Monday, March 21, 2011

How Do Caterers Get Fired Up???

They go to Catersource!


Held annually in Vegas, I returned a few weeks ago and am still recovering. Part of my delay recovering is due to flight issues involving Cleveland. No offense to those of you who live there but I do not want to ever connect through Hopkins International Airport Hell again in my lifetime! OK - am done venting... let me tell you about Vegas!


Catersource is an annual gathering of ~6000 caterers from all over the world. This 4 day symposium involves seminars and presentations that range from the latest food trends, hands on culinary experiences, management issues, 24/7 cater-talk and of course a few parties, (or extravaganzas) that are mind blowing! (Try emptying out your swimming pool and have a party in it). As it is held in conjunction with Event Solutions, there is also an entire program of courses dealing with the latest style, event design and execution.


The International Caterers Association provides much of the high-level education at this conference and produces the annual CATIE Award ceremony. Most of you know we were nominated for a CATIE for our Mad Hatter Cake. To be nominated (for these catering Oscars) alone is the thrill of a lifetime as recognition from our peers is such an honor. To date, we have had 15 nominations and two awards (just call me the Susan Lucci of the CATIES!). For me the best part of the conference is the camaraderie, exchange of ideas, sharing and generous support among catering professionals of all kinds. Developing relationships with others who have the same passion for our industry is invaluable and gets our creative juices flowing. I am grateful to be on the ICA board and thankful for this annual dose of inspiration and recognition.

No comments:

Post a Comment