Events & Travel

Beer, Bacon & BBQ Festival

The Beer, Bacon, & BBQ Festival will pay homage to the glorious pig and the tastiest craft brews! You can sip your way through the festival with over 40 craft beers and some of Central Florida’s most delicious restaurants will be offering their best bacon and BBQ inspired eats! Food will be sold on-site separately from the ticket through cash/credit purchases and range in price from $2-$6.Ticket prices increase at the door the day of the event.




Epcot® International Food & Wine Festival
Walt Disney World

I was recently invited by my local Whole Foods to a Holiday Tasting. The spread was amazing, and they featured various items for Thanksgiving, Hanukkah and Christmas. You can even order everything online! There are two more days to order, so don’t hesitate. They have everything from Appetizers, Main Course, Sides, Desserts, and even beautiful Flowers for table decorations. Even if you already have your Thanksgiving meal planned, Whole Foods can help with all your holiday events!

I was able to taste a few appetizers, like their Smoked Salmon Platter and Blini with Caviar. Whole Foods also has a Cranberry, Walnut and Fig Stuffed Brie that was my favorite item of the night – it was absolutely delicious and will be making its way to my holidays this year! They also have Cheese Platters and Crudités, which are also perfect starters.

Turkey, Ham, Standing Rib Roasts, and even Turduckens are some options from the butcher. A variety of sides are also available, including the traditional Green Bean Casserole, Herb Stuffing, and Mashed Potatoes. Some other options are Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Macaroni & Cheese, Butternut Squash Risotto, Roasted Harvest Vegetables, Cranberry Orange Relish and Whipped Maple Sweet Potatoes.

Even though we get “stuffed” from Thanksgiving dinner, there is always room for dessert, and Whole Foods has that covered too. Apple, Pecan and Pumpkin Pies, Pumpkin Cheesecake and Tiramisu are among a few delectable options from the Bakery. The Bakery also has Sweet and Savory Breads – like their Cranberry Walnut Hearth Bread.

All-in-all, Whole Foods is definitely the place to go when you need a delicious holiday meal. Don’t forget, you can order online for two more days! Hope you have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Disclaimer: I was invited by Whole Foods Orlando to a Holiday Tasting where they featured a sampling of their Holiday Menu items. All opinions are my own. Unless noted, images provided by Whole Foods Orlando.

Tickets for the event can be purchased HERE. Please be sure to get them as soon as possible, if you’d like to attend, because they sell out every year.

Sponsored by Park Square Homes and Dr. Phillips Hospital, the event is Sunday, November 8th from 1:00 pm-4:00 pm at the Dellagio Town Center. Tickets include food, wine, and beer, as well as entry into the silent auction with amazing items to bid on, including gift certificates, hotel stays and theme park admissions. This year’s wine sponsor is Cooper’s Hawk and Orlando Brewing is sponsoring the beer at this year’s event.

The list of 20 local restaurants is amazing. Bravo Cucina Italiana, Rocco’s Tacos, Morton’s The Steakhouse, Maggiano’s, Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion, Vines Grill and Wine Bar, Dragonfly Sushi, Ocean Prime, Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza, Pammie’s Sammies, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse, Stefano’s Grill, Whole Foods, Bone Fish, The Whiskey, Dexter’s, Peperoncino Cucina, Big Fin Seafood Kitchen, Fusion 360 Grill & Bar, and The Melting Pot will all be showcasing their delicious creations.

100% of all funds raised from the Taste of Dr. Phillips goes back to the community for the following charities or organizations: A Gift for Teaching, Adopt a Precinct, Arnold Palmer Gold Invitational Tournament, Josh the Otter, Christmas for the Kids, Dr. Phillips High School Projects & Programs, Four Way Test Essay Contest, Give Kids the World, Dr. Phillips Library Author Series, Salvation Army Bell Ringing, YMCA of Dr. Phillips, Wine and Dine on the 9 (API), Birdies BBQ & U (API), and Dr. Phillips Little League.

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Disclaimer: I am being provided 2 media tickets in exchange for covering and promoting the event. Photographs from ATasteofDrPhillips.com. This event is for guests 21 years of age or older. Please remember to bring a government issued ID with you to enter this event.

