The People of PERLE
Founders
Aura Chu, Founder & CEO
Born and raised in France, Aura moved to California where she developed desserts for French restaurants and joined the Facebook (now Meta) headquarters pastry team. As her pastry career flourished, she created an event planning company, sparking and growing her enthusiasm for the craft.
Two years ago, Aura relocated to New York City, where she worked as an executive pastry chef with Michelin-starred chefs and A-list celebrities in a variety of luxury restaurants throughout the city.
Despite her busy schedule, she discovered a passion in hosting tea parties for her friends using her collection of vintage tea sets. Before long, PERLE by Aura was born: a tea party planning service which quickly evolved into a full-service event planner.
Timothy Chu, Co-Founder & Photographer/Videographer
Timothy is a native New Yorker who grew up with a constant dedication towards exploring new interests, whether it was drawing and playing instruments as a child or pursuing biomedical engineering as a college student.
While in college, Timothy worked for a sushi catering company that served private events in New York country clubs, exclusive Manhattan venues, and eventually a permanent location inside the United Nations international headquarters. It was through these experiences that he developed a deep appreciation for the service industry and the complex excitement of event planning.
A few years ago, he discovered a profound interest in photography while taking landscapes on his phone. After being gifted a professional camera by Aura, he pivoted rapidly into street, portrait, and event photography and videography.
Team
Adijatu Jalloh, Chef
Originally from Guinea, Chef Adijatu “Adji” Jalloh became fascinated by the art of cooking when she moved to the United States at the age of 8. By 16 years old, Adji was climbing the ranks in culinary competitions and in professional kitchens, and went on to graduate with a degree in Culinary and Hospitality Management. Her culinary journey brought her to several acclaimed restaurants across New York City, including PILOT, Nobu57, and CUT by Wolfgang Puck—where she currently is a Sous Chef. Adji is also a Fellow of the James Beard Foundation and runs her own catering company, A.M.J. Fusion, along with her two business partners.
After traveling to a few countries around the world, Chef Adji found enjoyment in exploring different cultures and inspiration in using food to tell stories. Her goal is to help bring West African cuisine and different flavors to the fine dining table.
Joselyn Del Valle, Photographer
Born in Puerto Rico, Joselyn is a film photographer whose work reflects a deep appreciation for the artistry and nostalgia of traditional photography. From an early age, her passion for photography was sparked by her father, who shared his love for the art form as a hobby. In her journey as a photographer, Joselyn has found her true passion in film photography.
While she also delves into digital work, her heart is drawn to the tactile process of shooting with film. Embracing each frame as it unfolds organically and authentically, she finds joy in the unique and timeless qualities that film brings to her work.
Ezra Lewis, Fairy Godfather
Born and raised on the island of Trinidad & Tobago, Ezra was immersed in a deeply vibrant cuisine from an early age. As a graduate of Johnson & Wales University, Ezra has accumulated a substantial portfolio including Augusta National Golf Club, Sous Chef at Tom Colicchio’s Craftsteak at MGM Grand Las Vegas, Executive Chef at the Freehand Hotel New York, and Executive Chef at Collective Governor’s Island.
Besides managing restaurants, Ezra has also served as chef for the personal catering of superstar artists including Drake, Alicia Keys, Mary J. Blige, Kelly Clarkson, Maroon 5, and Swedish House Mafia.
Anthony Bedoya, Brand Designer
Anthony is a brand designer based in Toulouse, France. Passionate about drawing since his childhood, he always aspired to devote his life to creation.
He studied engineering in university to assuage his parents but the experience allowed him to structure his thinking and develop problem-solving skills. After four years in aeronautical project management, he decided to reconnect with his passion for graphic art.
Three years ago, his curiosity led him to brand design, a field that quickly captivated him due to its existence at the crossroads of drawing and problem-solving. His natural affinity for the discipline led quickly to multiple contracts and he continues to push his limits and hone his craft.
Chloé Danton, Creative & Copywriter
Sometimes the same shell can create two pearls. And often, they complement each other in a way that can only be described as magic.
Chloé is not only Aura’s sister but also her literary counterpart. Since they were very young, Chloé has been able to put into words the images Aura has had in her head. A wordsmith at heart, she is fluent in French, English, and Spanish — giving her the ability to transmit meaning and juggle wordplay across languages.
3T Consultants
The process of shaping PERLE by Aura into existence began with the support of Melika Alipour, Andrea Burgueno, Yuxin Cheng, Elena Habre, Cameron Hanson, and Winnie Chang — in an unassuming apartment called 3T. A powerhouse of creative thinkers, product managers, and branding experts, the team accelerated the conceptualization and development of the PERLE identity, purpose, and values.