Meet the Chef: Ray Zaidan
Executive Event Chef at The Continental, Ford House

Chef Ray brings heart, heritage, and serious flavor to every dish. We asked him a few questions to get to know the story behind the chef’s coat—and his answers are just as soulful as his food.

What was the first thing you ever made in the kitchen?
“Instant ramen noodles. I came to Canada as a young child, and cooking quickly became both a necessity and a comfort. I learned early that you could take something humble—like a packet of ramen—and completely transform it. A little garlic, a squeeze of lemon, maybe some leftover chicken—it was my first lesson in creativity, survival, and flavor.”

What made you fall in love with cooking?
“Growing up, I carried a lot of responsibility, including helping to raise my younger sibling. Cooking was a way to take care of others—to provide joy, warmth, and comfort when life wasn’t always easy. I found purpose in the way a simple meal could shift someone’s day. Cooking gave me power, and eventually, it gave me a voice.”

What do you love most about working at The Continental?
“Being part of a team that shares my values: hard work, care, and pride in every detail. Continental and the Ford House is more than a workplace—it’s a place where I can align my personal story with a collective mission.”

What’s something you always keep in your fridge?
“Pickles. It’s a weird comfort food for me and I love it.”

What’s the one kitchen tool you can’t live without?
“My chef’s knife. It’s not just a tool—it’s a symbol of how far I’ve come. It’s the one thing I take with me everywhere.”

What’s your late-night guilty pleasure?
“McDonald’s double cheeseburger, no pickles, extra onions. It’s simple, fast, and for some reason, it just hits right.”

What’s your favorite dish on The Continental menu right now?
“The braised short rib sandwich stands out. It’s bold, rich, and full of soul—just like good food should be.”

If your cooking had a theme song, what would it be?
“Time (You and I) by Khruangbin. It’s mellow, rhythmic, and layered—like the meals I love to create. When I need to bring the energy up before service, Be Above It by Tame Impala gets me in the zone.”

Why should people come dine with you?
“Because I bring my story to every plate. I’ve walked a long road, and I try to bring that warmth, humor, and heart into the experience. There’s always something to laugh about, a memory to share, and a dish to connect over. Come dine with me any time.”

If you weren’t in the kitchen, where would you be?
“As a kid, I dreamed of being a pilot. I guess I’ve always wanted to take people places. Cooking does that for me now—just in a different way.”

What do you hope people feel after that first bite?
“I hope it feels like a warm hug. I want them to feel cared for, as if someone thought of them personally while preparing that dish. And I want that last bite to feel like a fond farewell—until next time.”

Come experience Chef Ray’s talent! Book a private event HERE.

Beloved experiences like guided tours of the Main Residence and gardens return, including the audience-favorite Nooks & Crannies Behind-the-Scenes Guided Tour and the All About Eleanor Guided Tour. New specialty guided tours will explore the Fords’ art collection, architectural elements, and other unique aspects of the home.

As always, families will enjoy dozens of exciting experiences throughout the year. From meeting the Easter Bunny for a photo on Sunday, April 13, to daytime trick-or-treating at Little Goblins on Saturday, October 25, children have lots of opportunities for play and exploration. New in 2025 are Ford House’s children’s teas, affectionately named Once Upon a Tea. These relaxed tea services are created for children aged twelve and younger and center around favorite children’s literature characters. Families can enjoy the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, celebrating the whimsical Alice in Wonderland, on Saturday, March 15 at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., and the Emerald City Tea Party, celebrating L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Guests will enjoy tea and child-friendly treats while costumed characters travel the room and chat with children.

Families can also immerse themselves in educational adventures. Lake Fest on Saturday, July 26, is a S.T.E.A.M.-based learning festival celebrating Lake St. Clair and the flora and fauna living in and around it. Story Festival on Saturday, September 6, produced in partnership with the Grosse Pointe and St. Clair Shores Libraries, will bring children’s favorite stories and characters to life through interactive experiences.

On Thursday, August 7, at 7 p.m., the Grosse Pointe Theatre returns to Ford House for the second year of the Shakespeare Stroll. Attendees will experience the timeless works of Shakespeare as the Bard’s stories come to life across the scenic grounds of Ford House. This unique walking theater event invites guests to wander from scene to scene, where professional actors perform vignettes from some of Shakespeare’s most beloved plays. With nature as the stage and the historic estate as the backdrop, the Shakespeare Stroll offers an enchanting blend of culture, history, and the great outdoors.

