Live Zoom Sessions
January 7, 14, 21, 2027
1:00 p.m. ET

Instructor: Carol Edmondson, Inn Advisors

This 3-week Lab helps lodging professionals create memorable food and beverage experiences that delight guests, reflect their property's unique personality, and enhance the overall guest experience—all while managing food costs and making the most of available resources.

Through live Zoom sessions, instructor demonstrations, and hands-on homework, participants will explore practical strategies for menu planning, food preparation, cost management, and creative presentation that turn everyday offerings into memorable experiences guests will rave about.

Week 1: Food Service and the Guest Experience – Magical Marketing

• Learn how to plan food and beverage offerings that delight guests while making the best use of your time, space, staff, and budget.
• Explore different service styles, including buffet vs. sit-down, individual portions vs. shared servings, and strategies for maintaining consistent quality.
• Discover ways to incorporate local ingredients, traditional recipes, and partnerships with local providers.
• Learn how to organize rotating menus, recipes, and purchasing schedules to simplify kitchen operations.

Week 2: Seasonal Menus That Write Their Own 5-Star Reviews

• Learn how to create seasonal menus that balance flavors, textures, guest preferences, and product costs.
• Explore ways to accommodate dietary restrictions and food allergies without sacrificing quality or flavor.
• Discover creative ways to reduce food waste, repurpose ingredients, and make the most of your food budget.
• Learn how to test menus in advance and build guest anticipation by sharing upcoming offerings.

Week 3: Signature Dishes & Plating Ideas

• Learn how to create signature food and beverage offerings that reflect your property's personality and give guests something memorable to return for.
• Explore signature dishes ranging from breakfast entrées and baked goods to savory treats, specialty beverages, and grab-and-go options.
• Discover simple plating techniques using creative dinnerware, edible garnishes, sauces, and colorful ingredients.
• Learn how to create beautiful, photo-worthy presentations that enhance the guest experience without adding unnecessary complexity.

By the end of this 3-week Lab, participants will:

• Understand the power of food to distinguish their property, support their marketing, and enhance the guest experience.
• Have a roadmap for managing food planning, procurement, preparation, presentation, and product costs.
• Create a menu and signature dish(s) that complement their property's unique guest experience.

Registration and Pricing

• Complimentary for most ALP members
• Digital Lodging Professional members: $149
• Nonmembers: $199

How It Works

• 3 live, virtual sessions (1 hour each)
• Interactive and hands-on—you’ll build as you go
• Real-time examples and practical application
• Access to a private group space to share ideas and get feedback

There will be light weekly homework designed to help you apply what you learned right away. The more you put in, the more you’ll walk away with.

Who This Is For

Independent lodging professionals who:

• Want to elevate their food and beverage offerings and create memorable guest experiences
• Are looking for creative ways to manage food costs and reduce waste
• Want to simplify menu planning, preparation, and kitchen operations
• Are ready to develop signature dishes and presentations that set their property apart