It all began in 1984, when Al and Michelle Taylor decided that they would like to start a business of their own. At first it was a part time business designed to incorporate Michelle's hobbies of cooking, party planning and decorating. Al was a sergeant for the Tempe Police Department at the time and so Michelle began by creating custom gift baskets and specialized cakes for friends and family members. She soon added dinners for two and other intimate catering events to her repertoire. As word spread, Michelle found herself being asked to cater larger parties. Eventually, the gift basket service was discontinued and Al and Michelle leased a kitchen at Baseline and McClintock in Tempe where Special Moments began in earnest.

Today, Special Moments has incorporated and Al is President and CEO, long since retired from police work. Michelle acts as Vice President and Director of Catering. Much to the couple's delight, both of their kids have settled in to full time positions with the company. Dawn is the general manager and Brad is the Director of Sales. The business truly has evolved into a family dream.

To date, Special Moments offers multiple services including balloon décor and design, mystery parties, casino nights and much more. Catering continues to be the mainstay of Special Moments with menus that vary widely in cuisine. The company's location has expanded to include office suites and a tasting room as well as seven full time employees and a multitude of part-time and seasonal help. It has prepared meals for as many as a 1000 people in one setting and is the preferred caterer for many venues such as Arizona State University, Gammage, Banner Health Systems and much more. Community involvement and charity support is of huge importance to the owners of Special Moments. Thus, the company contributes financially or with services to a multitude of organizations including the Child Crisis Center, the MDA, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and many more. They have been recognized by their community with multiple awards including the 2004/05 Tempe Chamber's Business Excellence Award, the Business Journal's Gold Star Award and the 2006 SW Airlines/TCVB's “Service with a Smile” Award.

There was only one thing missing in the couple's dream... For many years, Al and Michelle have been in pursuit of a beautiful, lakeside restaurant formally known as The Boathouse. For this place, they visualized a morning coffeehouse with an incredible view and a warm, hospitable environment and a casual, yet upscale restaurant and bar for the evening. On July 1, 2006… they were able to add that missing piece and they have opened the doors to “Pier 54”.

So, that's what's happening! Al and Michelle would love to meet you – so please stop by and say hi! Pier 54 is open and waiting for you to come enjoy the beuatiful view, relaxing atmosphere, wonderful food, and excelent service. Come by Friday nights and you will be entertained by the talented Bill Garvin as he carries your worries away with the rock and blues of his guitar strings. We constantly have new and exciting events going on so check back often.