On a warm spring evening in downtown Rochester, scores of people gathered in the courtyard of Innovation Square for a celebration that was years in the making. Canandaigua National Bank & Trust unveiled a refreshed brand identity with new visuals, updated messaging, and a bold look toward the future, while proudly reaffirming their commitment to the community that made them who they are. Farmhouse Table was honored to cater this milestone event, helping CNB mark the occasion with a menu that reflected both local pride and modern hospitality.
Though the bank’s branding may have taken on a fresh new look, the message of the evening was clear: they’re staying true to their roots. In an era where banks increasingly repackage themselves into vague clusters of initials, Canandaigua National Bank made the deliberate decision to keep its full name; a nod to its hometown identity and the trust it has built over generations. That sense of place and purpose set the tone for the evening, and we were proud to support it with a thoughtful selection of drinks and bites.
Guests were welcomed into the courtyard with a colorful charcuterie spread, arranged to impress and designed for sharing. We built the table around regional meats and cheeses, layering in dried and fresh fruits, house-pickled vegetables, spiced nuts, jams, mustards, and crackers. The abundance of textures and flavors was a visual centerpiece as much as it was a gathering point, drawing people in for conversation, photos, and second helpings. It was a perfect match for a company honoring its past while looking forward.
To keep the mood festive and refreshing, we served a signature punch garnished with edible flowers. The drink was bright, lightly tropical, and entirely unexpected—a playful contrast to the formality of a corporate event. Sipping a cold cocktail with a marigold or pansy floating on top, guests mingled freely between speeches and photo ops. The flowers added a colorful, celebratory touch that felt just right for the occasion.
On the food side, we kept things elegant yet approachable, offering passed bites that were easy to enjoy while standing and socializing. The caprese skewers with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction were a summertime favorite and a nod to simplicity done well. Fresh, local ingredients and clean presentation made them a hit among the crowd.
For something warmer and more comforting, our servers passed pimento grilled cheese sandwich bites, a nod to Southern charm with just the right amount of sharpness and spice. Crisped on the griddle and cut into perfect two-bite pieces, these little sandwiches disappeared quickly. They were familiar, flavorful, and just indulgent enough to feel like a treat.
Though our menu for the evening was more limited than at some of our larger catered events, we embraced the challenge of creating impact through quality, not quantity. With hundreds of guests in attendance, efficiency, polish, and hospitality were everything and our team was proud to deliver. From setup in the early afternoon to the last glass cleared late that night, we were honored to help bring CNB’s vision to life.
It was a night of pride, not just for Canandaigua National Bank, but for the Rochester community they serve. Seeing so many people come out in support, raising glasses in the courtyard as the sun went down, reminded us why we do what we do. Events like this are about more than food and drink. They’re about identity, connection, and celebrating the people who make a place what it is.
At Farmhouse Table, we’re grateful to play a part in those moments. Whether it’s a wedding, a nonprofit gala, or a corporate celebration like this one, we believe in the power of food to bring people together and reflect a sense of purpose. Contact us today for your event.
To our friends at Canandaigua National Bank: congratulations on this exciting new chapter, and thank you for trusting us to be part of the story. Here’s to hometown roots, community spirit, and the road ahead.