Being Gluten Free at The LA Cookie Con.
This past weekend was the 2nd annual LA Cookie Con and Sweets Show. While I missed out on the inaugural con last year at The Pasadena Convention Center (We were in Illinois), I have heard several mixed opinions as far as crowds, disorganization, and just an overall obnoxious vibe instead of fun. So, I was anxious to see for myself what to expect this year, especially, since they up-graded to The LA Convention Center.
While the $15 to park hurt, being a VIP thanks to Cookie Con made the blow less hard. With registration kicking off at 9 and VIP’s allowed in at 10, we managed to get there at the dot of 9 and made our way to line up with no issues. By the time it was nearing entry time? The line was wrapped around the outside of the hall, and, it was already in the 80s.. People love and want their cookies, I tell you!
Once inside, my friend, Lisa and I headed right over to our meet and greet with the adorable Rosanna Pansino from YouTube’s Nerdy Nummies. Pansino could not be more sweet, coming in at 4’10, we loved her massive heels and she was extremely warm and genuine with each of her adoring fans. Make sure to check out her show, I have been binge-watching and now want to make R2 D2 Valentine candies and a Game of Thrones pizza. How cool is she, right?!
Throughout the exhibit hall, it was all about the sweets. Each booth was at the ready to provide you samples of their magical treats, and, my biggest question was: Are they gluten-free? Luckily I made out like a bandit as MANY of the brands had gluten-free options, or, like The Almond Bar and GF Bakery, COMPLETLEY gluten-free! I will admit: my cookies I bought from The Almond Bar are already gone, and I am eyeing the donuts from The GF Bakery I have (yes, I said gluten-free donuts.)
Two issues I did have with The Cookie Con, though, was the lack of vegan options, as 2 of my friends who went Saturday follow a no dairy diet and for them, there was hardly anything to enjoy. My other concern? The few vegan options, and several of the amazing gluten-free stands, were in the VIP sections only. Meaning, if you had general admission, you’re out of luck. While its cool to say you’re a VIP if you have dietary restrictions, it’s no bueno to pay more to enjoy yourself. I hope in the coming years they make a bit more of an effort to improve the general section for all to enjoy.
Like any event, there will always be kinks to smooth out. It is clear that The LA Cookie Con is going nowhere, and I look forward to seeing it evolve as the years go by! Learn more HERE and see you next year! xo
(*Disclosure: I was provided media credentials on behalf o this review. All opinions are my own.)