ABOUT CASTLE GARDENS ILM

Thoughtfully Crafted Experiences, Rooted in Hospitality

Castle Gardens ILM was founded on the belief that food should do more than nourish — it should bring people together, mark meaningful moments, and elevate the way we celebrate life.

Every event we serve is approached with intention, creativity, and care. From intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations, our focus is always the same: beautifully prepared cuisine, seamless execution, and an experience that feels personal from start to finish.

ABOUT CASTLE GARDENS

Thoughtfully Crafted Experiences, Rooted in Hospitality

Castle Gardens was founded on the belief that food should do more than nourish — it should bring people together, mark meaningful moments, and elevate the way we celebrate life.

ABOUT CHEF DEX

Chef-Led. Purpose-Driven. Intentionally Boutique.

DXtira “Chef Dex” Brown is the founder and CEO of Castle Gardens ILM, a boutique luxury catering and event planning company in Wilmington, North Carolina. Originally from the Bahamas, she was raised among lush gardens and tropical beauty—an influence that now shapes her elegant, nature-inspired events.

After nearly 20 years as a frontline healthcare professional, the pandemic inspired Dex to pursue her passion for culinary artistry and event design, while prioritizing family and wellness. Today, she creates refined, turnkey celebrations using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and thoughtful presentation.

Chef Dex personally designs each menu, blending Caribbean soul with global flavors and seasonal ingredients to create elevated yet deeply personal experiences. Castle Gardens ILM remains intentionally boutique, ensuring every client receives white-glove attention and a seamlessly curated event from start to finish.

Looking ahead to Spring 2030, Dex envisions expanding into a full botanical garden and conservatory venue—an eco-conscious space where families gather, celebrate, and create lasting memories.

Book an Event

ABOUT CHEF DEX

Chef-Led. Purpose-Driven. Intentionally Boutique.

Cooking is at the heart of everything Chef Dex does. What began as a personal passion has grown into a purpose rooted in hospitality, culture, and connection.

Chef Dex personally designs each menu, drawing inspiration from global flavors, seasonal ingredients, and the unique vision of every client. Her approach blends culinary expertise, refined presentation, and warm professionalism to create experiences that feel both elevated and deeply personal.

Rather than mass-produced catering, Castle Gardens remains intentionally boutique, allowing Chef Dex to give every event the attention it deserves.

OUR PHILOSOPHY

Designed for Meaningful Moments

We believe the most memorable events are the ones that feel effortless for the host and unforgettable for the guest. That’s why we focus on:

Chef-Curated Menus: Handcrafted by Dex to reflect your unique vision—never templates.

Artful Presentation: Designing tabletop elegance that tastes as good as it looks.

Seamless Execution: Clear communication and a calm, professional presence from planning through cleanup.

A Turn-Key Experience: We handle the details; you focus on the moments that matter.

OUR PHILOSOPHY

Designed for Meaningful Moments

We believe the most memorable events are the ones that feel effortless for the host and unforgettable for the guest.

That’s why we focus on:

- Chef-curated menus, never templates

- Thoughtful presentation and design

- Clear communication and calm execution

- Events that feel refined, warm, and intentional

From planning to cleanup, our goal is to create an experience that allows you to be fully present in the moment you’re celebrating.

The Hands Behind

Your Event

The strength of Castle Gardens ILM lies in the people who bring each event to life. Our team combines refined service, creative vision, and operational expertise to deliver flawless, turnkey celebrations. Every detail is thoughtfully managed with professionalism and grace. We take pride in creating an experience that feels effortless for you and exceptional for your guests. Your investment is supported by a team fully committed to excellence.

LOOKING AHEAD

The Gardens at Castle Gardens — Opening Spring 2030

Our upcoming garden venue, set to open in Spring 2030, will offer a dedicated space designed for intimate celebrations and curated gatherings surrounded by natural beauty.

Until then, we proudly serve the Wilmington region and surrounding beach towns, partnering with private homes and elite venues to bring the Castle Gardens experience wherever your celebration takes place.

LOOKING AHEAD

The Gardens at Castle Gardens — Opening Spring 2030

Our upcoming garden venue, set to open in Spring 2030, will offer a dedicated space designed for intimate celebrations, curated events, and unforgettable gatherings surrounded by natural beauty.

Until then, we proudly serve events throughout the region, partnering with private homes, venues, and event spaces to bring the Castle Gardens experience wherever your celebration takes place.