I recently had the opportunity to attend the Getting Gorgeous With Degree event in New York City. Developed by Audrey McClellan and Vera Sweeney, the event provided an opportunity for women bloggers to connect with brand representatives. I had never attended anything like this, so I did not know what to expect. My interest as a food blogger was piqued immediately when I passed the check-in table. I was handed a mimosa made with Simply Orange orange juice. Not a bad way to kick off a media event, don’t you think?
My next stop was with representatives from Weight Watchers (they must have seen the food blogger coming a mile away) who were handing out information about their new Points Plus program. It was interesting to hear how the company has redesigned its program to highlight healthier food choices, and they have lots of resources designed to help frequent restaurant-goers like me make sensible choices. I like that a lot.
Armed with my new knowledge of healthy choices, I headed straight for the BJ’s table (of course) to chat with Chef Dan Barash and other representatives from Moe’s Southwest Grill. Moe’s and BJ’s are partnering to introduce a line of Moe’s dips, which will be available for sale at BJ’s locations throughout New Jersey. I tried all 4 dips: the White Bean, Mild Salsa, Chunky Guacamole and Spicy Guacamole Hummus (hopefully the Weight Watchers people weren’t looking). Each one delivered a nice kick and I loved the way that the cilantro and other spices stood out without being too overpowering.
Life is never complete without dessert, right? (I know they’re “Watching” me). Fortunately, my insane love of all things chocolate was kept in check by the opportunity to sample richly frosted goodies from Georgetown Cupcakes. The name of this cupcake shop may be familiar to you if you watch “DC Cupcakes” on TLC. The cupcake table was very popular, and I have never seen so many people inhale cupcakes so quickly!
In addition to sampling terrific food, attendees were treated to hair styling and make-up applications from mobile styling company Hair Room Service and Lifetime Moms, great product samples, and giveaways. All attendees got a $100 Restaurant.com gift certificate (which I can’t wait to use at one of our great New Jersey restaurants). I also won a $25 BJ’s gift card from a Twitter contest held during the event, as well as a $100 American Express gift certificate from the nice folks at Hanes Comfort. Sweet!! Thanks to the Getting Gorgeous With Degree team and the wonderful blogger community at Philly Social Media Moms for including me! An outline of the sponsor list from Getting Gorgeous with Degree can be found here:
Beth Christian subsisted primarily on cheeseburgers and liverwurst sandwiches during childhood and refused to try most new foods. Her culinary horizons were expanded during her college days in Schenectady, New York, where she learned the joys of trying slow-simmered Italian dishes, Szechuan cuisine, and everything in between. When not engaged in the practice of law in Monmouth County, Beth is busy scouting out interesting restaurants, farmer’s markets and food purveyors near her home in Burlington County. Beth’s primary dining sidekick is her husband John, but she also enjoys having her daughter Meghan, son Michael and her wonderful friends come along for the ride. Email Beth at BChristian@JerseyBites.com
Disclosure: Attendees of this event were provided product samples and complimentary products.
