About this Event
How to Create a Picture-Perfect Thanksgiving (or Friendsgiving)
Date: Friday November 7th
Time: 6-9PM
Location: Institute of Culinary Education
Join food stylists Katie Stilo and Anthony Contrino for a festive, hands-on class that brings the art of food styling to the holiday table. You’ll sip a welcome cocktail while learning the insider techniques used to make Thanksgiving spreads shine on television, in magazines, and across social media. From carving and styling the perfect turkey platter to mastering the mashed potato swirl, we’ll walk you through menu planning, prop selection, and creating a stunning tablescape that’s camera-ready and celebration-worthy. With live demos, pro tools, and interactive moments, this class blends storytelling, practical know-how, and holiday inspiration—ending, of course, with a shared bite of the beautifully styled feast.
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Anthony Michael Contrino is an Emmy award-winning culinary producer, food stylist, chef and on-air personality. His passion for food started when he first learned to chew.
After graduating from The French Culinary Institute, Anthony went on to train at Maison CaraTie, a full-service bakery in Beziers, France, mastering the art of the croissant and reinforcing his inherent love of butter.
Upon his return to The States, Anthony worked in numerous New York City bakeries and restaurant pastry kitchens before “accidentally” getting into food media. Once in, he never left, working his way up the ranks. His clients include NBC Universal, Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Food Network, Kellogg’s, Stella Artois and Macy’s. He is also the host of TODAY’s Original Series, Saucy.
Katie Stilo is a NYT Best Selling Author, Emmy Award–winning Culinary Producer and Food Stylist with a sharp eye, seasoned skills, and serious kitchen cred. Trained in culinary arts, pastry and baking, and culinary management at The Institute of Culinary Education—with a certificate from The Italian Culinary Institute—Katie pairs refined technique with an unmistakable flair for flavor.
Her work lives at the intersection of creativity and precision. Whether she's styling dishes for national broadcast, producing behind the scenes, or leading culinary content strategy, Katie brings unmatched energy, efficiency, and vision to every project.
Off set, she’s the founder of Stilo Bakes, a pop-up brand that turns indulgence into impact by supporting local charities with every event. She also hosts Today Food Radio on SiriusXM Channel 108, serving up culinary conversation with warmth and wit. Most recently, she co-authored the Today Loves Food cookbook, a joyful collection of recipes that celebrates everyday cooking with heart.
Her client roster spans household names and cultural icons, including M&M’s, NBC’s Today Show, SNL, The Tonight Show, MasterClass, Martha Stewart, Bon Appétit, Food Network, Chobani, McCormick, and more.
The Institute of Culinary Education, established in 1975, is one of America’s leading centers for culinary learning, with campuses in New York City, Los Angeles, and robust online programs. The school is renowned for its career training programs in Culinary Arts, Pastry & Baking Arts, Plant-Based Culinary Arts, and Hospitality & Restaurant Management, which can be completed in as little as eight months. Beyond professional training, the school hosts an extensive menu of recreational cooking, baking, beverage, and mixology classes that invite food lovers of all levels to explore and expand their skills. The school is also a popular special event venue for anyone looking to host a unique and memorable hands-on cooking event. Learn more at or connect with us on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and Facebook at @iceculinary.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Institute of Culinary Education, 225 Liberty Street, New York, United States
USD 89.00
