kristen baughman taber

FOUNDER

Kristen Baughman is the founder of Tabletop Media Group. Native to the Carolinas, she received a degree in Extension Education with a focus in Nutrition from North Carolina State University. She also received a Master of Science degree in Extension Education with a focus in Agricultural Leadership.

Working for the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services coordinating events for the Sustainable Local Food Advisory Council and serving as a Food Safety Outreach Coordinator led her to become even more passionate about the food industry. During her time at the NCDA&CS she created a popular 43 Day Local Food Challenge Blog, which led to a food blogging opportunity with the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitor's Bureau.

Her varied career after university led to a social media marketing and public relations opportunity with the Got To Be NC Competition Dining Series. This new role spurred a career shift to focus on media as it relates to the hospitality, food, agriculture and beverage industries.

She later started a popular food blog and social media consulting company, Gadabout Food in May 2012. After working in Raleigh, North Carolina for three years, she spent two years in New York City consulting for Shutterstock, Taste Talks, Northside Festival, Swig and other clients. Kristen decided to return to Raleigh, North Carolina in July 2016 to rebrand Gadabout Food, realizing the power of a solid team, thus, the company morphed into Tabletop Media Group.

Adventurous and passionate, Kristen has traveled more than 35 countries to explore the different cultures and food options around the world. In her free time, you can find her relaxing outside with her dogs Cheerwine, Tres and Doc or at a great restaurant with her husband, Zayne.