The Restaurant and Food Industry

It's been awhile. Probably because over the last few months I have been extremely busy working for my clients in the food and restaurant business. I have come to find this industry very exciting and tiring giving me a new found respect for all professionals involved in making delicious food and creating a relaxing atmosphere so we can enjoy a meal.

This week Landon's Corners in New Albany officially opened! This week Bellisari's Catering and The Culinary Table finalized their new summer menu, which I helped create. Before you know it the summer season and all its celebrations will be here. This catering menu is a tasty option to include in your graduation, milestone celebration, corporate or family event.

Work Is Taking Me To New Albany

Over the last few months I have been busy with a client in New Albany. It's kind of a new client and kind of not. Last year I worked with The Culinary Table in Grandview owned by Annette Bellisari Johnson.

This spring Annette is expanding her business to New Albany creating a banquet facility and cooking classroom in the heart of New Albany at 29 S. High Street. I've been creating new marketing materials, updating the blog and using social media for awareness. The Culinary Table has a Facebook page. Become a fan to get up-to-the minute info on cooking classes, wine tastings, and special events.

Along with The Culinary Table New Albany I am also working with Annette's husband, EJ on a connecting restaurant he is opening, called Landon's Corners. Landon's Corners has quite a bit a history since it is the location where, back in the 1800's, New Albany founder, Mr. Noble Landon had a tavern of his own in that location called Landon's Corners. The restaurant will open in April and will feature a delicious, unique menu offerings like "juicy lucy" and bison bites. Landon's Corners will also offer happy hour, special nights for families and evenings with live music starting with The Conspiracy Band celebrating their 20th anniversary on April 16th. Reservations are now being taken for the 20th anniversary celebration with Conspiracy. Call 614.855.1901 to make a reservation.

"Where the roads connect and the neighbors meet."

Opening a restaurant is exciting, time consuming, and never dull. For now, my part in the restaurant has been some marketing. I created the logo, tag, free appetizer coupons, gift card and loyalty card and soon will start a Facebook page.

As things continue to progress I'll keep you updated!

One of the Largest Midwest Maternity, Baby & Kid’s Expo Grows To Columbus And Cleveland

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Michele Savoldi, columbus imPRessions

740.816.3251 or Michele@columbusimpressions.com

or

Kendra, Nicastro, K.C.’s Creative Events

740.972.1471 or kcscreativeevents@yahoo.com

Ohio mom of two creates event that caters to expectant and young families

Becoming a parent and raising a family is a difficult blessing and Kendra Nicastro knows first-hand what that is like. Being a mother of two young children, as well as having a background in event planning, Nicastro realized there weren't any events specifically catered to expectant parents and young families and took the initiative to form her own company, K.C.’s Creative Events, LLC. creating the Baby Bonanza & Kid's Expo. In 2007, The Baby Bonanza & Kid's Expo was "born", and in just three years, the Expo has become one of the largest consumer maternity, baby and kid's shows in the country, specifically focusing on families with children ages 0 - 10 years of age.

"Raising a family is difficult. You need to gather a lot of information to make informed choices such as what hospital should you go to? What daycare should you choose? Where can you buy unique items for your baby and family?” Nicastro’s goal is to produce an educational and fun community event, one where attendees can gather a wealth of information from businesses and organizations, enjoy educational seminars and entertainment, but also shop for fun items for the family. Nicastro says another reason she created this Expo is “because I wanted to allow business of all sizes, large and very small businesses, the opportunity to market their products and services at an affordable cost. Many of the Expo’s exhibitors are women-owned businesses offering hand-made and unique items and our attendees love having a variety of companies at the show."

Nicastro and The Baby Bonanza & Kid's Expo has received national recognition by winning the Show Manager of the Year award from The Expo Group in 2008, and has also been nominated by her exhibitors for the Trade Show of the Year and Show Manager of the Year presented by TSEA, as well as Honorary Recognition in the StartUpNation Home-Based 100 Competition.

The event has been produced in Columbus and Cincinnati attracting consumers from all over the state of Ohio and beyond. Now in its fourth year, the Expo has grown to include Cleveland. This year’s Expo, held in Columbus and Cleveland, will feature over 100 exhibitors, educational seminars, entertainment, diaper derby baby races, baby and toddler fashion shows, a dad's challenge, green pavilion, NICU reunion and interactive kids play areas, including a Princess Tea Party.