2015 was my second year attending the Food & Wine Conference – created by Isabel Laessig from Family Foodie and The Sunday Supper Movement. I went last year, not knowing what to expect and barely knowing anyone. A lot has changed in a year. #FWCon inspired me so much that I volunteered to be on the planning committee for this year’s conference. I also joined the Sunday Supper Movement this year as well.

The Sunday Supper Family

As we were planning the conference, one of the big things our scheduling committee had to keep reminding everyone is that it is “subject to change”. We had that on our notes, on the conference website, and even the keynotes addressed it. I actually like that phrase quite a bit, it gives us room to modify if something is not quite right, but I also want switch the phrase to “subject for change”. I want to be a “subject for change” – I want to continue growing, learning, expanding my blog, and improving on everything I do, and conferences like this one inspires me to do that.

Photo from RosenShingleCreek.com

Over the past year, the bloggers I have met through the Food & Wine Conference have remained a big part of my life. They have become friends and mentors, and I am forever grateful for their presence in my life. Isabel is a big part of that presence. She is always so welcoming and caring and fun to be around. Isabel and our whole team worked extremely hard on this conference and I am so happy with the results. I was excited to start planning for next year as soon as the conference started, with my spreadsheets ready.

Since I live in Orlando, I decided to stay at home and commute to the conference each day. Day 1, after registration, bloggers headed into the Dixie Crystals Sweet Retreat for 3 make-your-own sugar scrub stations. Everyone had a blast and it was a great opening activity to get the conference started. There were also staff members from the Rosen Shingle Creek Spa giving massages.

Dixie Crystals Sweet Retreat

Following that, the Florida Strawberry Grower’s Association hosted a Chocolate and Strawberry Party. Pastry Chef David Ramirez gave a bonbon demonstration while we all sampled some of his amazing chocolates. We also toasted with Saint Augustine Distillery’s Strawberry Shortcake Cocktail – it was absolutely delicious and I am still trying to track down the recipe.

Strawberries & Chocolate

One of the most fun parts of the first day is the Taste of Rosen Shingle Creek. Action stations lined the room and we could sample small plates from all of the delicious Rosen restaurants. Signature cocktails were provided by Premiere Beverage and everyone had an amazing time trying all the food. The small group of ladies I was with all agreed the Baked Brie, Fried Oyster Bloody Mary and 7 Layer Mushroom Crepe were our favorites of the night.

Taste of Rosen Shingle Creek

Friday night, after all the festivities ended, a group of bloggers and I relaxed in one of the bar lounges for a bit. One of my local food blogging friends, Lisa from Taste Cook Sip, asked me if I wanted to stay in her room Saturday night. I was planning on driving to and from the conference, like I had last year, but she said knew that we would have a late night Saturday and early morning Sunday. I was very grateful for the offer and ended up staying with her on Saturday.

Special thanks to Kaitlin from Whisk Kid. She won this BMW but couldn’t take it home on the plane and gave it to #ToddlerLnC! She loves it and rides it with Jammer and Spuddy Buddy!

It was actually a bit nerve-wracking because it was the first time I wouldn’t see #ToddlerLnC for about 48 hours and my first night away since she was born. Everything went fine at home while I was away, and truth-be-told, I needed the away time at the conference. I know my husband and father can take care of her, and if I want to be able to go to more conferences, most of which are out of town, I need to be able a “subject for change” and let go a bit.

Saturday desserts after lunch

Saturday was a packed schedule and it was inspiring, enlightening, fun, and informative. We learned about everything from business success, balancing blog and home life, and  SEO, to working with brands and social media. I was also co-hostess of The Price is Right Foodie Edition, which was a lot of fun! We had a small break to relax and get ready for our Saturday night “Sunday Supper”. We all shared a wonderful meal together from Certified Angus Beef, paired with wines from the Hess Collection, and desserts sponsored by Dixie Crystals. After dessert, Idaho Potato brought the Dancing Heads and everyone had a good time.

Saturday night’s Sunday Supper around the family table!

