte, North Carolina, where he assumed the role of Executive Chef at Best Impressions Caterers. Over the course of 15 years, James led a talented team in creating unforgettable culinary experiences for a diverse range of events, from intimate gatherings to grand galas.

Driven by a desire for new challenges and opportunities, James made the bold decision to relocate to the historic city of Charleston, where he assumed the role of Director of Culinary at Duvall Catering & Events. In this leadership position, James is dedicated to fostering creativity, innovation, and excellence in every culinary endeavor, while maintaining a deep respect for local ingredients and culinary traditions.