Columbus Event:

Saturday April 10 - Sunday April 11, 2010

Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Veterans Memorial

300 W Broad St

Columbus, OH 43215

Cleveland Event:

Saturday, April 24 – Sunday April 25, 2010

Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Sunday: 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Cuyahoga Convention Center

638 Transportation Boulevard

Garfield Heights, OH 44125

Each year, a portion of the proceeds benefit The March of Dimes, the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health that is dedicated to improving the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality

For the future, Nicastro hopes the show will continue to grow at a steady pace and may produce the Expo in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. Nicastro adds, "We are pleased with the growth of the Baby Bonanza and Kid's Expo and we want to continue to make it a quality event that has something for everyone in the family.”

The Baby Bonanza and Kid's Expo is currently accepting exhibitors and sponsors for the 2010 expos in Columbus and Cleveland. For more information, call 740-972-1471. Event information is located on the event Web site at www.BabyBonanza.net.

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Committing To Be Fit

A few months ago I partnered with new client, 10TV Commit To Be Fit! I love the program and the folks I work with at 10TV, especially Andrea, the spokesperson for the program.

Yesterday I spent the day manning the Commit To Be Fit booth at the Kids Sports & Fitness Expo signing people up for the Commit To Be Fit on-line community, (which will be coming soon) and will be a great interactive community filled with tips, recipes, and support. You can join the on-line community now and until it is up and fully running you will receive a weekly eblast full of good health and fitness information.

Since taking on this program, I have looked at my lifestyle a little closer. I definitely think I could become more committed to living a healthier lifestyle and should drop a few pounds. Honestly, I wasn't too thrilled when I saw myself in this photo. It looks like I drop straight down from my shoulders - yikes, not happy about that.

So, I'm actually going to start using the program I promote. I will be paying better attention to the things I put in my mouth and will be signing up for Jazzercise tomorrow (if I'm going to work out I want it to be fun and perfect timing, tomorrow Jazzercise is holding a 1 Day Special!) To make sure I am accountable and watch what I am doing I am going to start using the Commit To Be Fit Progress Tracker. Sure it will take some commitment, but you need to commit to be fit (hence the name of the program).

I'm hoping that the next time I take a photo at the Commit To Be Fit booth I will not look like I drop straight down from my shoulders and have a little more definition in my waistline.

To be continued . . . . .

Baby Bonanza & Kid's Expo, columbus imPRessions Newest Client

I'm assisting my newest client, Baby Bonanza & Kid Expo, with some PR for their upcoming Expos in Cleveland and Columbus.

Baby Bonanza & Kid's Expo has become one of the largest consumer maternity, baby and kid's shows in the country and specifically focuses on families with children ages 0 - 10 years of age. It's an educational and fun event where attendees can gather a wealth of information on businesses and organizations, enjoy educational seminars and entertainment but also shop for fun items for the family.

Mark You Calendars (more details soon):

Columbus, Ohio

Veterans Memorial, April 10-11,2010

Cleveland, Ohio

Cuyahoga Convention Center, April 24-25, 2010

Baby Bonanza & Kid Expo's new website will be unveiled soon!

The Press Release Makes It Official!

Commit To Be Fit announcement!!

Proud To Announce New Partnership with 10TV and Commit To Be Fit

I am jumping out of my seat excited to announce my new partnership with 10TV Commit To Be Fit. Annie Vian, of Vian Communications, and columbus imPRessions are merging our areas of expertise to breathe new life into the 10TV Commit To Be Fit program.

This seven year old program, lead by the lovely Andrea Cambern, was created because in 2001 Columbus was named the 5th fattest city in America. Andrea and 10TV took this health concern very seriously and created the Commit To Be Fit Program. Working with the Columbus community, last year we were ranked the 19th fittest city by Men’s Fitness Magazine! From one of the fattest to one of the fittest!

Annie and I want to keep that moment going and create new opportunities for the Columbus community. Over the next year, we will work with 10TV and Andrea to take Commit To Be Fit to a new level with more interaction and excitement.

We look forward to the opportunities this new partnership can bring to Columbus!

New Client: Family Promise of Delaware County

A few weeks ago I gave a presentation to the board of Family Promise of Delaware County. This week I was hired to do a small marketing and PR project to help this chapter get started.  I will be working on the "Four M's": 

• Messaging - creating local key messages
  
• Marketing - creating an updated brochure or marketing postcard
  
• Media - creating some awareness in traditional press and social media
  
• Means - creating a few fundraising/sponsorship tools
  

Family Promise is a national organization with 150 affiliates nationwide.  They are an interfaith hospitality network for homeless families. Congregations and volunteers help connect homeless families with services and support like shelter, meals child care, and career training.  

