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Culinary Connections:
An Exclusive Networking Experience

The Starbucks Reserve® Roastery in Seattle’s Capitol Hill offered an unforgettable backdrop for the kickoff of the Northwest Event Show 2025—inviting planners and industry leaders to experience the venue’s magic firsthand. From baristas crafting espresso martinis at the immersive mixology bar to a private chef curating an elegant seated dinner, every detail was designed to showcase the Roastery’s capacity for intimate, high-end gatherings. Guests raised their glasses in a celebratory toast as each course was unveiled, capturing the energy and sophistication that define private events at this iconic space. This video experience brought the Roastery to life not just as a coffee destination, but as an inspired venue for connection, creativity, and celebration.

 

Credits:

Videography: Jet Gerbier
Video Editor: Marques Dupree
Film Production Agency: Dupree, Inc
Event Producer: Olivia Neal Howell
Talent Agency: The Olivia Neal Experience, Inc (T.O.N.E.)
Location: The Starbucks Reserve® Roastery – Capitol Hill, Seattle, WA
Partners: Northwest Event Show, Starbucks

What is Culinary Connections?

Culinary Connections is a private dining experience designed exclusively for meeting & event planners to foster meaningful networking. The night before NWES, event professionals will gather for an intimate, hosted dinner at one of Seattle’s top restaurants or a premier Eastside location. These curated experiences offer the perfect setting to connect, share insights, and build meaningful industry relationships.

  • A Seat at the Table – Enjoy a thoughtfully curated prix-fixe meal at a premium dining location.
  • Authentic Connections – Engage in deeper, more meaningful conversations with fellow event professionals.
  • Insights & Inspiration – Gain exclusive insights from a sponsored host presentation, designed to spark ideas and discussion.
  • Personalized Experience – We’ll match you with the right group based on a short questionnaire, ensuring relevant connections and discussions.

Choose Your Culinary Experience

At registration, select your ideal setting:
  • Seattle – Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant dining scene, featuring award-winning chefs and dynamic atmospheres.
  • Eastside – Enjoy a refined culinary experience in Bellevue, Kirkland, or surrounding areas, known for upscale dining and intimate settings.

Wherever you choose, expect an evening that sets the stage for new partnerships, collaborations, and friendships before the big event.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is there a fee to register for this?

The $25 fee helps cover event coordination, reservation guarantees, and ensures that attendees are fully committed. This allows us to provide an exclusive, high-quality experience while keeping the overall cost low for participants.

What does the $25 fee include?

Your registration covers everything—a reserved seat at an exclusive dining experience, a brief talk from a sponsor, and dinner and drinks at the event, all hosted. The fee helps secure your commitment and ensures a high-quality experience for all attendees.

Is the $25 refundable if I can’t attend?

No, the $25 registration fee is non-refundable. Since these are small-group dinners with limited seating, we cannot offer refunds for cancellations.

Is it okay if I change my mind and don’t attend?

We ask that you only register if you are fully committed to attending. These gatherings are intentionally small (12-20 attendees), so every seat matters. If something urgent comes up and you absolutely cannot attend, please notify us as soon as possible so we can attempt to fill your spot.

How do you select my location?

During registration, you will choose between two location options:

📍 Seattle – Ideal for those wanting a downtown experience.
📍 Eastside – Located in Bellevue, Kirkland, or the surrounding areas.

We will place you at a restaurant within your selected area and send you full details prior to the event.

How do you select the group I attend with?

To create the most valuable experience, we use a brief questionnaire to match attendees based on factors such as industry, job role, interests, and event goals. Our goal is to pair you with professionals you’ll enjoy meaningful conversations with and who may align with your networking goals.

Will I know in advance where I’ll be dining?

Yes! Once final group placements are made, we will send you an email with your restaurant location, group details, and event logistics so you can plan accordingly.

Can I request to be in a group with a colleague or friend?

To create the best networking experience, we intentionally mix up attendees so you can connect with new industry peers. While we understand the desire to stay with familiar faces, colleagues and friends will be placed in different groups to maximize networking opportunities.

What if I already registered for NWES? How do I add this to my registration?

If you’ve already registered for NWES but want to attend Culinary Connections, you can easily add it to your registration! Simply log into your NWES registration portal and modify your registration to include the Culinary Connections dinner. If you need assistance, contact our support team at [email protected]

Can I attend Culinary Connections if I am not registered for NWES?

Culinary Connections is an exclusive event for NW Event Show attendees. If you haven’t registered for NWES yet, you’ll have the option to add the dinner experience to your registration when you sign up for the show. If you’re already registered, you can modify your registration to include Culinary Connections.

To register, please go to https://nweventshow.com/tickets/

What should I bring?

Just yourself, your appetite, and a willingness to connect! You may also want to bring business cards or have your LinkedIn QR code ready for easy networking.