Inspired by her dedication to preserving the tradition of family mealtimes and driven by the spirit of entrepreneurism, Doris Christopher founded Pampered Chef from the basement of her suburban Chicago home in 1980.

Her experience as a home economics teacher (and stay-at-home mother) enabled her to recognize the need for time-saving kitchen tools and techniques designed to make cooking quick and easy. She came up with a simple plan to offer professional-quality kitchen tools directly to consumers through in-home cooking demonstrations offered by a sales force of “Pampered Chef Consultants.” 35 years later, the business has blossomed into a multimillion dollar enterprise with tens of thousands of consultants worldwide.

Pampered Chef became a member of the Direct Selling Association (DSA) in 1986. Christopher was named to the Board of Directors in 1992, and then served as Chairperson. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of the DSA and is a member of the Executive Committee of the Direct Selling Education Foundation.

Doris has been recognized with numerous awards, including the 2012 Torchbearer of the Year Award for her leadership and dedication to ethical business practices by the Better Business Bureau of Chicago and Northern Illinois; and “The Order of Lincoln Medallion,” the highest honor for outstanding achievement the State of Illinois bestows to people who were born or have resided in the state.

Doris is the author of “The Pampered Chef: The Story of One of America’s Most Beloved Companies” and “Come To The Table: A Celebration of Family Life.”

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