Stephen and Stephanie's journey together began in 2003, when they first met while working in the service industry. Though their careers initially took different paths, Stephanie into administrative work and Stephen into owning and operating a tile installation business on Long Beach Island, they always shared a strong work ethic and passion for hospitality.

In 2009, Stephanie followed her heart and made a career shift into the culinary world. She honed her skills on the line at several small restaurants, gaining valuable experience in both food preparation and large-scale kitchen management. Before long, she began serving the LBI and surrounding areas as a personal chef.

As the size and scope of her dinner parties grew, Stephen began assisting with cooking, service, and coordinating the flow of each event. By 2016, it was clear there was a growing demand for their food and service, and the couple launched Sunny Rae’s Food Truck, expanding their reach and creating memorable dining experiences across the region.

The food truck quickly became a staple in the local community. From beachside lunches to neighborhood festivals, block parties, and town events, Sunny Rae’s became known for its high-quality ingredients, creative menus, and warm, personal service. Beyond just serving food, the truck became a way to connect with the community, whether it was customizing menus for private parties, helping to cater charity events, or becoming a reliable favorite at seasonal gatherings. Operating at Bayview Park on LBI allowed them to anchor their presence, serving both locals and visitors daily during the busy summer seasons.

Their reputation for consistency and care opened the door to even more personalized experiences, including backyard weddings that combined food truck service with in-home dining setups. The combination of culinary creativity, hospitality, and flexibility helped them stand out and grow a loyal customer base.

Their relationship with The Farm began through a mutual connection in the building trade. After several conversations—and a trial dinner—it became clear that Stephen and Stephanie’s culinary style and dedication to service were a perfect fit. On September 16, 2023, they launched their soft opening at The Farm, beginning a new chapter.

By the end of that year, Stephen officially stepped away from the tile business to focus fully on Sunny Rae’s Kitchen, and together, they’ve been proudly leading the catering team at The Farm, committed to crafting elevated, ingredient-driven comfort food that’s rooted in warmth, seasonality, and unforgettable flavor.