In 2025, Ford House will introduce Cabaret Over the Cove, a new, intimate concert series set in the beautiful Lake Shore Room on the second floor of the Visitor Center, overlooking Ford Cove and Lake St. Clair. These performances will offer guests an elegant and cozy musical experience. This inaugural Cabaret Over the Cove Series will feature the White Pines String Quartet on Valentine’s Day on Friday, February 14, at 7 p.m. Guests will enjoy a signature cocktail and hors d’oeuvres, followed by a special Valentine’s Day three-course dinner and champagne with dessert.

Three additional Cabaret Over the Cove events are scheduled throughout the year. On Friday, May 9, at 7 p.m., Ben Sharkey will bring his charismatic blend of vintage cool and contemporary energy, fusing jazz, soul, and pop. Future cabarets include performances on Friday, November 7, and Friday, December 19, for a holiday-themed Christmas Cabaret Over the Cove: Yule Be Singing. Each will include passed appetizers, drink tickets, and access to a cash bar. These concerts are capped at 150 attendees, creating an intimate and exclusive experience.

Ford House will also debut Gather in the Garden, an elegant outdoor dining experience designed to immerse guests in the beauty of nature while offering a unique and intimate culinary adventure. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Formal Garden, this event combines the charm of al fresco dining with the tranquility of Ford House’s historic estate and live music. Gather in the Garden takes place on Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, June 29, at 7 p.m.

Get ready to “take a chance” on an unforgettable summer as Ford House kicks off its Outdoor Summer Concert Series. Join us on Friday, July 18 at 7 p.m. for Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute, where guests can relive the magic of ABBA and say “I Do, I Do, I Do” to a night filled with catchy tunes and unforgettable memories. Following, the renowned Michigan Philharmonic will grace the stage on Friday, August 15, at 7 p.m., bringing their symphonic brilliance to our beautiful grounds. And to wrap up the Outdoor Summer Concert Series, Ford House will welcome back The Dave Hamilton Band on Friday, September 12, for the second year in a row. It’s going to be a summer filled with musical “super troopers”—don’t miss out!

Harvest Day invites visitors to Ford House on Saturday, September 27, for a day full of seasonal delights and timeless traditions. Visitors can dine on fresh cider and donuts as they explore the bustling fall market, filled with unique goods from dozens of local vendors.

Ford House invites adults who are into the Halloween season to attend one of four Murder Mystery Dinners on Fridays and Saturdays, October 10, 11, 17, and 18. Each takes place in the Lake Shore Room on the second floor of the Visitor Center overlooking Ford Cove. Tickets include a seated dinner, two drink tickets, and access to a cash bar. Big Goblins, Ford House’s adult Halloween party, is back in a whole new way. On Saturday, October 25, adults (21+) will enjoy a spooky nighttime twist on our beloved Little Goblins. Collect adult treats while evading shadowy characters lurking in the darkness as you embark on a haunting journey through our eerie trail. Satisfy your cravings at our bar and concession stands, where delicious food and drinks await. Gather around the bonfire for live entertainment to keep the chills and thrills coming. When you’re ready to wrap it up, hop aboard the haunted hayride for a ghostly journey back to the Main Gate.

During the winter, visitors have several opportunities to enjoy the Christmas charm of Ford House and meet Santa Claus. On select dates in December, children can get their picture taken with the Jolly Old Elf at Cookies with Santa. Families can sit down to a delicious holiday brunch at Brunch with Santa on Sunday, December 7 and 21, for a hot buffet and a chance to say hello to Old Kris Kringle.

And for those looking for a truly magical evening experience, Home for the Holidays at Ford House welcomes guests on an enchanting evening stroll throughout the estate. Open Fridays through Sundays, from December 5 through 21, Home for the Holidays at Ford House is a spectacular one-mile path that sparkles with shimmering lights, creating a festive atmosphere like no other. On the walk, guests can step inside the Main Residence for a self-paced exploration, enjoying Eleanor Ford’s beautifully adorned decorations. Warm up with a complimentary hot chocolate from the concessions tent, adding a cozy touch to your holiday outing. And don’t miss a special visit from Santa Claus at the Playhouse. Capture the magic with a photo op along the path and create unforgettable memories this holiday season. Friends of Ford House, media partners, and select VIPs are invited to a VIP Preview of Home for the Holidays at Ford House on Saturday, November 29.

