FAQS

 

TIME COMMITMENT
The TableTribes Picnic framework has been designed to minimize effort and maximize impact for everyone involved. For minimal stress and efficient planning, we recommend giving yourself 6-7 weeks for the entire process. This includes time spent filling out the application.

TableTribes helps guide the entire process with a thorough set of tools, resources and checklists. Here’s the countdown:

WEEKS 7-4
Majority of the work for a Planning Committee participant is done during this time, which is when you contact your networks and go through some of the logistical outreach. We estimate about 2 hrs a week (max) during this time per person.

WEEKS 4-2
We estimate about 1 hr a week per person. This is when you start sharing the details of the Picnic with the public at large.

WEEK 1-DAY OF THE PICNIC
There may be some last minute details that need to be taken care of, but these should be a minimal burden if everyone does their part.

THINGS EXPECTED OF PLANNING COMMITTEE MEMBERS
The TableTribes Picnic framework has been designed to minimize effort and maximize impact for everyone involved. This is the power of sharing social resources among several people. Each member should contribute to the effort in a tangible way that moves the planning process forward.

Duties should be divided among the Planning Committee, and could include a minimum of the following:

• BRAINSTORM
Explore ways to approach the topic. The topic must reflect the spirit of the TableTribes Picnic Series: inclusive, multidisciplinary, and driven by the power of authentic relationship building.

• COLLABORATORS
Come up with a list of potential Collaborators. This is an opportunity to engage with people outside of your typical circles in a fun and productive way.

• OUTREACH
The planning effort includes outreach to local sponsors, guests, Collaborators, and media to participate.

• LOGISTICS
Assist with securing a venue and other logistical elements like food and drink.

• CONVERSATION
Help structure & facilitate conversation at the event. This should feel organic and conversational for the overall aim of dialogue and interaction among all the participants.

INFORMATION FOR DISCUSSION COLLABORATORS
We believe that quality conversation is the foundation of all authentic relationship building. After the topic of exploration has been selected out of a fortune cookie, a diverse group of 3-5 Discussion Collaborators is invited to help guide the dialogue.

The goal is to break down any sense of hierarchy, and create a space where people feel safe to share their thoughts without judgment. Each Collaborator should be aware that all participants are responsible for contributing to the flow of the conversation, and making sure each guest feels comfortable and engaged.

COLLABORATORS DO NOT NEED TO PREPARE ANYTHING. THEY ARE ENCOURAGED TO EAT, DRINK, AND BE MERRY. THERE WILL BE NO PRESENTATIONS, POWER POINTS, STAGES, PODIUMS OR DESIGNATED HIERARCHY OF SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT VS GUEST.

The final result should be organic and conversational, and feel as comfortable as if you were at home among friends. The reason why Discussion Collaborators are selected is because their perspectives to the topic are informed by their personal experiences.

INFORMATION FOR FOOD/DRINK COLLABORATORS
Top local chefs and bartenders or sommeliers can contribute their perspective of the topic through food and drink. When possible, Planning Committees will try to showcase emerging talent.

Food and drinks should be creative and elevated, but minimal. More details can be found in the Manual.

IS THIS A SALON?
A RESOUNDING NO. The use of food and drink to facilitate dialogue and conversation has been used since the beginning of time. Our references pull from the spirit of the ancient Roman forum and 18th century British coffeehouse culture, rather than the 17th/18th century French salon.

Our aim is to break down perceived social hierarchies and create a public space where people of different perspectives and backgrounds can share a universally human experience. This is an important priority throughout the entire process, from the beginning when Planning Committee members meet for dinner until the end of their final Picnic.