In this episode of Front Porch Radio, host Julie Wilder interviews Dana Marie Roquemore, the founder of The Dinner Party Project. Dana shares her journey from fashion show styling to creating an impactful initiative aimed at fostering real human connections. They discuss the evolving dynamics of social gathering, the importance of face-to-face interactions, and the rising sense of isolation in today's society. The episode also explores the different facets of Dana's work, including Trusted Circles and Women Lead Orlando. Together, they reflect on the joys and challenges of entrepreneurship, the significance of intentional dining experiences, and the value of genuine friendship.
00:00 Welcome to Front Porch Radio
00:14 Introducing Dana Marie Rockmore
00:20 The Dinner Party Project: Origins and Evolution
00:52 Impact of the Pandemic on Social Connections
02:02 The Joy of Gathering and Real Friendships
05:41 From Clothing Swaps to Dinner Parties
06:44 The Magic of Intentional Dinner Parties
15:11 Creating Meaningful Conversations
16:50 The Power of Connection and Curiosity
22:11 Facilitating Conversations at Dinner Parties
28:29 Success Stories and Serendipity
31:58 Reflecting on 10 Years of The Dinner Party Project
32:26 Balancing Different Lifestyles
32:40 The Realities of Entrepreneurship
34:18 Challenges and Rewards of Event Planning
37:00 Collaborative Dinner Events
38:49 Women Lead Orlando
44:53 Trusted Circles: Building Deeper Connections
48:28 Local Favorites and Recommendations
55:56 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell
About Our Guest
Dana Marie Roquemore is a social entrepreneur who went from being a stylist for fashion shows, personal wardrobe consultant and event planner, to being the creator of an innovative community concept that took Orlando, FL by storm. In 2014, Dana created The Dinner Party Project, a food-focused social experiment that invites eight strangers to share incredible food, interesting conversation and fantastic company. This original concept has grown to Private Custom Dinners, Corporate Gatherings and Women's Leadership Events. She uses guest chefs to create amazing food, but the real richness is in the connections that happen during these dinners. Her vision of gathering the community has also expanded to large scale Dinner Parties (up to 200 Guests,) Private and Corporate Events and Custom Branded Events!
Dana’s Recommended Reading on Bookshop.org
Find her online: @_thedinnerpartyproject_ & thedinnerpartyproject.co
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