The Messy Baker Book Launch – A recap

The Messy Baker Book Launch – A recap

Guests mingling at The Messy Baker book launch.

Sunday came and went in a book signing blur. One minute I’m smoothing table cloths, straightening serviette stacks and calmly telling my sister there’s plenty of time before we should put the cookies out. The next, I’m barking orders at anyone within ear shot to get those plates of baked goods outside NOW and throw the hot appetizers into the oven, stat! The next few hours was a whirlwind of hugs and kisses and signatures as 100 guests toured the garden, sampled recipes from the book and bought copies of The Messy Baker before it even hit the stores. (Yes, that’s Rose Murray on the left and Pat Crocker on the far right.)

Rose Murray and Pat Crocker get their copies signed at the Messy Baker book launch.

I had planned to do a short talk and thank the people who helped. We had a microphone and amp all ready and waiting to go. It was even on a sturdy elevated surface so people could see me when I spoke. There was no time for speeches.

At one point I managed to down some cucumber water. My husband, (blue shirt, far right) ensured I didn’t choke.

Grabbing a quick drink at The Messy Baker Book Launch.

Then it was back to the Sharpie.

Charmian Christie signs copies at The Messy Baker Book Launch.

Because I couldn’t thank everyone at the time, I would like to now. I couldn’t have done it without my parents.

The author’s parents at The Messy Baker Book Launch.

My Dad trimmed hedges and edged the grass. He made numerous trips to the dump with bags of yard waste and hedge clippings. He picked up the sound system, set it up, and then returned it – unused. Mom baked and baked and baked. When she was done that she spent half a day rolling appetizers. She didn’t bat an eye when I showed up at her kitchen door with a washtub full of Sweet Potato Samosa filling and three packages of phyllo. And the next day, she baked again.

The Three Sisters at The Messy Baker Book Launch.

Allison, the sister with the champagne bottle, mowed the lawn. Robin, the sister with the milk bottle, kept the hot appetizers coming and filled plates to the brim with goodies.

Keeping the plates full at The Messy Baker Book Launch.

My mother-in-law kept the plates piled high with carbs.

Dale Bonnet provides the live music at The Messy Baker Book Launch.

My brother-in-law provided the live music for the whole two hours. His light jazz added more than just notes. It helped turn a book launch into a festive event.

Although not pictured, my camera-shy husband helped too. He ran numerous trips to the grocery store to buy forgotten ingredients, or simply MORE ingredients as I locked myself in the kitchen and ploughed through triple batch after triple batch of cookies, squares, brownies and savories. He kept the coffee flowing, played secretary when my hands were covered in batter, and made dinner when I simply couldn’t face the stove again.

For those who attended, I thank you. Your presence meant more to me than I can express coherently. You were the double-stuff filling at my Oreo party. Let’s not think this one over too carefully. This metaphor can’t withstand much scrutiny, but the sentiment is there.

For those who couldn’t attend, I’ve put together a video from the photos taken by two talented people — Simon Bell, Executive Director of Focus on Nature, and Connie Moore, a friend and gifted shutter bug. The video’s music, The Messy Baker, was composed and played by my brother-in-law, Dale Bonnet. When your hands are on a keyboard or camera, you can’t eat. Their sacrifice to the cause has been dually noted.

Thanks to all who helped, attended or sent words of encouragement.

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11 Comments
  • Mardi (eat. live. travel. write.)
    Posted at 10:58h, 28 August

    Thank YOU for the invite – and again HUGE congrats! Couldn’t be prouder of you!

  • Kay
    Posted at 12:56h, 28 August

    What a great post! I love that your whole family helped make it all happen. I’m gonna go buy your book now. Congratulations to you….I love your blog.

  • Charmian Christie
    Posted at 13:12h, 28 August

    Thanks,Mardi. I was thrilled you could come. I had a great time but my writing hand was stiff the next day. A good problem to have!

  • Charmian Christie
    Posted at 13:13h, 28 August

    Thanks so much, Kay. I honestly could not have done it without my family! I’m truly, truly blessed.

    Hope you like the book. I’d love to hear what recipes you try.

  • Debbie Spadafore
    Posted at 21:48h, 28 August

    We had such a lovely time! Thanks so much for my amazing copy of your cookbook! I am so honoured to have been included!

  • Charmian Christie
    Posted at 11:36h, 29 August

    My absolute pleasure, Debbie. I’m so glad you could make the launch. Thanks so much for your contentious testing. And for the adorable cupcake bookmark!

  • A Canadian Foodie
    Posted at 11:02h, 30 August

    Fabulous turnout. You look radiant – as does your entire family! Love this post as this is how it is when one has a loving family that pulls together to support The Messy Baker in the family when she cleans up her act by publishing her best recipes!!!! What a gorgeous , day, too – I see God cooperated, as well.
    Congratulations – truly, truly! Cannot wait to get my book…. and am really jealous that your guests have a lovely signed copy already.
    Cheers and standing ovation!
    Valerie

  • Charmian Christie
    Posted at 18:15h, 30 August

    Thanks. It really was a fabulous day – my family’s help, the enthusiastic guests, the perfect weather. Wish you could have joined the fun, but two time zones is a bit far. Looking forward to catching up with you at FBC2014!

  • Doreen Pendgracs
    Posted at 16:15h, 31 August

    Hi Charmian and congrats on your wonderful launch! It looks like a grand time was had by all. Wish I could have joined you! I’ve rec’d my copy of the Messy Baker in the mail. Can’t wait to peruse it and share some thoughts about it. My initial response is well done! The photos are fabulous–especially the cover!

  • Charmian Christie
    Posted at 14:09h, 02 September

    Thanks. It was a fabulous afternoon. I couldn’t have wished for better weather or a better turn out. At times like these I wish Canada wasn’t such a large country.

    Glad you’re liking the book so far. Ryan did a spectacular job on the photography. He’s a genius with light.

  • Pingback:Making Spinach Dill Pockets on CTV | The Messy Baker
    Posted at 13:16h, 30 March

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