It is Tuesday and I feel like I have finally dug myself out from the pile of paperwork, phone calls and follow-up from exhibiting at last week’s NASFT Fancy Food Show. This summer show was my 7th year exhibiting with Ciao Bella. I have to be honest; I really never get tired of the trade shows. The show is technically an industry event, not open to the general public, but I find the show an extremely useful source for consumer insights. The show is full of retailer buyers and employees, as well as thousands of specialty food exhibitors. Let me tell you we were a popular booth! After all, if your feet hurt or your voice is sore from talking– why not eat Ciao Bella? Our Key Lime Gelato was the biggest hit of the day – sealed with a lip puckering sofi™ Gold Award from the NASFT.
It is interesting because the exhibitors and attendees can occasionally be apologetic about asking for a sample – even at the Fancy Food Show – sometimes because it has been their 3rd trip in one day. My response has always been the same every time I am asked. “You are the buyer I really want to know. You are the one who does or will actually buy Ciao Bella gelato and sorbet in the store!” Guaranteed to deliver a smile and a happy consumer who was reminded the power is in their dollar. (note to reader -if you really want to buy a product at a local retailer, ask to speak to the buyer. You have more influence than you may realize)
To Die For
On to the REAL reason for my post. I absolutely fell in love with the cheese from Cypress Grove Chevre. Truffle Tremor™ is to die for. The classic flavor of truffle meets the velvety perfection of ripened goat milk cheese. Earthy, elegant, and sophisticated, it’s sure to make even the most distinguished taste buds shake! I might not be buying cheese for Ciao Bella, but I will buy this cheese for my friends and family. In fact I already introduced them to it at a 4th of July picnic. Check it out. They have a few new loyal consumers here at Ciao Bella.
Not only do they make incredible goat cheese, their general manager Pam and I hit it off, she was awesome. She chatted me up as I graciously ate her award winning cheese. I am pickier these days about what I eat at the show, but this was worth the every bite.
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