05/31/2026
This year, we surprised our team with tickets to Table for 1200 as our annual staff appreciation event.
For those unfamiliar, Table for 1200 is one of Winnipeg’s most unique fundraising events- bringing together local architecture, design, food, and community in a way that celebrates everything that makes our city special. Even more meaningful, every ticket purchased helps provide a meal to someone in Winnipeg through Made With Love
When Arsh and I plan staff appreciation events, we always try to support something local. This year felt especially meaningful because it combined community, charity, and the opportunity to spend a beautiful evening together.
Academy Optical was proud to sponsor our table, and despite a few rookie decorating challenges (our cherry blossom decor spent most of the evening trying to become airborne 🌸😂), it turned out to be a night we’ll remember for a long time.
One of my favourite moments wasn’t the yummy food, the beautiful setting, or even the spectacular Hudson’s Bay Building cake- it was sitting around the table sharing what we appreciate about one another.
The recurring theme from our team was that coming to work doesn’t feel like work. They spoke about feeling supported, valued, and like they’re part of a family (the AO fam). Hearing that meant the world to Arsh and me because that’s exactly the kind of culture we’ve hoped to build 🫶🏽.
A huge thank you to , the countless volunteers, organizers, sponsors, and talented local chefs and restaurants who make this event possible year after year. The amount of work behind the scenes is truly incredible!
Grateful for our team. Grateful for our city. And grateful for evenings that remind us what community is all about. 🖤🤍💗