Assiniboine College Launches Inaugural Sweet Affair, Sells Out Fast

UPDATE: Assiniboine College’s inaugural Sweet Affair event captivated dessert lovers on October 26, 2023, selling out within hours. The culinary showcase featured an array of desserts and specialty beverages, all crafted by students from the college’s culinary arts and hospitality business management programs.

Held in the Manitoba Institute of Culinary Arts, the event showcased 12 themed stations, each presenting three unique dessert items paired with innovative mocktails. Guests indulged in a delightful assortment that included cakes, tarts, pies, and éclairs, many made using fresh ingredients harvested from the college’s own garden.

Karen O’Gilvie, the academic chair for the Manitoba Institute of Culinary Arts and Field to Fork, highlighted the event’s educational benefits. “We wanted to showcase desserts as a standalone event, and this was the perfect time of year to do that,” she stated. Approximately 30 students participated in planning and executing the evening, which attracted 100 guests eager to taste the students’ creations.

“This event is about teaching mass production, teamwork, budgeting, event planning, and exceeding customer expectations,” O’Gilvie added. The students dedicated over two months of hard work leading up to the Sweet Affair, which provided them with invaluable hands-on experience.

Guests also appreciated the inclusion of gluten-free and dairy-free alternatives at each station. “It’s about teaching students how to serve every guest,” O’Gilvie emphasized, pointing out the importance of inclusivity in culinary arts.

For students like Isabel Carter, the experience was both thrilling and challenging. “I personally love baking—it’s my favorite,” Carter said. “This event means a lot. I got to learn new techniques and do things I probably wouldn’t have done otherwise.” She noted that events like Sweet Affair help students develop essential communication and presentation skills.

First-year student Didier Bernal described the event as unforgettable. “It’s just awesome to have this kind of exposure,” he said. Bernal also shared that guests were pleasantly surprised by the creativity behind each dish, including his unique espresso-inspired mocktail. “People think it’s going to be bitter, but when they try it, it’s like sweet hot chocolate—perfect for the winter coming up,” he explained.

As attendees navigated through rooms filled with plated desserts, O’Gilvie expressed gratitude for the community’s support. “We’re so grateful for the support from the Westman community,” she remarked. “Tonight is a celebration of that partnership—and of what our students can do when passion meets learning.”

With the Sweet Affair proving to be a resounding success, the college sets the stage for future events that continue to blend culinary passion with real-world experience. Keep an eye on Assiniboine College for more exciting initiatives that highlight student talent and community engagement.

For more information, contact [email protected].