Moshe and Erin Lis, a powerful team, like to also cook "mostly Israeli dishes" at home.
Over three decades ago, Sandra and Clive Bank transformed Atlanta's bespoke entertainment landscape by founding a home-based business that evolved into a leading catering company. Operating out of a 9,500-square-foot facility with a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen in Sandy Springs, Added Touch Catering (ATC) expanded its services with A Kosher Touch (AKT) to solidify its position as a premier provider of upscale catering.
In a significant transition, the Banks recently implemented a long-planned succession strategy, formally transferring leadership to attorney Erin Lis and her husband, Moshe Lis. Erin now serves as president, overseeing sales, creative development, and the culinary divisions, while Moshe, an Israeli native, assumes the role of vice president, managing operations, including warehousing, logistics, and equipment.
Sandra Bank, renowned for her meticulous attention to detail, built a reputation for creating exceptional events. Often compared to Martha Stewart for her transformative "touch," Sandra reflected on the decision to step back: "The timing was right because ATC and AKT weathered the challenges of COVID and emerged stronger. Being a boutique caterer allowed us to adapt more quickly than larger, corporate-oriented competitors, as social events rebounded faster."
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She commended Erin's creative flair, deep client understanding, and ability to meet the business's demands, noting: "She is young and has the energy for this demanding 'weekend' work." While Sandra remains available as an advisor, she is taking a supportive, behind-the-scenes role to allow Erin to flourish independently.
Erin's entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic were shaped by her upbringing in a family of immigrants and business owners. With a B.F.A. in interior design from the University of Georgia (2007) and a J.D. from Georgia State University College of Law (2014), Erin's diverse career path has equipped her with the skills to deliver highly customized catering experiences. She upholds the company's philosophy that "the difference between ordinary and extraordinary lies in the added touches."
Currently, Erin leads a team of 15 full-time employees and numerous part-time staff. During peak seasons, such as December, ATC handles up to 30 events per week. Approximately 80 percent of the business caters to the Jewish community, though Erin plans to further diversify the company's client base.
Overall, the catering industry presents unique hurdles, from adapting to changing client demands to managing logistical complexities. For instance, ATC has introduced non-disclosure agreements to meet client confidentiality needs. Sandra noted the inherent unpredictability of the field: "Catering is not a science. Each event keeps us on our toes, as we're only as good as our last performance."
Clive Bank reflected on the personal sacrifices involved, including working during others' leisure time and the challenges of prioritizing family. Sandra shared insights into planning for guests' varying needs, factoring in details such as weather, guest demographics, and event timing: "Do guests eat more after 'Havdalah' services when they've been at the synagogue since 5:30? Or at Shabbat dinners where many have only had breakfast after traveling?"
South African native Sandra describes her career as "unbelievable and fortunate," emphasizing how her work fostered a sense of belonging after immigrating: "I worked tirelessly to give 110 percent to my clients, and while I may have demanded a lot from my team, I've been privileged to create exceptional events and develop wonderful relationships."
She also highlighted the loyalty of her staff, many of whom have been with the company for nearly two decades.
Erin is determined to honor and build upon this legacy: "Sandra laid the foundation for everything we know about this business. My mission is to cultivate the next generation. With the groundwork firmly in place, we're ready to elevate ATC to new heights."