Hosts: Melissa Lynn Oddo (deMelis Atelier & Stitched Collective) Matthew Banever (Bards Clothing)

Summary:

In this heartfelt episode of The Fabric of America, we (Melissa and Matt) sit down with Kristiann Vargas, an inspiring chef and the mind behind Distinctive Ideas at Auerfarm. Together, we explore the power of food to bring communities together, support local farms, and create lasting memories. Kristiann shares her journey as a business owner and caterer, her challenges, and the importance of grounding herself in community connections, both personal and professional. This episode dives deep into what it means to nourish not only ourselves but also the very fabric of our local community.

PHOTO: Distinctive Ideas

Outfits:

Kristiann –

• Dress – an oldie, but a goodie
• Sunglasses – Target

Melissa – 

• Shirt – Versache wanabe from Creative Consignment
• Jeans – Express from Pennywise Consignments
• Shoes – Versache
• Earrings – Versache – Vestiaire Collective
• Ziti Necklace – Grandmothers
• Ankle Bracelet permanent jewelry – Stay True Body Piercing

Matt – 

• Sportcoat – Bards, dragho fabric
• Button Down Shirt – Bards
• Slacks – American Woolen
• Socks – United Way
• Shoes – Mezlan

Key Topics Discussed:

• Creating Meaningful Experiences: Kristiann describes her unique dining events, from intimate date nights to large gatherings, where people can unwind, enjoy farm-fresh meals, and connect. With goats grazing and the sunset painting the skies, each meal is more than food—it’s an experience.
• The Roller Coaster of Entrepreneurship: Kristiann opens up about the challenges of running her own business and the emotional highs and lows that come with it. Both Matt and Kristiann share their stories of nearly quitting their ventures, only to be pulled back by supportive friends, family, and even surprising clients.
• Sourcing Local and Giving Back: We talk about the devastating effects of unpredictable weather on local farmers and why supporting them through buying local is more essential than ever. Kristiann highlights how each local purchase directly impacts families and communities.
• Overcoming ‘Too Much’ Emotions: We share a few laughs and tears over the emotional challenges of being in high-stress roles, especially when society can make us feel “too emotional” or “too passionate.” Kristiann, Matt, and I all reflect on embracing our emotional sides and finding strength in our vulnerabilities.
• Shout-outs to Our Rock: We each give a warm shout-out to the grounding people in our lives who make our work possible. Kristiann talks about her husband, Rob, who’s her “steady rock” through everything, while we nod along, knowing exactly what she means.

Takeaways:

• Support Local, Change Lives: By simply buying from a farm stand or choosing local vendors, you’re not just getting fresh food—you’re directly impacting lives in your community.
• Community is Built Around the Table: Taking time to connect over a meal has the power to strengthen relationships, build understanding, and support local economies.
• Resilience in Business: The road of entrepreneurship is rarely smooth. Even on days when you feel like giving up, the right support system can make all the difference.
• Embrace Your Emotions: Being emotional isn’t a flaw; it’s a strength. It brings us closer to our work, to others, and helps us lead with empathy.

Links:

• Distinctive Ideas – West Hartford, CT – A dining experience company. Celebrate everything.
• Auerfarm’s Farm-to-Table – Bloomfield, CT – Auerfarm’s Farm-to-Table Dinner Series invites you to indulge in a unique culinary experience that celebrates the freshest local ingredients and sustainable practices. 
• Creative Consignments – Stowe, VT – #1 Resale Shop in Lamoille County year after year.
• Pennywise Consignments – Mystic, CT – Designer consignment clothing and accessories for women and men
• Park Road Shoe Repair – West Hartford, CT – We offers expert craftsmanship to ensure your favorite footwear is restored to its former glory.
• Vestiairie Collective – The World’s Largest Community Of Pre-Loved Fashion.
• Stay True Body Piercing – Newington, CT – premier piercing studio specializing in body piercings and fine jewelry.
• American Woolen – Stafford Springs, CT – textile mill and design lab using 100% American wool and fiber, restoring New England’s textile industry.
• United Way Store – United Way brings communities together to find strength and share hope. It’s the way we rally in hard times to meet people’s needs so they can rise back up and build a better future.
• Mezlan Shoes – Handmade Men’s Designer Shoes with Unique Personality, European Charm and Sophistication.
• The Wise Old Dog – West Hartford, CT – Boutique Bottle Shop – New website loading.
• Bahler Brothers – South Windsor, CT – Elegant outdoor living.
• Ocho Cafe – West Hartford, CT – Authentic Mexican cuisine and experience.
• Cafe Sophia – West Hartford, CT – Quaint coffeehouse with sidewalk seating serving espresso drinks, crêpes, pastries & macaroons.
• American Job Center – partnership of organizations that provide workforce assistance to job seekers and employers.
• New Britain Center of Excellence – The purpose of the Center of Excellence is to provide a one-stop resource for residents of the Housing Authority
• Warehouse 635 – event venue that offers an open space with industrial finishes that can be tailored to fit the style or theme of your gathering.