It’s Saturday morning! Another weekend is here but it’s not just any weekend. It’s the one following the gathering of food enthusiasts at the GTCO Food & Drinks Festival in Lagos State, Nigeria. As per my usual routine, I should have already had breakfast, perhaps lunch or some snacks in between. I should have also commenced my Saturday chores and made productive use of the weekend. However, here I am, sprawled across my bed, repeatedly counting the ceiling, observing my pillow resembling a giant-sized bread. Also constantly checking my account balance for the hundredth time wondering if the figures I saw before had changed. How did I end up here? How did I stumble into this predicament? This cannot possibly be my account balance.

Just a week ago, I was enjoying myself at the GTCO Festival, indulging in tasting and critiquing every edible item I laid my eyes on, a task no one sent me. But now, as I think back to the experience, I feel both satisfied and financially strained. As I lie on my bed, memories flood back from what was one of the most eventful weekends I’ve had in a long time. Just last weekend, I sampled an entire menu that could have sustained me for a month. Now, I find myself yearning for my pillow to transform into bread. I vividly recall the moment I entered the venue for the event; the tantalizing scents of various foods greeted me, signaling that I was in for a treat. Despite having eaten just an hour earlier, my stomach betrayed me, rumbling in anticipation as soon as I passed through the gates.

The Food

Upon stepping in, the first thing that caught my eye was the array of dishes on display. From one stand to the next, there was something to tantalize the taste buds. Another notable aspect was the bustling crowd. At one point, I found myself pondering whether these were the same individuals who often lamented about the lack of money in Nigeria. Why such a sizable turnout? Trust me when I say that each vendor’s booth was a visual spectacle, boasting vibrant branding that could easily tempt you to overspend. The attention to detail in the presentation of the various food was remarkable. It was evident that the event organizers and the vendors had invested significant thought and creativity into ensuring their food not only looked appealing but also translated into increased sales for them.

I started cautiously, trying a few small plates, snacks, drinks, and plenty of sweets. However, it wasn’t long before I found myself enjoying rich African delicacies without pretending to be posh or anything. I had resolved to try everything and anything. Despite having a budget in mind, I couldn’t resist the temptation to sample almost everything on offer. I found myself drawn to vendors with the most intriguing aesthetics and packaging, eager to taste their food. From elegantly designed containers for sauces and condiments to eco-friendly packaging for snacks and desserts, each item showcased the creativity and innovation of the vendors.

Relieving the Moment

As I made my way through the festival, trying out a variety of dishes and treats, I was super impressed by the level of care and attention that had gone into the branding and packaging of the food products. It was clear that these food business owners were not just selling food; they were telling a story, sharing a piece of every detail that made up the brand creations, and cajoling individuals to try out food from their stand, I won’t lie they knew the right words. As I tried one dish after another, I realized that the branding and packaging were not just about attracting customers – it was about creating a long-lasting impression, a memory that would linger on after the last bite, a memory that will make you empty your bank account and one that will leave you wanting for more the weekend after just like me.

I feel the GTCO Food and Drink Festival was not just a celebration of food; it was a celebration of creativity, a gathering of like-minded individuals, and a community of foodies and event-turned-food lovers who had a thing for anything food, love, and connection enthusiasts. Saying that I had fun at the GTCO festival feels like an understatement, I wished the weekend had not ended but it had to and I’m glad I didn’t miss out on any fun part. As I lay here on my bed, staring up at the ceiling, I can’t help but relive all the fun at the event in my head. Who would have thought that a weekend of just small enjoyment would leave me with so much mental calculation? Not like I’m a foodie oh! but there’s just something about GTCO that will turn you into a food lover instantly. But you know what they say – sometimes, the best experiences in life come at a price. And in this case, I’d say it was a price well worth paying. It’s the weekend after GTCO and I’m sure I’ll always relive the memories created in my head weekend after weekend.