History Redesign Proposal

Where It Started

An Individual Spark

The RK Group started changing the event-dining landscape in Texas 80 years ago with fresh ingredients, innovative menus, and attention to detail in every appetizer, entrée, and dessert. That tradition continues to this day — catering to our clients' every need, exciting palates, and exceeding expectations.

Like many success stories, ours starts with an individual spark. When Rosemary Kowalski began catering private parties in 1946, expanding on the small barbecue diner she and her husband Henry owned, the Kowalski family name quickly gained culinary fame.

By 1968, Rosemary's Catering had grown to become the preferred caterer for many of San Antonio's most prominent social and business events — and when HemisFair '68 shined an international spotlight on the city, Rosemary's served as official caterer for 105 of the 112 pavilion celebrations at the world's fair.

Eight Decades

Milestones

From one kitchen to a national portfolio — the moments that built The RK Group.

1946

The First Parties

Rosemary Kowalski begins catering private parties, expanding on the small barbecue diner she and her husband Henry owned.

1968

HemisFair '68

Now San Antonio's preferred caterer, Rosemary's Catering serves as official caterer for 105 of 112 pavilion celebrations at the world's fair.

1981

One Roof, One Stop

The growing operation moves to a six-acre downtown site, and Illusions Tents, Rentals and Event Design is formed — the start of the one-stop hospitality approach.

1989

The RK Group Is Born

Rosemary Kowalski transitions leadership to her son, Greg Kowalski, and the company is rebranded as The RK Group.

1990s–2000s

Diversify & Evolve

Circa DM and Flair Floral are founded; the group operates the Capitol Grill and Story of Texas Café and caters the University of Texas Etter-Harbin Alumni Center in Austin.

2008–2011

Beyond Texas

A Phoenix office opens in 2008, followed by a Houston office and an additional Illusions operation in Austin in 2011.

2020

The Red Berry Estate

The RK Group moves to a permanent headquarters on the historic grounds of the restored Red Berry Estate in southeast San Antonio.

Today

15+ Brands, One Family

An integrated portfolio of more than 15 collaborative brands serves clients across Texas, the United States, and international markets.

Aerial view of The RK Group headquarters at the Red Berry Estate

Looking Ahead

The Path First Paved by Rosemary

Today, The RK Group continues to expand its integrated service offerings, contracted venue management engagements, restaurants, and culinary and hospitality program management operations for partner organizations.

Guided by Greg Kowalski's leadership, the company carries forward a family tradition of quality, service, and innovation — inspiring and supporting a team of more than 1,000 employees building upon the path first paved by Rosemary Kowalski.

Our History

An Individual Spark

Milestones

The History of The RK Group

The Path First Paved by Rosemary

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