Sunday came way too early, but thankfully we had an amazing brunch from Duda Farms. The food and mimosas was delicious and prepped us for a busy day ahead. Sunday was full of learning sessions and breakout panels covering all sorts of topics including photography, cookbooks, social media, SEO, wordpress, and wine and cheese pairings. Sunday afternoon was bittersweet. I had a great time at the conference and our whole team did an amazing job. The sponsors were fabulous and The Rosen Shingle Creek is the perfect host hotel. So much planning went into the conference and it was a wonderful 3 days.

Brunch on Sunday

The challenge I always have after conferences is similar to the challenge I had when going to church retreats in high school. They often told us a phrase that still sticks with me today, “live the fourth“. No one else, except the attendees, experienced what I had this weekend. Outside the conference, life went on like normal for everyone and as soon as it ended, life was going to go on like normal for the attendees too. Blogging and photography needs to get done, sponsored work, social media scheduling, all while balancing time with family and/or work. We need to keep the momentum going and work on what we learned throughout the weekend – implementing strategies, networking, whatever the takeaway is. We need to “live the fourth” day, and commit to be a subject for change. It is definitely not easy to juggle it all, but I think Walt Disney says it best…

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Clearwater Beach Uncorked is less than two weeks away. This delectable food, wine, spirits and beer event takes place at the elegant Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa. The Hyatt boasts great Gulf views and luxurious suites – truly a perfect setting for the event. Clearwater Beach Uncorked takes place February 7th and 8th, from 1pm-5pm each day.

The event title sponsors are Brighthouse Networks, Publix, Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa, and the City of Clearwater. Some restaurants that will be represented are Shor American Seafood and Grill, Armiani’s, Ocean Flame, Crabby Bill’s and Datz and it sounds there there will be some fabulous food. Over 100 wines from around the world will be available for tasting, as well as craft beer and micro-brews. Sea Dog Brewing Company, Chateau Ste. Michelle, Keel and Curley Winery, and the Blue Point Brewing company are just a few of the wine and beer sponsors that will be showcased.

Also, a portion of the proceeds benefit the USF Sarasota-Manatee College of Hospitality & Technological Leadership.

Tickets are going fast, so grab your ticket here! Cheers and see you there!

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!


Disclaimer: I am being provided a media pass for the Clearwater Beach Uncorked 2015. All opinions are my own. Photos from Clearwaterbeachuncorked.com.

Cows ‘n Cabs was created by Chef John Rivers, from 4 Rivers Smokehouse and The COOP, along with David Larue, from ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, to benefit local charities and help diminish poverty in Central Florida. This the Western-themed event donates 100% of the ticket sale proceeds as well as the proceeds from the auction will go to the Community Food & Outreach-a non-profit that helps fight hunger and provide hope in Central Florida, and Elevate Orlando-a non-profit mentoring and equipping the urban youth of Central Florida, providing character education, life skills and helping them graduate with a plan for their future and to establish long-term relationships.

This year, the organizers are expecting more than 400 attendees and wanting to double last year’s donation of $60,000. Anheuser-Busch, Southern Wine & Spirits and ABC Fine Wine & Spirits are providing more that 200 wine, spirits and craft beer samplings. What better way to enjoy great drinks than with great food.

Some of the fabulous local restaurants participating this year include 4 Rivers Smokehouse, The COOP, Se7en Bites, K Restaurant, The Meat House, Norman’s, The Crooked Spoon, Citrus, Txokos Basque Kitchen, Taverna Opa Orlando, Hawkers, P is for Pie, Cress, SOCO, Peterbrooke Chocolatier of Winter Park, Puff ‘n Stuff, Wolfies PizzaMia and Bluezoo. I am excited to meet all the wonderful chefs participating in this event. 4 Rivers Smokehouse is one of my favorite barbecue restaurants and I know they are going to have some delicious food prepared. Also, Chef Trina from Se7en Bites is a personal friend and fellow culinary school classmate and has given me a sneak peak at what she is creating for the event. “I am honored to have been chosen to serve along side my fellow colleagues to bring awareness to such a worthy cause and raise money that is used locally. I am excited to present our signature dishes that showcase Southern food at its best. Our garlic buttermilk biscuit with our brown sugar spicy sausage topped with our signature pimento cheese served with cheddar chive grits. Our dessert is our very moist and delectable oatmeal cream pies and a shot of our signature blend and locally roasted se7enbites coffee.”

