SOMETIMES.. you don't need a cast of thousands
Sometimes… you don't need a cast of thousands to create an epic event. Just a maverick with a vision (take Tim Smit for example with Eden), a few really good friends who are willing to listen and help you because you’re you and some adventurers who are up for something different and prepared to go along with whatever is thrown up……figuratively speaking!
I remember the cold February day when I looked out at The Salty and imagined a summer candlelit dinner attended by beautiful people against the backdrop of Dartmoor with the sun setting across the shingle and sea in the Teign river estuary. It’s a magical landscape totally governed by the tide – a secret under water land that only admits you on its terms. I’ve always been fascinated with tides and the power of the sea and all these things combined to arouse my curiosity on how I might achieve the ultimate dinner.
Once it had taken hold, it was obvious to me that anywhere could be OPEN for Dinner and it gave rise to this website and the idea of encouraging others to live out their fantasy meals.
2010, as far as I can see, has been a year marked by the rise in gatherings where food, people, drama and fun are all key elements. We’ve simply extended our natural inclinations towards eccentricity, nostalgia and amateur dramatics to include food and, in so doing, have created our own sets (as in the theatre and film) and this year, unlike any before, its OK.
Suddenly, we’ve been given permission to rediscover our imaginations and act out our own scenes; exploring and experiencing all the possibilities, setting aside doubts or embarrassment, gathering our community around us. To dress up or dress down, to be quirky and individual and….to unashamedly enjoy every single soupcon of it! In a way, you could say we’re created our own celebrity moments.
As for my stunt on The Salty, I’d often wondered how I would feel afterwards. I woke up laughing as the day replayed itself and I recalled a series of the most surreal happenings; Hugo and Tony trying to row equipment across with flaying oars, the cooker getting stuck on the shingle, the chef going to the wrong beach, Toby in the inflatable going round in circles with 8 bistro chairs stacked precariously, the tent crew raising our beloved 1940’s marquee in the wind. Above all, I remember the expressions, the laughter and the enjoyment of the guests… and how they all looked. Amazing!
We got our sunset and candlelit dinner, our champagne and the beautiful people. For those few brief hours, the world was at bay and we were the stars in our own glamorous production.
And, whilst we definitely weren’t a cast of thousands, I would like to thank (in true Oscar winning style) Stephen, Toby, Hugo, Tony, Bruce, Brian, Giselle, Helena, Lesley, Jan, Guest Chef Emily from Devon Home Cook, Anne-Marie, Chris and Rob. WE DID IT!
Who wouldn't want to be a maverick when you have friends like these.........
Sandie x
PS - a big thank you to the RNLI who were on standby. Well, that is everyone except the chief helmsman who was dining! A donation is on its way!