August 3, 2014 | Posted in:Special Events
The Food and Wine Conference took place July 18-20, 2014 at the beautiful Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando, Florida. Bloggers from all over the US, and the world, attended the food-centric event.
It was my first time attending a conference of this nature, to focus on my food writing. I had interacted with a few of the bloggers online and via email, but nothing really prepares you to be part of a group of 300 dynamic personalities who are there to hone their craft, learn and celebrate the camaraderie started for many on #SundaySupper.
We were greeted by Food and Wine Conference Organizer, Isabel Laessig, and welcomed personally by Mr. Harris Rosen.
Of course there was amazing food…
Prepared by the best…
Emily Ellyn and Executive Chef Jorge Oliveira share some trade secrets over beef tenderloin.
Which was a wonderful way to break the ice and get to know people. As those who live and write about food regularly touch on, nothing brings people together like sharing a great meal.
The second day brought all conference attendees the wealth of information on many subjects. From SEO 101 with Dan Cristo and Nicole Cook to social media tips and tricks on G+, Twitter, Facebook & Pinterest from panelists Dennis Littley, Lora Amato, Brianne Izzo, Kim Vij and Amanda Boyarshinov. There was a wealth of useful information packed into each session.
Lunch break provided the opportunity to let off some steam and enjoy the beautiful Florida day, BMW convertible courtesy of Fields BMW
Not everything was technical, we were treated to the vivacious personalities of Coryanne Ettiene and Jackie Gordon, who reminded us all to stay true to ourselves and to maintain our authentic voice. The cooking entrepreneurs in the audience appreciated the straight talk on taking prized home recipes into professional development, presented by Erika Kerekes and Michele Northrup.
In-between the sessions, attendees exchanged information, shared our takeaways and brainstormed on some of our individual challenges. The subject-matter experts, keynote speakers and brand representatives sat in on every session and welcomed questions from conference goers. There was a tangible presence of comradeship and support connecting each person from the seasoned pro, to the person about to sit at the keyboard for the first time to contribute their passion and knowledge to the blogosphere.
The feeling in the air was energizing, uplifting and inspiring; I left the second day of the 2014 Food and Wine Conference excited to delve into the final day of demos and work sessions.
Fields Auto Group provided the shuttle service to and from Rosen Shingle Creek and The Rosen School of Hospitality. We enjoyed riding in luxury & style!
Sunday’s schedule could be split up between demos and interactive sessions or a more academic lecture track. I would have loved to have attended all of the wonderful sessions, but was able to bounce between sessions to get the most for my individual needs. I took notes, pictures of slides, asked questions and felt like I was back in school at one point. So.Much.Great.Information.
The last day wrapped up with Whitney Miller demoing and addressing the group on recipe development, her journey on Master Chef and making several of her dishes. Whitney was warm and approachable, answering questions and signing books after the session.
The conference was over, but the fun had not ended. What better way to celebrate this great weekend, than to share a Sunday Supper together? We headed over to Taverna Opa in Pointe Orlando to start the evening by enjoying a delicious Greek meal.
Our large group was entertained by a belly dancer, we danced on tables, danced around the restaurant and celebrated our wonderful journey. Together.
Texas, North Carolina and Florida all represented by the bloggers in this photo.
A special thanks to all of the conference organizers, speakers, contributors and sponsors. Our host venues Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel and the Rosen School of Hospitality were extraordinary and very easy to navigate. Big thanks to all of the wonderful people I interacted with and all of the fellow food writers out there who took the time to pause (Wait, first take a picture of that awesome dish!) and share their experiences. I loved meeting and interacting with everyone!
I’m already looking forward to the 2015 Food and Wine Conference and hope that you’ll join us. If you are reading this post and have any questions, please reach out by commenting or drop me a line.
SAVE THE DATE:
2015 Food and Wine Conference at Rosen Shingle Creek
July 17-19, 2015
2015 Food and Wine Conference Discount Code: FWC15wilkL
Lisa Wilk
Hello, I'm Lisa Wilk! I'm a freelance food, wine and travel writer, photographer and presenter based out of Orlando, FL. While covering local restaurants and food events in the #1 tourist destination in the US, I find endless cooking inspiration when dining out. You'll often find me in the kitchen putting my own spin on those elevated chef creations to enjoy at home and when entertaining. I have a love and enthusiasm for wine, wine education and wine pairing. Find me about town teaching and demystifying wine as part of the popular @TheTastyTrio in the popular Wine, Cheese and Chocolate Perfectly Paired program series I've co-developed. Taste, Cook and Sip along with me on Twitter and Instagram at @TasteCookSip and @WineChix! Cheers!
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Betsy @ Desserts Required
August 9, 2014
What a great recap of a FANTASTIC event. I can’t wait until 2015. It’s going to be GREAT!
Lisa Wilk
August 20, 2014
Thanks so much, Betsy! Look forward to seeing you next year!! LW
Shana Overhulser
August 4, 2014
The Way Into A Foodie’s Heart
Attending my first Food And Wine Conference July 18-20, 2014
started my heart a-throbbing! The love for food, baking, introspect into blogging, web site know-how, and receipe posting was spread through to each of my fellow attendees. This weekend of unification soared off the charts ending in newly made friendships and a tight weave of food bloggers, food stylists, photographers, pr professionals, cookbook authors,
culinary students, and (who knew?) foodies.
Making this weekend even more monumental were sponsored dinners, tastings and demos by The Idaho Potato Commission, Gallo Family Vineyards, Cabot Creamery, Davidson’s Safest Choice Eggs, OXO, Dixie Crystals, Wish Farms, Beef, It’s What’s For Dinner and so many others.
I implore you; come along on this culinary and educational adventure in 2015, in Orlando, with BocaLocals.com – and savor each sweet moment!
Thanks Isabel and team – for a job well done!
Lisa Wilk
August 7, 2014
Well said, Shana. It was an incredible weekend and I’ve already locked in my ticket for next year. I look forward to seeing you there again! Cheers!