“Our 2025 season is shaping up to be one of our most exciting yet,” said Mark J. Heppner, President & CEO of Ford House. “From new events like Once Upon a Tea and Cabaret Over the Cove to beloved traditions like our summer concerts and holiday celebrations, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy. We can’t wait to welcome our community and visitors from near and far to experience the joy, beauty, and history of Ford House in new and meaningful ways.”

Ford House’s 2025 lineup promises a season filled with unforgettable experiences, from enchanting family activities to intimate musical performances and immersive cultural celebrations. Each event reflects Ford House’s commitment to fostering community connections, creating cherished memories, and sharing the legacy of Eleanor and Edsel Ford with guests of all ages.

Guests are invited to enhance their experience by becoming a Friend of Ford House, enjoying exclusive benefits such as discounts on tickets, dining, and shopping, as well as access to pre-sales for popular events. Tickets to Ford House’s 2025 events and programs go on sale soon—visit fordhouse.org to learn more and be part of a year-long journey of discovery, fun, and tradition.

This winter, we’ll focus on a significant tree care project as we remove several trees impacted by Dutch Elm disease. Dutch Elm is a fungal disease spread by beetles that has devastated elm populations across North America. Infected trees can quickly die off, posing risks to other trees and overall landscape health. With our own elms succumbing to this disease, we have decided to remove the affected trees to prevent further spread and ensure the safety of our grounds.

Timing is important in this process. To minimize soil compaction and disruption to the landscape, we’ll wait until the ground is frozen to begin tree removal. This thoughtful timing helps us protect the surrounding vegetation and maintain the integrity of the grounds. Frozen ground allows us to safely bring in the necessary equipment without causing undue stress on the landscape—a priority for our dedicated Landscape team.

The work doesn’t end with the removal of these trees. In alignment with our commitment to preservation and historical accuracy, we’re taking this opportunity to restore the landscape carefully. For each tree removed, we’ll be planting a new tree in its place, selected specifically to reflect the types of trees that would have originally been on the property. This restoration includes species such as American elms and other varieties historically found at Ford House. We’re not simply planting new trees—we’re restoring the natural beauty that the Fords originally enjoyed, recreating an authentic look and feel for future generations.

This project reflects Ford House’s broader mission of preserving our historic buildings and gardens and the landscape itself. These trees are part of Ford House’s legacy and, like all elements of our historic site, require thoughtful care. By taking proactive measures, we ensure that our landscape remains vibrant, safe, and historically accurate.

We understand that tree removal can be concerning, and we want to be fully transparent with our community. Our goal is to create as little disruption as possible while protecting the health and beauty of our grounds. This work is necessary, but it’s also a vital opportunity to bring renewed life to the estate’s landscape by planting young trees that will flourish for years to come.

When you visit Ford House this winter or in the coming spring, you may notice the new plantings beginning to take root. Over time, these trees will grow to create a lush, thriving canopy that respects the estate’s history while contributing to its future. We appreciate your understanding and support in this important work, as together, we continue to honor the beauty and legacy of Ford House.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Every step we take helps to preserve Ford House’s story and its connection to the natural world, ensuring that its beauty endures for generations to come.

Lisa Campbell has dedicated over a decade of her career to serving in administrative and human resources roles, where her efforts have always centered on empowering employees and fostering a positive, inclusive workplace culture. As Director of Talent & Culture at Ford House, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and National Historic Landmark, Campbell plays a key role in aligning the organization’s mission with employee satisfaction, retention, and professional development. Her leadership is guided by a deep commitment to balancing the needs of the employee with the vision and mission of Ford House, creating an environment that supports growth and collaboration.

“Lisa’s passion for people and her expertise in human resources have transformed the employee experience at Ford House,” said Mark J. Heppner, President & CEO of Ford House. “She has been a champion for cultural changes at Ford House and has been instrumental in crafting policies that elevate both our staff and our organization, and this honor is a reflection of her dedication and talent.”

A graduate of Wayne State University, Lisa Campbell’s professional journey has included roles in education, civil service, and human resources. Her diverse background has allowed her to approach HR from a service-minded perspective, with a focus on employee retention and engagement. Under her leadership, Ford House has become a place where employees are not only valued but empowered to grow both personally and professionally.

Campbell remains committed to the development and well-being of the team at Ford House. This ASE honor highlights her contributions to the field of human resources and the lasting impact she has made on those around her.

The ASE Human Resource Executive of the Year award celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to the human resources profession, particularly in the areas of leadership, organizational effectiveness, and fostering workplace culture.

