Hosted a Spelling Bee
because, of course.
Hello all my 100+ readers: thanks for tuning in.
If you read my last Substack article (I say “article” because it makes me feel like a legitimate journalist, please indulge me!!!!), you know that my job occasionally lets me do some very fun, very cool things.
The kind of events I would absolutely go to on my own and think, hey, this is pretty fucking cool!
That said, did I ever imagine that planning a spelling bee would be part of my actual job? Certainly not. But also, makes perfect sense in a lot of ways. Explain later.
First and foremost, huge thanks to Cazzie David for being immediately on board with this slightly unhinged yet perfect idea of Matt Starr’s, and for rallying some very brave friends to take part in Substack’s first ever spelling bee.
Also, shoutout to my wonderful coworkers and collaborators Matt and Kylea, who found the magical Bob Baker Marionette Theater in Highland Park. Yet another place I never expected to find myself on a Tuesday night at age 37.
And honestly, when was the last time you went to a spelling bee? For me, I can confidently say never.
We somehow ended up with a lineup so good I literally cannot believe it either.
Truly felt like a fever dream.
Specifically: Nicole Richie (icon), Drew Tarver, Jason Stewart, Alex Edelman (spelling bee winner!), Jamie Mizrahi, The Shaker by Jedidiah Jenkins, Brontez Purnell, Jacqueline Novak, and Karley Sciortino.
Zero notes. Truly one of the most fun nights. Cazzie is an elite game host. Here’s to more Substack adult game nights in 2026 :)
Also, VOGUE thought it was cool too.
And finally - shout out Paris Mumpower for all of the beautiful photos - especially these polaroids which are everything.
