Interesting Event - Dinner for 8 - Gathering for a Cause

l am always of the lookout for my next Interesting Event and this one just happened to be a “Pop-Up” venue that absolutely took my breath away. Who would expect to be invited to have dinner on a sidewalk in the middle of town, in the middle of Wisconsin. Here is the back story, my friend Randy Verhasselt, owns Evolutions in Design in Wausau, WI, a flower and gift shop that is absolutely spectacular. This past weekend was the Festival of the Arts weekend in Wausau and Evolutions in Design’s twentieth anniversary. As we were browsing through his beautiful store, he happened to mention that he wanted to put together a Dinner for 8 that night at the table he had on display outside his store. As you can see by the photos, this is no typical table, it has flowers cascading from the centerpiece, vintage china and glassware; the entire venue was a feast for the eyes. It did not take more than a second and we said “yes” we are in for dinner. “Be back at 5:30 was his parting comment” and we headed on our way enjoying the sights and sounds of the Festival of the Arts. The portion of the invite I have not mentioned is the entire proceeds from the dinner with matching gifts from Evolutions in Design and Back When Cafe were a charitable gift to The Women’s Community of Wausau. When we arrived, the festival had closed, the streets had a few walkers, but the venue was ours. Eight strangers who quickly became friends gathered around this spectacular table. One glance at the menu and I knew we were in for a treat. Jolene Lucci, the owner/chef at Back When Cafe, a very popular neighboring restaurant on the block, had prepared the menu. I knew we were in for an evening to remember and I have to say it exceeded all of my expectations. Great food, new interesting friends, a venue that was absolutely beautiful on a lovely evening, a donation to a great cause, and a caring and vibrant community.