Chocolate Lovers Weekend

Catskill Chocolate Co. is a boutique chocolatier located in the heart of Catskill, NY, dedicated to crafting small-batch artisan chocolates inspired by exceptional ingredients and imaginative flavor pairings. Founded by a team of lifelong friends with deep roots in the culinary and hospitality industries, the company has quickly become a beloved destination for handcrafted confections, specialty beverages, and warm hospitality. Their beautifully crafted chocolates showcase premium ingredients and inventive combinations, offering something to delight every palate. From elegant truffles and chocolate bars to seasonal specialties, each creation reflects a passion for quality, creativity, and community. Through every confection, Catskill Chocolate Co. celebrates the simple joy of sharing chocolate and creating memorable experiences.

Florencia Cusumano is an Argentine chef and culinary consultant whose approach to cooking blends technical expertise, creativity, and a deep appreciation for ingredients. After earning a degree in Culinary Arts from the Instituto Argentino de Gastronomía, she continued her training in haute cuisine and charcuterie, developing experience in both pastry and savory cooking. Her culinary journey has taken her through acclaimed kitchens in Argentina and Spain, including Nerúa Guggenheim in Bilbao, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and Narda Comedor Diario, led by award-winning chef Narda Lepes. Since moving into the New York culinary scene, Florencia has held positions at Barbuto, known for its seasonal California-Italian cuisine, and Criollas Baked, which celebrates Argentine pastries. She currently serves as Executive Head Chef at Butler NYC, bringing an elevated yet approachable sensibility to its café, bakery, and lunch offerings. Drawing on her background in law, university teaching, and international culinary experience, Florencia also brings a broad perspective to menu development and gastronomy consulting. Her work reflects a lifelong passion for food, a respect for tradition, and a commitment to continually exploring new ideas and flavors.

Lara Hope is based in the Hudson Valley and is the frontwoman of the Lara Hope Band, an award-winning group celebrated for its blend of roots rock ’n’ roll, rockabilly, and rhythm and blues. A winner of the Ameripolitan Music Award and recognized by Hudson Valley Magazine as “Best Up-and-Coming Band,” the group has been bringing its distinctive sound to audiences since 2012. Drawing inspiration from early American roots music, the band combines vintage influences with original songwriting, creating a style Lara describes as “pan-Americana.” The group has released three full-length studio albums, including Here to Tell the Tale, which received national and international acclaim. Over the years, they have toured extensively throughout the United States and Europe, sharing stages with celebrated acts including Joan Jett, The Brian Setzer Orchestra, The Blasters, and Reverend Horton Heat. Their festival appearances include Viva Las Vegas, Ink n Iron, and Nashville Boogie, as well as the 50th-anniversary celebration at Bethel Woods, the original site of Woodstock.