I design the overall experience and settings for each TABOO DINNER, shaping the brand's visual identity and crafting engaging events. It starts by selecting relevant taboo topics and conducting thorough research to spark insightful discussions together with the second founder Léonie Bouchet. Each event features a comfortable, visually appealing setting and a plant-based menu that aligns with our themes. Our goal is to create a captivating experience where thoughtful conversations and meaningful connections flourish, seamlessly blending art and design.
As we are trying to reach as diverse a group as possible at the table, the theme will not be announced until the evening of the dinner. The aim is to maximize the chance of having both people who have experience with the topic, for whom it is a huge taboo, and people who have no or less reservations about it.Each dinner is hosted in a distinctive pop-up location that either aligns with or contrasts sharply against the evening’s topic. This choice of venue adds depth to the experience, enhancing the discussion and creating a more immersive and thought-provoking atmosphere.Every TABOO DINNER menu is thoughtfully designed to visually align with the topic of discussion, reflecting the essence of the evening's theme. The flexible visual identity allows for creative expression and experimentation, enabling us to craft menus that not only complement the subject matter but also enhance the overall experience. This approach ensures that every detail, from presentation to plating, resonates with the evening’s theme, creating a cohesive and immersive environment where the food and discussion are seamlessly intertwined.At TABOO DINNER, even the food is intricately designed to align with the evening’s topic. From how it’s cooked to its presentation and serving, every detail is carefully considered to enhance the overall experience. Léonie, the culinary mastermind behind TABOO DINNER, plays a pivotal role as the cook and recipe creator. Her culinary creations are thoughtfully crafted to resonate with the theme, making the food an integral part of the conversation and adding another layer of depth to the event.Photo Credit: Paula GierhardtGuests at TABOO DINNER are thoughtfully guided into the evening’s topic through a carefully crafted structure based on our research. A significant part of my work is designing an interactive concept that unfolds throughout the dinner. The table setting and food presentation play a key role, with tailored guiding questions and discussion prompts woven into each course and delivered in a creative way. They might appear as printed napkins, messages on silver plates, surprise questions hidden in the food, or objects that emerge at planned moments during the meal. This playful approach helps break the ice, encourages interaction, and leads participants to explore the topic in a meaningful and memorable way.
The Experience at TABOO DINNER—open mouth, open mind
We transform the dining table into a symbol of connection and discovery. Through creatively staged meals, we inspire guests to explore new perspectives together, fostering emotional engagement and challenging traditional norms. Our approach seamlessly blends traditional and modern communication channels to create impactful conversations on topics often left in the shadows. Each dinner is a catalyst for positive change, offering a fresh lens through which to view the world.
Why TABOO DINNER? Our mission is to challenge dining norms, foster open dialogue, and promote inclusivity. By addressing uncomfortable topics in a safe and supportive space, TABOO DINNER amplifies marginalized voices, builds trust, and bridges social divides. We aim to create an environment where empathy flourishes, empowering all participants to engage in meaningful conversations that inspire growth and understanding.
To learn more about the concept, explore past dinners, or join a future table, be sure to visit our Instagram or website.
TABOO DINNER is carefully crafted to spark meaningful dialogue on important and often overlooked topics. We begin by selecting relevant issues and conducting in-depth research to develop a structured approach for the evening’s discussions. The event’s visual identity is both adaptable and creative, allowing us to design environments that either enhance or challenge the theme, making each dinner setting unique.
In every dinner, the food itself is a reflection of the topic, with each dish thoughtfully prepared and presented to align with the evening’s theme. To ease guests into the conversation, there are interactive elements incorporated such as printed napkins, hidden questions in the food, and timed designed objects that appear during the meal. These playful touches encourage engagement and help participants connect with the topic and each other, creating an experience that is both thought-provoking and unforgettable.
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