Community Interest
Lancaster Success Story: Emily Gonzalez
Emily is the owner of GEM's Catering and co-owner of Inna's Pierogi Shop.
Emily Gonzalez’s passion for food began in her grandmother’s kitchen in Puerto Rico. When her family moved to Lancaster, Emily was only 12 and her mother had to work long hours, so she took over all the cooking and cleaning at home.
After having her daughter at 18, followed by her son a few years later, she was cooking for her own family every day—and loved it. At 28, she was tired of working for others and not being home enough. That’s when a friend suggested selling empanadillas, and the rest, she says, is history.
Emily is now the proud founder and owner of GEM’s Catering, offering customized dining experiences that honor fresh and flavorful cuisine from all over the world. In 2024, Emily and her business partner also had the opportunity to purchase Inna’s Pierogi Shop, a Lancaster favorite that operates out of the Lititz and Lancaster Central Market. Their frozen pierogies are also sold in more than 12 local stores.
On top of all of this, Emily creates space to host women from the community at her Women Empowerment events, which aim to connect women to each other as well as opportunities for grants, loans, and other business resources that she wished she had when starting out.
“I want everyone who hears my story to know that success is possible no matter your background. As much as I am proud of my accomplishments, I also know how important it is to remain humble and true to yourself throughout it all.”
– Emily Gonzalez
You can stay up to date with Emily, her businesses, and her events by following @gemscatering_ on Instagram.
Want to discover more local? Follow Fig on Facebook and Instagram for inspiration.