Currently Delaware County has nine host churches, five support churches and a day center signed up and ready to help.  This network will serve as host and will provide meals and overnight accommodations to up to 14 people for a week. They provide beds, transportation, and a day center where families will spend day hours receiving counseling, doing job searches and preparing to move into permanent housing.

In Delaware County the homeless family count is rising.  To help combat this growing problem Family Promise of Delaware County was developed with the assistance of homeless advocacy group, Concerned Citizens Against Homelessness.

Family Promise of Delaware County is in the process of raising funds and accepting in-kind donations for the development of the Network.  They hope to open their doors by the end of summer and will reside at 35 N. Washington Street, Delaware, OH.  Be on the lookout for their local website coming soon.  In the meantime, you can check out the national website here.

Great News From Baby The Planet Expo

A few weeks back we were contacted through Twitter by one of our followers, Baby The Planet Expo.  They needed assistance with media awareness for their upcoming Expo in May and were taking RFP's from various PR groups.  They asked if we would consider submitting an RFP for the job and we jumped at the chance! 

This evening we heard from Baby The Planet Expo.  We are excited to announce that columbus imPRessions was chosen as the PR agency for the job!  We are thrilled to be a part of this incredible event and are anxious to start working on the project.

Be on the lookout for info and posts on Baby The Planet Expo.  Click here for details on the event, for exhibitor and sponsorship info.  There is still time to get involved.

Culinary Table hosting Wellness & Cancer Cooking Classes

Our client, The Culinary Table will be holding Wellness and Cancer Cooking Classes starting January 21st.  Classes will include cooking demonstrations by Brooke Kinsey, chef at The Culinary Table, as well as information on how to make delicious and healthy choices when it comes to feeding yourself and family given by Nancy Kuhel, RN.  

Classes are forming now.  If you'd like to sign up for a class call 614.488.3714 or email info@theculinarytable.com.  Reserve your seat at The Culinary Table today.

Below is an information piece we created with more details.

La Jeune Mariee Bridal Boutique Sample Sale - Mark Your Calendar

We just sent out a mailer to central Ohio soon to be brides notifying them of our client's, La Jeune Mariee Bridal Boutique, Winter Sample Sale.  You are invited too.

Mark your calendar for January 9th and 10th 2009.  Appointments are needed.

Click here for more details

Spirit of Giving at Green Diamond Gallery

With the tough economy charitable giving is down this holiday season.  Yet, our newest client, Green Diamond Gallery, gave over $50,000 to four charities this holiday season.  Benefiting charities include, The Miracle League, Reds Community Fund, Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum and The Make-A-Wish Foundation.

The donation was made possible because of its members.  Through membership and special events a portions of members payments are saved for charitable giving.  Members are a part of the Wright Society and share a fellowship through baseball and philanthropy.  A great way to enjoy your favorite past time and still give back.  Below is a "sneak peak" of the press release that will be distributed to Cincinnati media next week.

Latest Culinary News

We've created an e-newsletter for The Culinary Table.  A monthly enews blast will go out to subscribers with the latest news on cooking classes, seasonal information, recipes and event happenings at the newest venue in town.  Want to get in on the info.  Sign-ups at the bottom of website splash page.  New web site coming soon!

Dear Friends, With great excitement we introduce to you the Culinary Table,  a unique blend of flavors and fragrance solely created for  your memorable occasion.

Pull up a chair this holiday season....

The Culinary Table is an intimate gathering venue and hands-on cooking classroom  built with old world charm and a twist of modern flair.  Bellisari's Catering and  Natural Designs have fused their talents creating unforgettable occasions filled with food,  flowers, family and friends.   Located in Grandview, Ohio, The Culinary Table is a full-service venue with expertise in  elegant food and floral displays.  It is the perfect place for your holiday celebrations,  group events, or corporate functions.  The kids cooking classes will provide fun for children  of all age groups! Reserve your seat at our table.  Contact us at info@theculinarytable.com or  614.488.3714 to plan your beautiful event or cooking class.     Sincerely,   ~ Annette Bellisari Johnson, Owner, The Culinary Table & Bellisari's Catering ~ Regina Prange, Owner, Natural Designs ~ Brooke Kinsey, Executive Chef/ Culinary Instructor ~ Karen Narwicz, Catering Consultant & Event Planner ~ Kelly Dyas, Catering Coordinator

Meet Chef Brooke Kinsey

Powell, Ohio resident and Executive Chef/Culinary Instructor, Brooke Kinsey, brings nine years of professional experience, a distinguished culinary education, and a passionate and cheerful personality to the business. 

