TECHmunch is the ultimate geek day for foodies that made its way to New York at the Astor Center. It is a traveling food conference that provides the local food community (especially bloggers) the tools to create great content, turn their love of food into a profit, and great networking. It was an event for food bloggers, cookbook writers, foodies, and hungry people produced by Babette Pepaj founder of Bakespace.com with local producer Nichelle Stephens of Cupcakes Take The Cake. Some of the sponsors for the delicious day included Chobani, KitchenAid, Harvard Common Press, ‘wichcraft, and Brooklyn Brewery. For me it was like being a pig in sh*t! Nom nom nom!
The way the day runs at TECHmunch is packing in information in small short sessions which leaves it open for tons of information in a relaxed atmosphere. Individual speakers had about ten minutes whereas a panel would run for about twenty to twenty five minutes.
One of my favorite sessions was Chris Pearson who gave a presentation on website design. He showed us examples of a good website and gave us great info on what to think about when putting together a site. I could have listened to him speak all day. I also loved the panel on “How to Attract Awesome Brands and Build Partnerships” with Jessica Randazza from Digitas, Emily Schildt from Chobani, and Babette Pepaj from Bakespace.com moderated by Erik Deutsch from ExcelPr Group. It is always good to know what brands are thinking when it comes to bloggers. The key thing to remember is each brand is different and approach them on a personal level. Also know what can you bring to the brand.
TECHmunch NYC 2011 from YolandaShoshana on Vimeo.
Lunch was delish with sandwiches and salads coming from ‘wichcraft. Seriously, it is hard to go wrong with their sandwiches. And who knew they made salads? Especially salads that are were good, they were fabulously fresh.
Jacques Torres was supposed to be at TECHmunch, but he had to fly off to LA for a gig. He did manage to have trays of his chocolate chips cookies in the house. Can you say orgasmic? I already knew how fabulous the cookies were so you know I grabbed me a few. I loved watching other people take a bite; the first thing out of their mouth was "OMG". There were many other desserts around from cupcakes, macroons, to whoopie pies.
Chobani hooked us up with snacks during a break. Dips and hummus made out of the yogurt, which was cool because it showed off diverse ways to use yogurt. As if that wasn’t enough? There was a networking soiree at the end with mixed drinks with Four Roses Bourbon and Brooklyn Gin.
It was a great conference. Insightful information and yummy eats, who could ask for anything more? I swear I now need to go on a diet!
