Top Shelf Todd Stories
Taryn
Paella makes me think of Todd. I mean, Todd has “a paella guy”! Who else has ‘a paella guy’?
Come to think of it, Todd has “a guy” for just about anything… whether it’s speciality food, liquor, DJs, hotels, cruises, concerts, drivers, charcuterie boards or philanthropy, he’s got “a guy”. And I’m confident this is because anyone who knows Todd, wants to be ‘his guy’.
I’d like to give myself the title of Todd’s “constipation guy”. Anytime that I can chime in on how to keep pooping regularly, I’m your guy. I remember you sending me a thank you gift just because I was happy to recommend some laxatives. That was so unexpected and generous. But that’s who you are; so very generous. You have given your time, energy, money, auctioneering skills, party planning, friendship and love to so many and it has not gone unnoticed. You are a special person Todd. I feel so lucky to know you.
Valentine Family
Todd,
We did our best to capture 11 years of friendship in a few special photos and words but there are also so many more memories locked away in our heart that we just couldn’t find photo proof of.
From the beginnings on Bay View Way to the more recent bourbon tastings at Arcole Court. From dance dads to date nights. From brunching at polo to dancing at Wicked. From costume parties to birthday parties… we have always admired your energy, grace, planning skills, and camaraderie. One of my biggest life regrets will forever be not witnessing your auctioneering skills in person at a gala. I’m sure the videos just didn’t do it justice.
You are a legend Todd. Everyone knows it. Deb asked us to personalize it. What makes you a legend?
Well, we found these two definitions of what a legend is…
-a famous or important person who is known for doing something extremely well
- A legend is someone who leaves behind an unforgettable impression on others. They touch lives, they're remembered, they're cherished. There are all sorts of legends in this world – famous or not. Becoming one means finding your particular role, your calling, following it, and touching others around you.
You are the exact definition Todd. Everything you have done you have done well. A family member. A friend. A professional. An event planner. A neighbor. A party goer. A provider. An auctioneer. A business partner. A board president. A community member. A philanthropist. A temple member. A fighter.
You found your role… your calling… and you followed it and while doing so, you touched others around you. You are known for doing everything you do extremely well. A legend.
Some people work a lifetime at what you accomplished in 49 years and still don’t succeed in any of those domains.
We are honored and humbled to have crossed paths with you. Physically on our street and metaphorically as a cherished part of our village. Privately in moments that only our memories have proof of and publicly at all of the incredible events you have shared with your family and friends.
Thank you for making our lives richer. For the laughs. For your daughters who we love fiercely. For the simple times. For the elaborate parties. For the memories. Someone says Todd Barron and it’s impossible not to grin or burst out in a full smile and remember a flood of reasons as to why you are a legend and always will be.
Love you tons! Insert a rap here about you being a legend. I’ll leave the rapping part to you but I’ll leave you with a little starter. You finish it…
Now this is a story all about how
My life got flipped turned upside down
And I'd like to take a minute, before you run…
I'll tell you how I became king of a town called Wellington!
Jen Wolosoff Bowers
Having grown up with Deb as my first cousin, I could have only hoped she found the purest of love. In fact, she found so much more. Todd has a heart of gold - for his family, for his work, for the people around him. This is evident by the many charities he's invited me to over the years be it in NY or LA. He's always been inclusive with arms wide open. When Todd was coming to Santa Monica almost 2 years ago, he made it a point to meet my boyfriend at the time (now husband) and invited us to a Michelin star restaurant in the area. It was an unbelievable, delicious, experience made better by his company. The way he captivates a room is inspiring. When my husband and I were getting married just some months ago, all the way in California, Todd was adamant about going. It didn't matter that he just went through a procedure, he was going to be there. I cannot tell you how much that meant to us. Todd's positive can-do attitude, jovial spirit, and joie de vivre (joy of life) will forever be the man he is. I feel so grateful to call Todd family all these years and I will always love you.
Pam Tahan
There are so many Barron family memories. Here is one that comes to mind when I think of Todd. Todd is nothing short of Epic and my story takes places at his birthday party weekend at the Hotel Epic Miami. I remember a super fun get-away weekend with friends. On August 26, 2017 Todd arranged a private room at the capital grille in Miami. Always joyful, his smile lit up like fireworks when he received the menu and found out it was also Miami Spice week. That night was the Mayweather vs. McGregor fight and Todd arranged for the private room to have a tv so his friends could watch the match. The thing about Todd that he is the most kind, generous and friendly person. He invited every waiter, busboy, cook… anyone who worked that night to join the celebration and watch the fight. I don’t remember the fight or the meal but I remember the laughter, the generosity, the feeling of community, understanding that although we are all different we all have common values and similarities, and mostly the epicness that is Todd Barron. After all the parties and fun times, he taught us to respect others, share and give what you can and live life to fullest.
JT
Todd, you inspire me to be the best person I can be and to live life to the fullest. I am in awe of your strength and your love for everyone that loves you. How can I pick out just one story about you? Which is the best?
Was it when we first met at Bill's Bachelor Party.
I saw you break dancing one minute and then passed out 10 minutes later only to be break dancing 20 minutes after that?
Or when we went to Amsterdam, and after leaving a coffee shop where we had wonderful, coffee…
Out of nowhere I was pelted in the head with a snowball and there you were behind the bank launching them at me. Full out snowball fight in the Ledisplein.
Or countless nights listening to hip hop?
Or Sara licking the ice cream off the plate when you guys visited me in London.
Or when you gave the speech at my wedding?
Or when you first introduced me to the love of your life Deb?
That is my favorite one. That is the best story of all.
Todd, you are the best friend any person can hope for.
You are an amazing person, my favorite...I Love you!!!