Philly Chit Chat

Last night, Philadelphia’s movers and shakers gathered to celebrate a milestone for one of the city’s most influential marketing and communications firms as Nicole Cashman toasted 25 years of Cashman & Associates. Founded in 2001, the agency has grown from a one-woman startup into one of the region’s most recognized lifestyle marketing powerhouses, known for shaping the narrative around Philadelphia’s hospitality, arts, fashion, real estate, nonprofit and civic scenes.

Over the past quarter century, Cashman has built a reputation as the go-to strategist for brands and institutions looking to connect with discerning audiences.

Through strategic PR campaigns, experiential events, influencer engagement and community partnerships, her team has consistently delivered high-visibility results while helping position Philadelphia as a vibrant, forward-thinking destination.

Nicole Cashman was the PR in charge of the opening party for Denim, and had the cool idea to send the invites frozen in a block of ice. 

When I first started PhillyChitChat, my mentor Thom Cardwell, Executive Director Phila LGBTQ Film Festival, introduced me to Michael Klein, and I began contributing party photos and celebrity moments to his Phila Inquirer column – Inqlings (retired column in 2011) . He opened doors I never imagined, including front-row access at major NYC events. One night he got me into a much coveted Nicole Cashman’s party, the opening of G Lounge, and the rest was history. Michael and Nicole took me under their wings and helped me find my place in the rooms and on the red carpets covering the moments Philadelphia cared about.

Nicole Cashman was among the first in Philadelphia to recognize the power of digital voices, launching one of the city’s earliest influencer programs and integrating creators into major campaigns, openings and events well before influencer marketing became standard practice.

Two former City Representatives were at Cashbash 25, Sheila Hess and Melanie Johnson, who served under Mayor Michael Nutter and was the first City Representative I ever met. Seeing her brought me right back to 2008, when I first met her at the opening of Stephen Starr’s Butcher & Singer in Philadelphia, one of the earliest big events I covered for Cashman & Associates (who have represented Starr Restaurants more than 20 years). I was still finding my footing then, camera in hand, wide-eyed and curious, and moments like that helped shape my path covering the city I love.

Pretty in Pink – Michelle Conron Cucci, Senior Vice President & Chief of Staff at Cashman & Associates with the Cashman Girls look on as Nicole addresses friends and family.

The agency’s vision has helped shape campaigns and celebrations across industries, from restaurant openings and hospitality launches to civic initiatives and major cultural programs. Her client roster over the years has included brands and organizations including as I mentioned Starr Restaurants, also Visit Philadelphia, Comcast, the Philadelphia Orchestra, Make A Wish, the Liberty Museum, Work to Ride, Hard Rock Casino, and the Friends of Rittenhouse Square, among many other

Cashman has built a reputation as the go-to strategist for brands and institutions looking to connect with discerning, tastemaking audiences.

The guest list reflected both Cashman’s reach and her reputation. Over the years she has cultivated relationships across media, hospitality, development, fashion, philanthropy and government, positioning herself as both connector and champion of the city’s creative economy

Nicole Cashman played a meaningful role in helping shape my career as a photographer. She invited me to cover her events early on, opened doors, and along the way became both a mentor and a trusted friend. Over the years she has even hosted celebrations for PhillyChitChat, always generous with her support and encouragement. Just as importantly, she has consistently shown up for others, advocating for creatives, nonprofits and emerging voices across the city. That spirit of mentorship, loyalty and community building is at the heart of her legacy and a big reason so many came out to celebrate her milestone.

Thanks xoxo HughE

PS More photos to be seen on my Linkedin, Instagram, CBSPhilly and the May issue of Philly Style Magazine.

Earlier this month I had the pleasure of photographing a very special evening as Les Dames d’Escoffier Philadelphia welcomed the Lunar New Year, officially the Year of the Horse, with an extraordinary 16 course celebration at Bai Wei Restaurant.

Les Dames d’Escoffier Philadelphia is part of an international organization of women leaders in food, beverage, hospitality, and philanthropy who are dedicated to mentorship, education, and supporting the next generation of culinary professionals.

Locally, the chapter plays an important role in Philadelphia’s dining community by uplifting women chefs, restaurateurs, writers, and hospitality innovators while giving back through scholarships and community initiatives. Events like this highlight not only culinary excellence but also the power of collaboration and mentorship within the industry.

The evening’s menu was a remarkable partnership between Dame Susanna Foo and Bai Wei’s Chef Wen He Wang, blending tradition, artistry, and storytelling through each course.

Special guest for the remarkable dinner was NY Dame Grace Young, an award-winning cookbook author and Chinatown activist and humanitarian, shared stories about the good luck food guests were about to enjoy. She is currently partnering with the James Beard Foundation on the #supportChinatown campaign to preserve and protect America’s Chinatowns.

From start to finish, the night felt joyful and celebratory, with Susanna Foo beaming as guests experienced each beautifully presented dish. The raspberry dessert was a standout favorite and a perfect sweet finale to an unforgettable evening honoring culture, community, and culinary leadership.

If you are interested in joining the Philadelphia Chapter “Candidates for membership will be professional women who have demonstrated leadership and achievement in professional and philanthropic capacities and who have been actively engaged full-time for a minimum of five (5) yearsin careers in the food, beverage and/or hospitality industries.” Please include details on the endeavors that make you eligible for membership. HERE