To learn more about Ford House and its employment opportunities, please visit http://fordhouse.org/employment

From 11 a.m. through 3 p.m., guests can enjoy the breathtaking grounds and gardens while participating in family-friendly activities throughout the property, including:

• Trick-or-Treat Trail: Children can travel along our Trick-or-Treat Trail, stopping at the child-friendly Halloween stations to collect delicious treats and playful goodies from friendly characters.
• Jack-O-Lantern Decorating: Let creativity run wild as kids unleash their artistic talents on Cuties mandarin oranges, transforming them into festive masterpieces to take home.
• Photo Opportunities: Whether sitting under the 15-foot tall Pumpkin King or galloping through a mini-corn maze, there are innumerable opportunities to capture your family’s smiling faces on camera.
• Haunt-Free Hayride: Hop aboard our haunt-free hayride for a tractor-pulled trip from the Main Residence to the Gate Lodge.
• Cider & Donut: Every ticket gets a free cider and donut!

“This event has always been a special time for families across metro Detroit to come together, celebrate the season, and make lasting memories,” says Ford House Director of Communications & Engagement, Tommy Karr. “Little Goblins is more than just a festive gathering—it’s an opportunity to build community, spark joy, and create moments that children and their families will cherish for years to come.”

During this year’s Little Goblins event at Ford House, concessions will be available for families to enjoy. In addition to seasonal treats and snacks, adult beverages will be offered for purchase, providing something for everyone to enjoy as they participate in the festivities. It’s a great way to make the event even more enjoyable for both kids and adults alike!

Tickets for the Little Goblins event at Ford House may be purchased online at www.fordhouse.org/littlegoblins.

Early bookings are encouraged as this bewitching experience tends to sell out quickly. Admission is $20 per child and $8 per accompanying adult. Friends of Ford House enjoy discounted tickets of $15 per child and $5 per adult. To learn how to become a Friend of Ford House, visit www.fordhouse.org/friends.

Partnering with the Michigan Humane, we aim to support their noble cause with 40% of ticket sales benefiting their efforts.

“We’re thrilled to expand our relationship with Michigan Humane,” says Director of Visitor Experience Amanda Rutland. “Having supported their Mutt March for years, this event is a wonderful opportunity to further our shared commitment to animal welfare and community engagement while also welcoming new guests to Ford House.”

You may even get a chance to meet Moss the Goose Dog, Ford House’s very own Border Collie. Moss has been an integral part of the estate for seven years, expertly keeping the estate pristine by herding away Canada geese. His dedication and friendly presence make him a beloved team member at Ford House.

Please note that dogs must always be on a 6’ leash and are not permitted on Bird Island or inside buildings.

Admission is free for Friends of Ford House members. Public tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 4 to 12 (children under three are free with the purchase of an adult ticket).

Tickets are on sale now and may be purchased online at www.fordhouse.org or by phone at 313-884-4222.

Ford House is grateful to its annual sponsors, including Ford Philanthropy, Northern Trust, Bodman PLC, Henry Ford Health, D Land Group Property Management, Frank Rewold & Sons, Brown & Brown/Philadelphia Insurance, Grunwell Cashero, Saros Real Estate Services, Event Theory, PGS Dentistry/Growing Smiles.

“We are thrilled,” said Amanda Rutland, Director of Visitor Experience. “There was a collective cheer in the room. We are very proud of the events that we host here and we think we make some pretty magical memories for people, so to be honored with this is a true privilege.”

The Visitor Center at Ford House, with its stunning views overlooking Ford Cove, offers a perfect setting for any celebration. Whether planning a shower, family celebration, corporate event, or private party, the Visitor Center’s elegant and versatile spaces can accommodate a variety of occasions, ensuring each event is both memorable and unique.

On-site catering services at Ford House are tailored to meet the culinary desires of every event, providing exquisite menu options that enhance any event. The dedicated and incredibly talented staff are committed to offering personal support and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of an event runs smoothly.

And what makes Ford House stand out? Rutland says, “We are a national historic landmark. That sets us apart from a lot of organizations. To be able to entertain your family and guests where the Ford family did the same, you can’t replicate that in very many places in the world. The backdrop here, the view from Ford Cove and Lake St. Clair is unparalleled. Combining history and the beauty of the landscape is just something you can’t get anywhere else.”

Ford House invites everyone to experience the charm and elegance of hosting their next event in the remarkable new Visitor Center. For more information about rental opportunities and to schedule a tour, please visit www.fordhouseevents.com.

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