Local business owner Tammy L. Shapiro will share the secrets of her success at the Summer Fancy Food Show next week in D.C. The owner of Talk of the Town Gourmet Gifts & More in Springfield, her business specializes in corporate gifts, gourmet foods and gift baskets, and event décor and design.

Shapiro will conduct a hands-on seminar “Wrap, Stack & Go" on Monday from 8:30 - 10 a.m., as part of the show's education program. "If you own a business or have tossed around the idea of starting a company specializing in gourmet foods, this is where you want to be," she said. 

Shapiro will share her knowledge in product design and development, while highlighting some of the hottest trends in the gourmet food industry. "This is the largest gourmet food show designed to serve caterers, restaurant owners, gourmet food shops and more," said Shapiro. "Distributors will gather from all over the world to share the hottest trends in food and beverages."

The convention is taking place at D.C.'s Walter E. Washington Convention Center from Saturday to Tuesday. Class registration is available on an individual basis, as well as in three package options.  Details are available on the website.

Shapiro has participated in the Fancy Food Show circuit for 12 years, traveling throughout the United States to share her award-winning expertise. 

She is also the co-founder of CelebrateXpo!—a convention and trade show serving the gifting and event planning industry. This year's event will take place August 5 - 7 in Las Vegas.

Shapiro served on the board of the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce for nine years, 1999 through 2007, and as Chamber president in 2003. While on the board, she served as director of programs.