The Affair Entertains More Than Ideas

Combining the creative forces of The Sample Circuit and The Twin Cities Chocolate Extravaganza, The Affair was born. A two-day, 365-degree view of all things home entertaining-related, it has become the most comprehensive such local expo and celebration. This year, it takes place November 7-8.

With several gourmet food and wine-related events, contests, programs, and demos—all designed to educate and inspire the home entertainer inside all of us—the centerpiece is the not-to-be-missed Expo.

Taking place at the Minneapolis Convention Center, Hall E, The Expo features a wide range of exhibitors showcasing everything from luxury foods, chocolates, and gifts for the host/hostess to wine, liquor, and other specialty beverages. Plus, it offers a wide range of services from caterers, personal chefs, and other party professionals for the home entertainer who would rather entertain than prepare.

Attendees will find three different stages that spotlight the ever-changing array of hands-on and how-to programs throughout the day. Each stage offers something unique.

The Star Tribune Taste Kitchen will host private chefs and caterers, as they share tricks, tips, and recipes to take meals and menus to the next level. These experts will provide secrets on choosing the perfect foods, and timing them to present the perfect entrance.

The Entertainment Stage will focus on the often-overlooked elements of home entertaining: entertainment. Here, everyone will get a chance to learn how to set the mood from the perfect playlist; select unique host/hostess gifts; and create the perfect, trendy tabletops.

No party is complete without the best fashions and accessories for the host/hostess, so the Lifestyle Stage is the site for “Fashion Meets Confection.” It’s a show where design students from the University of Minnesota, The Art Institutes of Minnesota, and Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts join forces to transform edible objects into some of the sweetest fashions ever to hit the runway—literally.

This is one expo not to be missed by anyone who loves to host a party or get-together, but needs just a little help doing so.

The Affair
Nov. 7-8
Minneapolis Convention Center
1301 2nd Ave. S., Mpls.
Hotel Ivy
201 11th St. S., Mpls.
www.theaffairmpls.com