Whilst I have a moment of peace in the midst of a number of important projects I am involved with I thought now was a time to reflect on 2013 so far. Its been a bit of a roller-coaster (trying to avoid the word “journey” – ooops!) ride.
The year started with an event for 80 people on the 5th of January. The events I have catered for since then have involved businesses and private events from 40th birthdays, to 80th birthdays and many more. It has been fun planning the menus, working with the clients and getting great feedback from all of these clients.
I have also embarked on a teaching career at the WI Cookery School, with a session coming up on the 30th August which I am looking forward to. Along with this the regular broadcasting slot on BBC Radio Oxford is still keeping me busy as well as the writing for HC/OX and Pick Magazines. This writing thing is a lovely challenge and one that I enjoy doing battle with.
My other major project – Wallingford Food Festival – had its third outing this year and was bigger and better again. Spread over two days it had good weather (again!), loyal and great sponsors, plus over 45 producers selling beers, wines, coffee, bread, cheese, chillies, oils, vinegars, Brazilian, Spanish, German, French, Italian food, meats, cakes, jams and so much more. Just proving that we have a lot to be thankful about here in Oxfordshire with the wide range of food and drink producers established in the county. I am looking forward to next years festival – for which the dates will be announced soon. Look out for the news on www.wallingfordfoodfestival.co.uk
Wonderful Audiences!
Great Demos!
Great Food!
Alongside all of this I am working on two new projects which will hopefully keep me very busy for the rest of the year. The first is a new website for local food and drink producers. I hope that we will see this go live in the next 3-4 months. The other project is a new wine bar opening in the Castle in central Oxford. I am proud to be asked to be involved in this and provide a large part of the menu that will be on offer with the fabulous wines selected by Alistair Cooper, my wine expert partner on the BBC radio spot. I will keep you posted on developments of both these projects and hopefully you will be able to participate in one or both of them yourselves!
On reflection, I have thoroughly enjoyed this year so far. I have been lucky with the people I have met and worked with. I have had some interesting obstacles thrown in the path of some of these projects but nothing has dented my enthusiasm in getting the job done. So to everyone who has been involved with me, helped me and supported me can I say thank you! To my clients and customers I would also like to say thank you because without your support I could not do what I do, and continue to enjoy doing it with a passion. Here is to the rest of 2013 and beyond!
