My First Gig: a Pinkies Up Open House in Fishtown

Last week, I got to do something I’ve always wanted to do: officially launch Pinkies Up Events and book my very first gig.

The event was a real estate open house in Fishtown, hosted by Dani Ascarelli and Emily Tubbs. Dani, my neighbor and fellow Ward 2 election worker (and the property’s owner!), hired me to create a beautiful charcuterie spread for the occasion. Emily, a real estate developer with La Marceline Properties, co-hosted and brought her signature warmth and professionalism to the afternoon.

The space was beautiful with modern finishes, crisp staging, and best of all, the building’s exterior was a perfect blush pink. Truly couldn’t have asked for a more on-theme debut for Pinkies Up.

This wasn’t a big splashy party. It was an elegant, welcoming open house: people stopped by casually throughout the afternoon to take in the space, sip a glass of wine, and enjoy a thoughtfully styled table of meats, cheeses, fruits, and more.

And yes… the charcuterie board? It was mine.

The meats came pre-sliced, but I sliced the cheeses by hand and styled every detail myself. From juicy grapes and dried apricots to toasted nuts and buttery crackers, the table was abundant, balanced, and intentionally crafted. It was warm, generous, and just a little bit fancy — exactly what I want people to feel when they see the Pinkies Up name.

This first event was personal. It came from my community, through someone who’s stood next to me at polling places and community meetings. That’s how I want to grow — through connection, reputation, and the joy of making people feel cared for.

So here we are. One event in. Dozens of ideas to come.

Whether it’s a housewarming, a luxe birthday, or a cozy book club with the perfect bites, I’m ready to make it beautiful.