90. Exploring Identity and AAPI Perspectives with Abby Borden: A Conversation with Mayly Tao

Abby Borden (Founder, Table Set Go) is a Freelance Event Producer specializing in food & beverage. Her client list has included the Grammys, Elton John AIDS Foundation, Warner Brothers, Amazon Studios, the Dodgers and the James Beard Foundation and she has been the Producer for Regarding Her Food’s 10-day Festival, since its inception in 2021. Her goal for every event is that guests are well fed, thoroughly entertained, and still talking about it when they leave.   The daughter of a diplomat, she was fortunate enough to be exposed to different cultures, cuisines, art and design early on.  She especially loves being able to pluck from her travels when curating a menu or designing a space.     Abby is based in Los Angeles and shares a home with her partner Jon, their cats Penelope, Bean, and dog Roscoe - who loves food as much as his Mommy does.  You can find her @tableset_go on Instagram.     Here are the golden nuggets from the conversation about becoming a successful freelancer and maintaining valuable relationships: Value Relationships: Building and maintaining relationships is crucial for success, whether you're a freelancer or in a traditional job. Never burn bridges, and always represent yourself positively because you never know who your next boss or client might be. Networking Pays Off: Networking can lead to unexpected opportunities. The story of how the James Beard Foundation became a client through a chance connection emphasizes the importance of networking and staying open to possibilities. Take Bold Actions: Don't hesitate to take bold actions in your career, even if they seem daunting. Sometimes, making that uncomfortable phone call or sending that email can lead to significant opportunities. Maintain Relationships: Continuously nurture your professional relationships. You never know when you or someone you know might need assistance or collaboration in the future. Specialize: Rather than trying to do everything, focus on your specific strengths and specialties. This helps you stand out in your field and attract clients who value your expertise. Clarity in Specialization: Clearly define your specialization to prospective clients. For example, instead of saying you're a general event planner, specify that you're an event producer specializing in food and beverage. This clarity helps attract the right clients. Passion and Focus: Pursue work that you're passionate about and aligns with your expertise. When you love what you do, it's easier to excel and find satisfaction in your work. Accessibility: Don't hesitate to reach out to people you admire or want to learn from. Direct messages (DMs) and emails can be effective ways to connect with potential mentors or collaborators. Be Complimentary: When reaching out to someone for advice or collaboration, it's a compliment that you found them. Express your admiration and interest in their work. Stay Available: Be open and available for potential clients or collaborators who want to get in touch with you. Responsiveness and accessibility can lead to new opportunities.   Connect with me: Email: [email protected] Business Website: www.donutprincessla.com YouTube: Mayly Tao / DONUT PRINCESS LA Instagram: @donutprincessla / @maylytao Facebook: Donut Princess Los Angeles Twitter: Donut Princess LA  Tiktok: teochewdaily LinkedIn: Mayly Tao Apple Podcast: Short N' Sweet: A Donut Princess Podcast  *Help me self-publish my mom’s book about her journey to America: https://gofund.me/e2569649 *Watch the Donut King Film here: thedonutkingfilm.com (also available on Apple TV, Google Play, and Amazon Prime Now)