Brooke received her education at Johnson and Wales University, and has worked as an executive and personal chef.  She enjoys cooking with seasonal flavors, like apples and pumpkins in the autumn, and comfort food in the winter.  Brooke will be instructing all cooking classes. 

“I am excited about the unique concept Annette (Bellisari) has brought to Grandview.  The Culinary Table is different than anything in Columbus, and I am thrilled to be a part of it.  I envision some beautiful parties and incredible hand-on cooking classes.” 

The Culinary Table uniquely blends flavors and fragrance solely created for your memorable occasion. 

The Culinary Table is an intimate gathering venue and hands-on cooking classroom built with old world charm and a twist of modern flair.  Bellisari’s Catering and Natural Designs have fused their talents creating unforgettable celebrations filled with food, flowers, family and friends. 

Pull up a chair.  To reserve your seat at our table or to sign up for one of our cooking classes call 614.488.3714 or email info@theculinarytable.com.

Stroll For Epilepsy- Delaware Child chosen as Honorary Ambassador

~  If you are a member of the media, please contact us at 614.725.2561 or info@columbusimpressions.com .....
We are fortunate to be spending some time this Friday afternoon with a wonderful Delaware family we recently met, named the Raineys.  Their youngest daughter, Amanda has been chosen as the Honorary Ambassador for the Stroll For Epilepsy coming up in January.  The Rainey family consists of mom (Maryann), dad (Matt), eight-year-old Sara, four-year-old Zachary, and six-year-old Amanda.  

The local media has been invited to their Delaware home for a chance to meet Amanda, her family, and Irene Baird, the Executive Director of the Epilepsy Foundation of Central Ohio. Should be a great photo opportunity!!! 

Amanda, who has suffered from seizures since she was six months old, has a big job ahead of her as the Honorary Child Ambassador. The Rainey family has been involved with the Epilepsy Foundation Stroll for five years and are thrilled to advocate, raise funds and help in every way for this year’s event. Matt Rainey, a Market Operations Support Analyst for AEP, got his company involved and they are the presenting sponsor this year.

Members of the media are welcome to contact us for more information! info@columbusimpressions.com or 614.725.2561

Learn . . Love . . Live - Cancer Cooking Classes

Enjoy cooking?

Starting next month our client, The Culinary Table (located in Grandview) will be hosting monthly Cancer Cooking Classes.   These classes teach nutrition for caregivers, family, patients, or anyone wanting to have fun and learn through cooking.

For more information contact info@theculinarytable.com.

Welcoming New Client Epilepsy Foundation

We are pleased to welcome the Epilepsy Foundation of Central Ohio to the columbus imPRession's family!

We will work with the local chapter on the Stroll for Epilepsy Event - creating PR opportunities, as well as working with a graphic designer to create event marketing pieces.

We look forward to working with this fine organization.

Cross-Eyed But Smiling

In creating marketing concepts for a client today we spent quite a bit of time searching for the perfect font.   Our eyes may be crossed but we found a couple good sites to get some free fonts that are worth passing on:

dafont

fontspace

simply the best font

Tons of good fonts to choose from.  We're smiling and hopefully when our client opens their email box today they will be smiling too.

Breast Cancer Patient Cooking Classes

We are creating a marketing piece for our client today. The Culinary Table will be hosting and teaching cooking classes for Breast Cancer Patients and/or Caregivers. What a great way to start their business, give back to a wonderful cause, and hopefully get some media attention during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

We are currently working on finalizing the details and will have the marketing piece and a media advisory soon! This will make a great visual story for all health reporters in the Columbus area! More to come soon!

La Jeune Mariee

Our second newest client is Worthington bridal boutique, La Jeune Mariee. La Jeune Mariee is an intimate bridal boutique featuring wedding gowns from several premiere designers. Owner, Lindsay prides her business on giving each bride-to-be personal attention since individual appointments are made. You definitely feel extra special shopping for your bridal gown of your dreams!

Having new ownership, La Jeune Mariee is looking to create awareness and a new web site to match their brand image. We are exciting to assist Lindsay and La Jeune Mariee with PR and build their marketing image! We will provide updates as they come!