ECEP Member Contribution
How to Immerse Guests in Connection and Discovery
At Butler’s Pantry, we believe that a great event is more than just what’s served on the plate -- it’s about the way it makes you feel, the atmosphere that surrounds you, and the memorable moments that linger long after the last dish is cleared. Recently, we had the pleasure of hosting a creating a catered menu for all the senses for a unique event for the ECHO (Engage, Champion, Harness, Opportunity) Collective at our venue, 18Rails, where we designed a menu that brought the senses to life.
The ECHO Collective, a group dedicated to creating empowering spaces for women to connect, collaborate, and amplify their voices, inspired us to create an experience that would leave a lasting impression and more importantly, keep the conversation going. We drew from our passion for food, art, and storytelling to transform a traditional networking event into an interactive, multi-sensory journey.
Upon arrival, each guest collected a custom name badge that highlighted one of the senses. This subtle notation created small groups of attendees that would experience the sensory journey together, engaging in thought-provoking questions at each turn. Every bite or sip was carefully curated to engage a different sense, immersing guests in an atmosphere of connection and discovery.
A cocktail topped a catered menu for all the senses
One of the evening’s most talked-about demonstrations came from our Director of Beverage, Ryan Manka, who showcased the sense of hearing with a mesmerizing cocktail creation technique. To craft a Cucumber Mint Margarita like no other, he began by pouring the cocktail ingredients into a Tibetan sound bowl. With the room completely silent, he circled the rim of the bowl with a felt stick, producing vibrations that naturally stirred the liquid in smooth, rhythmic waves. As the room listened in awe, Ryan explained how sound waves can shape the cocktail’s flow, enhancing the experience long before a sip is taken.
From there, he transferred the mixture into an ice shaker, double-strained it into a glass, and finished with a flourish—smacking fresh mint leaves between his hands to release their oils and add a fragrant top note to the drink. The audience was entranced by how the creation of a simple cocktail became a true sensory performance.
The five senses were activated throughout the evening. Here’s a look at the complete sensory menu:
Sight: Savory Goat Cheese Cheesecake A visual delight featuring delicate layers and vibrant garnishes, enticing the eye before each bite.
Smell: Smoked Salmon Swiss Roll Served under a glass dome, this dish was revealed with a dramatic lift, allowing a cloud of aromatic, smoke to waft over the table.
Sound: Cucumber Mint Margarita With its meditative creation, this cocktail captivated the audience with the gentle hum of the sound bowl.
Taste: Eggs & Toast Lollipops An unexpected take on a breakfast classic, these playful lollipops packed a burst of rich flavors in a small bite.
Touch: Individual To-Go Box of Sweets The boxes were printed with contact information and a prompt to "Keep in TOUCH."
From start to finish, the evening was designed to surprise, delight, and engage. As guests departed, they received a custom party favor that read, “We sense a connection! Thank you for attending this ECHO Collective gathering. Let’s continue to MAKE WAVES.”
Comments