There are those in the world we deem the “productive people”. There are those who take it to the next level and are “highly productive”. There are individuals who have taken multitasking and made it both an art and a science. Then there is Lee Schrager. The phrase “overachiever” tends to get a bad reputation as if it is a reflection of a character trait one should not admire.
In truth, it would be less than noteworthy without the much-needed ingredient; humility, which is something that Lee is not lacking. He is both talented and tenacious, proving that having a dream and a vision is not enough. The real magic and talent rests in his ability to not only make a dream into a reality, but also in the ability to continue to reinvent it in a way that not only engenders excitement and possesses entertainment value, but gives back to the very community that makes it all possible.Each year, before the Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by FOOD & WINE takes thousands of national and international “foodies” on a gastronomical adventure, I have the delicious opportunity to sit down with Lee and simply talk. I learned a long time ago that allowing the conversation to emerge is the best way in which to capture the true essence of someone whom I not only deeply respect, but whose blueprint for success both creatively as well in mainstream business has influenced decisions that I’ve made. For this, and many other reasons, I am unabashedly one of his biggest fans.
NOTE: While The entire event is beyond fantastic this is one I can’t wait to experience. Sweets Masquerade
Joshua Estrin: By this point in the process of planning the NYCWFF you are known for saying ‘my part is over’. How do you ensure that all the moving parts remain moving in the right direction?
Lee Schrager: I could give you the politically correct answer and of course, to be honest, I have a remarkable team. In truth, it takes a great deal of prayer and more than a few moments of meltdowns. And while I wouldn’t change it for the world, it never really gets easier. I guess the biggest change is that I know to expect the unexpected, and I do my best to welcome it and give it the most comfortable seat in the house.
JE: While not everyone is planning an event for thousands of people, what advice would you offer anyone who is coordinating a gathering of any size that involves food, spirits and in many cases, a diverse group of people ( friends, family, etc.)?
LS: Don’t do it! Seriously… do your best to stay committed and calm. Listen to other people. Don’t do it! Actually, if the spirit moves you to take on planning an event, what I have learned over the years is there is no way to accomplish it without really taking the time to authentically listen to people and genuinely take their praise as well as their criticisms under review. Sometimes when I express this idea to people they think I’m joking or they are surprised. It’s as if I’m supposed to have all the answers to every possible question that could come up in an environment and an economy that are constantly changing. The real experts on any event are the people who year after year attend it. It’s impossible to see all the moving parts when you’re in the middle of it all and in truth, you’re one of those moving parts. So, by hearing from people in the industry as well as the attendees, those things that have worked, didn’t work or perhaps simply suggestions on what to do new or slightly differently is invaluable. I would have to say the most important thing, and oftentimes the most difficult thing, is that one needs to put his or her ego aside when planning something as large-scale as the New York City Wine and Food Festival, or any event. It s not about you. It is bigger than you, and if you need help and insight, ask for it.
JE: What are you most excited about this year regarding the NYCWFF?
LS: Every year I’m excited because it seems as though, while we are not re-creating the wheel, we are adding just enough that is different to not only challenge ourselves, but give the festival a feeling of newness and freshness that people have come to expect, without losing sight of some of the wonderful traditions that have become the mainstays and the expectations of those who attend. This year, we have Patty LaBelle, an icon who like many celebrities, when she’s not touring or making public appearances, loves to cook. She’s bringing that love of food along with her enigmatic personality to the Festival this year. And because it’s Patty, it’s going to be something completely unique. We are also focusing on some of the smaller events and smaller dinners as an opportunity to create intimacy and intimate experiences under the umbrella of an event that still has so much to offer in its larger scale celebrations of food and wine.
JE: You are certainly not a man that sits still for very long. Any new projects on the horizon?
LS: I have a new book coming out in 2016, Breakfast in America (Clarkson Potter). I love to cook, I love breakfast, and I love a good read.
ABOUT THE FESTIVAL:
NYCWFF 2014 raised more than $1 million! 100% of the net proceeds benefit Food Bank For New York City and the No Kid Hungry® Campaign. To date, NYCWFF has raised $8.5 million to help fight hunger.
After seven successful years, the Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by FOOD & WINE (NYCWFF) is gearing up to once again pay homage to one of the greatest dining cities in the world while fighting to end hunger! It is the only Festival in New York to bring together both legendary culinary icons from around the globe and America’s most beloved television chefs.
NYCWFF began as a one-night event, SWEET, in the fall of 2007. In 2008, Festival Founder and Director, Lee Brian Schrager (Vice President, Corporate Communications & National Events at Southern Wine & Spirits of America) launched the inaugural NYCWFF that has quickly grown to mirror the success of its sister Festival, the Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by FOOD & WINE.
NYCWFF 2014 raised more than $1 million! 100% of the net proceeds benefit Food Bank For New York City and the No Kid Hungry campaign. To date, NYCWFF has raised $8.5 million to help fight hunger.
The 2015 Festival will once again bring together the world’s greatest chefs, winemakers, spirits producers and personalities to educate palates and entertain attendees in high style.
Keep it social and keep up with all the Festival events:
Twitter: @NYCWFF
Twitter @Lee_Schrager