Those of you who know me know what dining means to me – not just food but the act of gathering and sharing a meal, carefully and lovingly made. Some of my fondest (and earliest) memories are bound by the table: large family gatherings, potlucks with friends, themed date night dinners, the introduction of a dish to a new friend, the adoption of a recipe that goes on to become an old favorite… Ultimately, I believe food is meant to be prepared with care and love, to be shared, to tell a story (several stories, in fact), to provide a taste of place, to gather people, and to serve as the conduit for conversation, collaboration and community.

So, when I discovered Makers Meals last year, I just had to learn more. Intended to celebrate the relationship between food and community, Makers Meals brings together local makers, creators and champions of community for one-night-only experiences centered around the table. Pulled by this mission and by the desire to connect during peak pandemic times, I reached out to @makersmeals on Instagram – paving the way for a nearly year-long collaboration and a heart full of community connection.

Fast-forward to countless conversations, dozens of collaborators, hours upon hours of planning and a couple of weeks that tested our spirits (we are, after all, still living amid a global pandemic), and alas – there we were counting down the minutes ‘til our sold-out dinner’s grand kickoff. Yes, last night, I had the opportunity to co-host the first-ever Makers Meals in my current home of Virginia Beach – nearly a year since I first met Amber Breitenberg, founder of Makers Meals, and began dreaming up what it might look like to host one of her beautifully inspiring, community-driven Makers Meals right here in VB.

Our Summer Supper fittingly took place within The Alley, a collective of local artisans tucked away in the city’s ViBe Creative District. The evening kicked off with a panel discussion led by yours truly and centered on the evolution of Virginia Beach’s makers community. The all-lady panel was made up of Kate Pittman (Executive Director, ViBe Creative District), Kendall Chandler (Education Coordinator, MOCA), Stephanie Dietz (Owner & Chef, The Pink Dinghy), and Kim Higgins (Owner & Maker, Made Mod VB), and provided insights on VB’s distinct culture, accomplishments and areas of opportunities. The common thread? The heightened role of connection and collaboration in growing community.

Now, let’s get to the food, shall we? Few people are as passionate about Virginia Beach cuisine as beloved Chef Barry Smith, with whom I’ve had the pleasure to collaborate extensively in my seven years living here. When he said yes to being our chef, I knew we’d be in for a treat. In true Barry style, the evening’s multi-course menu was a delectable reflection (and celebration!) of southern Virginia as the end of summer draws near. On the menu: some familiar staples with nods to some of Chef Barry’s most cherished coastal Virginia flavors, including Lambert Shellfish oysters on the half shell and freshly picked bluefin crab, and a plentitude of colorful Pungo-grown produce (Cromwell’s) and even fresh pork from Cartwright Family Farms.

Delicious flavors aside, an equally delightful ingredient was provided by the local makers who helped create the evening’s locally rooted ambiance in a variety of colorful ways, including:

• The Pink Dinghy crafted the evening’s signature cocktail, Makers Crush, and poured an array of natural wines by Native Selections

• Gather Floral’s beautiful flower scapes provided an idyllic balance of beach and boho vibes

• Jars of Dust’s stunning ceramic creations delightfully lined our communal table

• North End Bag Co.’s elegantly and sturdily designed aprons worn by the kitchen team

• Three Ships Coffee provided single-origin coffee at dessert time (and sent guests home with beans of their own)

• Crunchy Hydration offered a refreshing, non-alcoholic option on a very hot summer night

• Pilgrim Bread’s wood-fired baguettes paired deliciously with whipped butter

And many others!

While there were many highlights throughout the summer-kissed evening, what stands out most to me is that 44 people from across the city showed up for an event for which they had no expectations, simply to support their community. Some knew one another, others didn’t; some came with a friend, others alone. Gathered around a long communal table built on collaboration, strangers connected, conversed and celebrated – and that deserves a grand toast!

If there was ever any doubt of the power of a dinner table, last night was a testament that amazing things can be cooked up when we carve out time to gather around it.

A huge GRACIAS to everyone who played a role in helping us bring VB’s inaugural Makers Meals to life. Your enthusiasm, support and faith kept our team going and set the tone for a magical evening.

I am especially honored to have been able to collaborate with Amber, Barry and Sarah G. Bartley (an amazing illustrator, photographer and friend) in making last night a reality. I am so inspired by what people can accomplish when they lead with heart. ♥️

To many more conversations and collaborations to come. And to community, always. Cheers!

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As co-host of this event, I contributed communications support, media relations services and community partnerships. I also penned the words that appear on all event collateral pieces, including the menu. All photos and design pieces are courtesy of Sarah G. Bartley.