At Proof of the Pudding, appreciation isn’t just a value—it’s a practice. That spirit came to life with the launch of the very first Dogwood Fest, a heartfelt offsite celebration created to recognize and uplift the incredible hourly team members who make every event shine.
The inspiration behind Dogwood Fest came directly from the field. While working alongside event staff, POP leaders listened closely to team members’ feedback—specifically the desire for an inclusive event where hourly employees could be the ones celebrated, not just the ones serving. The result? A full-fledged appreciation party designed entirely with them in mind.
Spearheaded by General Manager, Offsite Division Ben Mair, Dogwood Fest flipped the script: salaried team members suited up to work the event while hourly staff enjoyed a well-earned afternoon of food, fun, and recognition. From early call times to long shifts in unpredictable weather, POP’s hourly team consistently shows up with professionalism and positivity. Dogwood Fest was created to honor that dedication in a meaningful, memorable way.
To make the event extra special, the POP team introduced an awards program inspired by their annual Leadership Conference. With creative categories and heartfelt tributes, the awards celebrated standout individuals across the team. Each award winner also received a $100 gift card in recognition of their contributions:
Dogwood Fest 2025 Award Winners
- Red Rover – Juan Carlos Padilla
- Passion Fruit – Edwards Ibekwe
- Groomed for Greatness – Betty Hyman
- The Extra Mile – Luis Rivera
- Line Leader Legend – Emma Martinez
- Calm in the Chaos – Erin Wellington
- Pop-Up Pro – Lequan Lopez
- Backstage Brilliance – Demarco Walker
- Heat & Hustle – William Chavez
- Platinum Plate – Natalia Siegrist
- A Slice of Greatness – Keylee Lawson
- Tablescape Trailblazer – Tran Le
- “Yes, Chef” – Martha Nava
- The POP Factor – Wendi Camacho
- Heart of Service – Laura Woodall
- Service with Soul – Dewan Smith
- Run It Like You Own It – Mendette Presume
- Crème de la Crust – Ashlee Stewart
- Above and Beyond – Kamya Wright
- Hit the Ground Running – Toni Lowe
- All-Round Ace – Urenna Ehehosi
- Punctuality Pro – Aileen Kronke
POP also tapped into its strong network of partners to bring the day to life. From donated games by YES Event Design and festive linens by Eventworks to a special collaboration with Southern Crust, vendors enthusiastically stepped in to support the cause—deepening their relationships with the POP team and reinforcing a shared commitment to people-first hospitality.
As part of the festivities, the team also hosted a high-energy raffle, adding even more excitement to the day. Prizes included gift cards, a 50” television, and tickets generously donated by Zoo Atlanta. The raffle added an extra layer of fun and surprise, capping off the event with moments of pure joy and celebration.
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With its successful debut, Dogwood Fest is set to become a cherished annual tradition—one that grows each year and continues to show hourly team members how essential they are to POP’s culture and success.
As Ben Mair shared, “Proof of the Pudding would not be who we are or where we are without our people.” Dogwood Fest is a testament to that truth and a powerful reminder that when you invest in your team, everyone wins.
by Dina Biondo in Event 
