Food is one of the best ways to bring people together, and let us tell you why. Historically, since the beginning of time and in all cultures around the world, we have had one thing in common. We all sat down around the same table for our meals. At that table, we shared memories, stories, laughter, or even mourned loved ones, all while sharing a piece of bread. Food has a massive influence on our culture, community, and family—the list goes on and on. For example, when was the last time you went out and did not share a snack with a friend, colleague, or anyone for that matter? Food connects us, and at events it’s more important than ever.
‘
Now, what does this concept really mean? Well, most events always have food, so how can we use it for more than just grabbing a snack, but turning it into a whole experience where the end result is bonding and enhancing the guest experience? Intriguing? We will use Case Study Highlight: Cowell Culinary Chaos for our blog reference.
Record Guest Interaction and Attendance
When hosting an event, the end goal is to achieve the best record of guest engagement and attendance. No one wants an empty trade show floor or ballroom dance floor. So how about we lure our guests with delicious and exciting food options? That would definitely guarantee some people will attend, but it might not be enough on its own to guarantee guest satisfaction.
Now, what can we do to elevate that experience aside from sitting around the table or grabbing something from an open buffet?
Cooking Competition
Yes, it is understandable why some might consider this a ridiculous idea. Why would anyone want to get their new suit dirty from cooking? You would be surprised that, on the contrary, our case study with Cowell Culinary Chaos showed just how thrilling such an activity can be.
In the event itself, the attendees teamed up with each other and had one challenge in mind: to source all the ingredients for a dish. They could sabotage each other by hiding ingredients, equipment, and more, but all in good spirits. Even if some ingredients were missing, the head chef would still make something delicious out of what he had.
This activity kept the guests engaged to the maximum, to the point that none of the attendees tried to sneak out early through the back door. They had so much fun, and the event was a success not only for the organizers but also in terms of team building.
Or, in other words, the same people who came in as relative strangers left more connected, and because of what? Food!
On Another Note
The success of the event does not have to rely solely on food, but it sure helps! This case study was only the tip of the iceberg of where and how you can incorporate food elements. This can also translate to other subcategories, such as drinks. For example, at our latest event, Celebration of Life, we had bike stations to power up smoothie machines. It was delightful to see the guests compete to see who could blend faster. It was such a cheerful and enlightening sight.
‘
Summary
Our point is that it does not have to be exclusive to one theme or a certain way to get people to connect on a deeper level. In a clever way, we could say they connect through their stomachs.
For more events that connect us, you know who to book!
