Chef’s Sampler

In June of 2007, the wonderful people at the Tallahassee Children’s Home Society (http://www.chsfl.org/) contacted me to host an event for 2,500+ attendees at their annual “Chef’s Sampler” in Tallahassee, FL. They had considered a new venue for this fantastic event, and I was ecstatic to take on the challenge!

With over eight months to plan, I couldn’t help but wonder if they might have been starting a bit too early.  If there’s one rule to event planning its this:  YOU CAN NEVER START TOO EARLY!  So, me and my inexperienced self started planning this enormous event to be held on March 2, 2008.  The event would require the venue to set up around 50 vendor booths, all with side/back paneling, tables, chairs, and electricity running through.  The venue would also have to set up stages for the two jazz bands who would perform the night of the event, and a set up a separate area for a silent auction, diamond champagne event, and registration.

The Chef’s Sampler came in went in what seemed like a flash, but my experience as a coordinator in one of the largest events in Tallahassee will never be forgotten!

Event Details

Children’s Home Society 23rd Annual Chef’s Sampler
Date: March 2, 2008
Attendees: 2,500+
Venue: Tallahassee Leon County Civic Center
Vendors: 45 of the finest Tallahassee restaurants
Coordinators:Jessica McAllister, with Erin Silvaroli, Chris Decent, and David Overstreet from CHS