Since big names sell tickets and create buzz, one of the biggest challenges for any event planner is to build the right lineup of speakers and presenters.
When Momofuku Milk Bar chef Christina Tosi received an invitation to participate in the Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival, she wasn't sure she could leave New York during the busiest time of year. What convinced Tosi? The chef—known for milk and soft-serve ice cream in various flavors of sugary cereal— said she couldn't say no after festival organizer David Sabin sent her marshmallows picked from a box of Lucky Charms.
The move worked, and Tosi created treats for the fest's opening-night dessert party and led a session where children made cake truffles.
"We have a fun, casual approach to desserts," Tosi said, "so we choose events where that can shine."
The seventh annual culinary gathering, held December 13 to 17 at venues throughout Palm Beach County, drew other big names who participated in events from a casual oceanfront cookout at host hotel Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach to a sophisticated multicourse meal from the Breakers Palm Beach executive chef Jeff Simms and master sommelier Virginia Philip.
Here's a look at the decor, entertainment, and, of course, the food at the fest.