Cows ‘n Cabs takes place in Winter Park West Meadow at 150 North New York Avenue, next Saturday, October 25th, 2014. VIP tickets can be purchased for $140 and attendees receive a one-hour sneak preview starting at 6 p.m. General admission tickets are $110 and with entrance at 7 p.m. VIP groups with private banquette seating and exclusive bar service is also available. Reservations are required and can be made through email to tina@cowsncabs.com

For more information, a complete list of sponsors, featured chefs and restaurants and to purchase tickets, go to www.cowsncabs.com 

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Disclaimer: I am receiving a press pass for the event in exchange for promoting and providing information about Cows ‘n Cabs. All opinions are my own. Photos courtesy of Cows ‘n Cabs.

Hey everyone! This coming weekend I will be going to the Food Blog Forum here in Orlando, Florida, hosted by Walt Disney World. I cannot wait to see my blogging friends and meet new ones. If you would like to know all about this amazing event you can find information here and also check out the posts below from my past 2 times attending FBF.

Food Blog Forum Orlando 2011
Food Blog Forum Orlando 2012 part 1
Food Blog Forum Orlando 2012 part 2

Have a great weekend and I can’t wait to share this wonderful experience with you.

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

The sun warmed us as honeybees flew near and we picked and ate blueberries off the bush. We rode around in a John Deere and learned about blueberries and blueberry farming for hours. We ate more blueberries. We tasted homemade Blueberry Orange Blossom Honey and a variety of Blueberry Jams. We ate some more blueberries, and planned what we would create with our haul. A truly wonderful Spring day…

A few local Food Bloggers and I recently went and took a tour of Lake Catherine Blueberries. I have been blueberry picking before and wait for blueberry season every year. I met one of the owners at a local farmer’s market and inquired about the farm. I can definitely say it was a great experience. The owners are incredibly nice and immensely knowledgeable. They welcomed us onto their farm and into their lives. Please read to the end for information on their grand opening celebration and a coupon for blueberries!

I love seeing where my food comes from and interacting with local farmers and producers. We learned so much about blueberries that our tour lasted about 5 hours. The quality of Lake Catherine Blueberries is incomparable to what is found in the grocery stores.

Most grocery store berries are over 26 days old due to the nitrogen displacement of oxygen for transport from South America. The use of nitrogen as a non-chemical method of food preservation is gaining acceptance in the food industry because it expands the availability of perishable items. Most fruit in grocery stores have had this nitrogen preservation. Lake Catherine Blueberries are picked fresh and sold in season – when the fruit is at its best.

The variety of blueberries depends on the climate. Blueberries need a specific number of cold hours each Winter to regulate their growth, known as chill hours – one hour of time with the temperature between 32 & 45 degrees F to set buds. If a blueberry bush doesn’t receive enough chill hours in the Winter, the buds might not open evenly, or at all, in the Spring.

Lake Catherine Blueberries grows 2 different types of berries appropriate for Florida chill hours, Emerald and Jewel. Emeralds are large, mildly sweet berries and Jewels are large, slightly tangy berries. They have these two different varieties for cross-pollination purposes – which creates more seeds.

For pollination, Lake Catherine Blueberries uses both Honey Bees and Bumble Bees. Their honey bees also make amazing Blueberry Orange Blossom Honey that they sell at the Farmer’s Markets and during u-pick season. Florida produces 20-25 million pounds of blueberries per year and Lake Catherine hand picks about 10,000 blueberries per day.

During blueberry season, Lake Catherine is open daily from 9am-5pm. Check out the Lake Catherine Blueberries Facebook Page for weather conditions and updates before you visit. They also encourage you to eat the berries right off the bush, so you can decide which type you like best. Come back on Sunday to see one of the desserts I made with Lake Catherine Blueberries!

This coming Saturday, April 20th, Lake Catherine Blueberries is hosting a Grand Opening Celebration for the season. There will be live entertainment, face painting, pony rides, hay rides and a barbeque, in addition to some wonderful u-pick berries. They will also be selling their jams, cobblers, syrups, honey and other Lake Catherine Blueberry products. Just remember that they do not accept debit or credit cards at this time, so please have cash. Below is a coupon for $2 off one pound of blueberries. Tell them Terri from Love and Confections sent you – you will love it.

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!