The Jamaica Epicurean Escape (JEE), while being a new event has managed to attract the support and investment of some major companies. Included in this are HEART NTA, Cardiff Hotel & Spa, The Jewel Resort, The Gleaner Company, Creative Production and Training Centre, Grizzly's Entertainment as well as the official endorsement of the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB).

While this is the beginning of an impressive list, there is still opportunity for many brands to attach themselves to this unique event.

When asked why such major companies would invest in a new event, Marcia McDonnough, responsible for the event explained. "One of the underlying core values of the JEE is that we want to ensure that we give value and satisfaction to all parties that engage with us. Whether this is a sponsor, a supplier, a chef or a patron, we want to make sure that the satisfaction level is high and that there is equity between the value they receive and the investment they make. That investment could be time, money or expertise. We know that if this objective is achieved, then our job is done, and we will continue to get valuable support".

Become true partners

"Gone are the days when sponsors only required the placement of a logo on advertisements, mention in news releases and a banner at an event. The field has become very dynamic and event organisers and sponsors must become true partners if the relationship is to be beneficial to each. Creative event organisers pay special attention to each sponsors' corporate and marketing objectives and will go outside of the box in order to design a package that will be of true value to the potential sponsor.

"It's not always a nice job, said McDonnough. It's tedious and time-consuming and at times you get really disheartened, but then you get that one bright marketer who sees your vision and believes, and together you plot the course and you take the road together, when it all works out, it makes it all worth it."

The Jamaica Epicurean Escape continues to seek its true partners who will help in developing the vision of presenting the most spectacular food extravaganza once per year at Richmond Estate. The group is looking for creative and innovative marketers who wish to associate with a product that's unique, with the potential to reach a large local and international market, and one that will create significant value for its partners.

If you are looking for a new and exciting event to link your product to, contact the JEE at: jamaicaepicureanescape@gmail.com. For more on the JEE visit: www.jamaicaepicureanescape.com.