Meet the team behind JDF Receptions

After more than 35 years in the food industry, Julio and Gladys Alvarez have cooked side by side with chefs from around the world. They have learned from Italian, Spanish, German, French and Argentinian masters, and have worked in international hotels including the Hilton and Radisson. Over time, the dream to create something of their own became too strong to ignore. They wanted a place where their love of food and celebration could come together in one setting.

That dream became JDF Receptions, a family-run venue in Windsor Gardens that brings people together over food, laughter and meaningful moments. Julio and Gladys built the business around a simple idea: food has the power to unite people, and great food can make life’s most important occasions unforgettable. From weddings and baptisms to anniversaries and milestone birthdays, every event is treated with the same care, flavour and warmth.

“I was inspired to start this business because I wanted to share our experience and passion for international cuisine,” Julio says. “I wanted to be part of those beautiful moments where everyone comes together to celebrate, eat our food, enjoy our service and just enjoy life.”

For Julio, the best part of a wedding is not a single moment but the feeling that fills the room. “It is when the bride smiles, when you see them happy from the start right through to the end. Then, just before they go, they stop to say, ‘Thank you Julio, Gladys and the whole JDF Receptions team for helping us celebrate the most important time of my life.’ That is what stays with me.”

His number one piece of advice for couples planning their wedding is to trust the professionals they have chosen. “Don’t think with your head, think with your heart. Follow your heart.”

Couples love working with JDF Receptions because of Julio’s experience, honesty and dedication. The food is consistently praised for its freshness, flavour and presentation, and the service is known for its warmth and attention to detail. Every guest is made to feel like part of the family, which is what keeps people returning year after year.

When the formalities are over and it is time to dance, Julio says one thing is certain. “The 80s and 90s music always gets everyone up. No matter their age, everyone ends up on the dance floor.”