Lifetime Achievement

Tom McDowell is the esteemed Founder of Pavilion Catering, Inc. and Connecticut Wedding Group, both headquartered in Middletown, CT. With a rich background in culinary arts and food service management, Tom’s journey began at Xavier High School in Middletown before he pursued an Associate’s Degree in Culinary Arts and a B.S. in Food Service Management from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, RI.

In 1984, Tom launched Pavilion Catering, laying the foundation for a career devoted to culinary excellence. Building on this success, he founded Connecticut Wedding Group in 2008, setting a new standard for wedding planning and execution across Connecticut. Connecticut Wedding Group has become renowned for orchestrating some of the state’s most extraordinary wedding experiences, offering exclusive catering services at prominent venues, The Barns at Wesleyan Hills, The Pavilion on Crystal Lake, and Lyman Orchards. With a commitment to farm-to-table cuisine, innovative design, and comprehensive planning, Tom’s team has earned numerous accolades, including the 2019 ICA Catie Award for Signature Caterer for Best Wedding and the 2013 Connecticut Restaurant Association Chef of the Year

Tom’s exceptional contributions have earned him a place among the original members of the exclusive Leading Caterers of America, a prestigious network of the nation’s top catering companies. He is also a valued member of GROW; a Catering Educational Foundation (formally ICAEF) where he is the chairman of the advisory board, and the Les Amis d’Escoffier Society of Connecticut.

In 2023, Tom McDowell sold Pavilion Catering, Inc. to a dear friend and colleague, Robert Frungillo, but continues to be known for his humble approach, preferring to operate behind the scenes, while often being spotted in his “Head Groundskeeper” sweatshirt. While owner, and still to this day, he continues to ensure every detail of Pavilion Catering runs smoothly. His true passion lies in mentoring the talented team of CT Wedding Group, guiding them to create unforgettable wedding experiences that exceed client expectations. Tom McDowell’s visionary leadership and dedication continue to shape the landscape of catering and event planning.

Beyond his professional achievements, Tom is a dedicated family man living in Essex, Connecticut with his wife, Samantha. Together, they have five children, and are proud grandparents to two grandchildren, with another on the way this Halloween 2024. Outside of work, Tom and Samantha are active in their community and enjoy travelling, including culinary learning journeys, playing golf and pickleball, and enjoying winters at their home in Naples.