Design House

In recent years, Chick-Fil-A is known to give out a year's supply of free food every time they open a new standalone restaurant.

When the opportunity to participate in their "First 100" Event in Oklahoma City, I prepared myself for 24 hours of camping out in the cold (if I made it as the first 100 in line at the crack of dawn).

Following is a photo journal of my experience, which became much more than simply getting a free supply of chicken sandwiches.

The day started at 5:30 am on Dec 8 and what struck me immediately was the number of people calling out names of staff members they befriended from past events. These 100-sters have been faithful participants for years!

By 6:16 am, my friends and I were told that we made it as the first 100 people in line for the guaranteed "coveted" prize. For me, joining the ranks of other 100-sters made this moment a little special too.

6:23 am - The moment transitioned into the registration of the 100 with military precision, and several doses of cheers, smiles and friendly faces. And instead of simply tagging each person with a number, personalized wristband and cups were given out. First glimpse of how well oiled this campaign is.

7:12 am - The tent-city, as the staff called it, was quickly filling up. The staff has advised us to pitch our tents on the east side of the building to get out of the wind (which I thought was a good call). Then again, since that side is also next to a busy street, another good call to get high street visibility.

Meal times ... Chick-Fil-A is not about to leave us out in the cold with no food and drink. Walking along the drive-through to get our food at the window was a novel experience, along with camping out on the parking lot. Something to talk about when we return to the same restaurant for a meal with friends/family.

Coffee, tea, & water were always available in tent-city, and the bathroom were kept clean the whole time. Free WiFi, access to power outlets and space heaters were also available. Such hospitality will go a long way as we were drawn further into the Chick-Fil-A experience.

Game times ... we were kept entertained throughout the day with games. Through it all, friendships were fostered and relationships deepened. What better way for positive association.

3:48 pm - The staff started taking orders for dinner from their menu (limited but good selections). They could simply continue to dish out burgers at the drive-thru window but they chose not to - I am impressed.

6:59 pm - We enter the restaurant to "order" our dinner so that new staff could be trained to handle the cash register and serve guests. I was a little overwhelmed by the constant flow of staff at our table offering refills, condiments, etc. The staff does that (toned a few levels down) on a daily basis at the restaurant - that's one thing that makes Chick-Fil-A stands out.

7:52 pm onwards - What better way to beat the cold than to dance; cupid shuffle, limbo, macarena, MJ's thriller, electric slide, twist, salsa - you name it.

9:41 pm - And to take it to another level, they served comfort food like chicken noodle soup, chicken salad sandwich and hot chocolate. Okay, sign me up with the fan club.

The Day - Dec 9
5:30 am - We were gently awakened by the staff as we collect our winning ticket, T-Shirt & hat. The media started arriving and interviewing staff and guest about the event.

6:11 am - We got in line that leads into the restaurant where cheering staff, rattling cow bells, and rolling news camera awaits ... and into our hands we received the prize.

My 24-hour experience with Chick-Fil-A has been an eye-opener. It took on a different meaning the very moment I make contact with their staff at the event.

Yes, I will enjoy my 52 meals with friends and family. But more importantly, the spirit and hospitality of Chick-Fil-A has filled a special place in my memory. Will their chicken sandwich taste a little special ... I believe so.