After five years of watching “The Barefoot Contessa,” Gabby began to express her desire to meet Ina Garten. Living across the country from East Hampton, where Ina resides, I wasn’t sure how that dream could come true, but I held on to the hope of one day making it a reality.
In September 2015, I spotted an opportunity when I found an online charity auction offering lunch with Ina at her barn. Eager to win, I placed a bid, fully invested in making my daughter’s dream come true. Unfortunately, I lost in a bidding war and felt devastated.
Fast forward to the holidays the following year, my then-husband and I were in New York City. While having breakfast at a Jewish deli, I mentioned Gabby’s wish to meet Ina. Remarkably, just moments later, Ina and her husband Jeffrey walked into the same restaurant. I was in disbelief. Outside the deli, I told Ina how much she meant to Gabby. Tears flowed as I shared how Gabby had learned cooking from her. Ina responded with warmth, emphasizing the lifelong importance of cooking to bring people together.
When I returned home, I told Gabby about my unexpected encounter with Ina, but I couldn’t promise her a meeting. However, just two days later, I received an email from the auction house announcing another auction for a chance to meet Ina again. This time, I approached the bidding differently, and we won.
As the meeting day approached, I felt anxious, questioning whether Ina would connect with Gabby, who might be too shy to speak. To prepare, we compiled questions for Ina, discussing our plans repeatedly.
On the big day, Gabby initially slept in late but soon got up when her younger brother announced it was “Ina Day.” Excited but nervous, we made our way to the restaurant for breakfast, and Gabby spotted Ina from a distance, causing her to hesitate.
To our relief, Ina greeted us warmly, and immediately all nerves faded. She was just as charming in person as on her show, engaging us in conversation and asking about Gabby’s cooking interests. Gabby found her voice with Ina’s encouragement, while her brother contributed stories to keep the conversation lively.
Gabby gifted Ina a handmade bracelet, which she proudly wore, and after brunch, we toured Ina’s beautiful garden and kitchen. The whole experience felt surreal, like a dream come true.
As we hugged goodbye, Gabby asked for a hug from Ina, who eagerly obliged. That heartfelt moment captured the bond they formed, bringing tears to my eyes. Gabby came to meet her idol, but I left feeling inspired by Ina as a new role model.