Here at our headquarters in Nashville, we’re known for keeping a relatively cool head when a celebrity like Taylor Swift or Vince Gill walks into a restaurant or turns up next to us in line at Whole Foods. Of course, this includes everyone but me.
Such was the case when an official van for Antique Archaeology, the treasure hunting business featured on the History Channel’s “American Pickers,” appeared in a parking lot nearby our office. I kept a close eye on the vehicle until, sure enough, star Mike Wolfe entered the van and ended up driving in front of me in traffic (a coincidence, I swear) for a few blissful miles.
This star encounter got me thinking about all the ways to see one’s favorite reality television heroes in the flesh. You might not know this, but many of them tour the country or host parties or seminars that get you off the couch to catch a real-life glimpse. Read on to find out where!
This is going to seem like the History Channel is the only station my television is tuned to, but I assure you that isn’t the case. “Pawn Stars” airs on Mondays along with “American Pickers,” so it’s inevitable that I end up turning it on early to catch the antics of Gold and Silver Pawn Shop’s Rick, Corey, Chumlee, and Old Man. These guys genuinely know their stuff, so don’t miss the opportunity to ask them how much that sword you have in the attic is really worth.
I took a cake decorating class once (thanks Groupon!) and it pretty much ended with a mass of tear-soaked fondant, so I have a special appreciation for the artists at Carlo’s Bake Shop, featured on the TLC show “Cake Boss.” Fans of the series will be pleased to learn they don’t have to travel to Hoboken, NJ to see owner Buddy Valastro, because he’s on tour right now sharing stories and giving live demonstrations! Maybe he’ll offer up some tips for struggling bakers like me.
Unlike Madison, I’m not quite a dog owner yet, but I’m still entirely too interested in learning new tips to train my future furry friend. For training tricks, there’s no one better than Cesar Millan of television’s “Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan,” who often handles extreme cases of dogs that desperately need rehabilitation. If you’re interested in gaining insight into how he does it, attend one of his Fall/Winter shows!
Why watch your favorite reality television stars from the couch when you can get out and see them live? If you come across more chances to spot the stars in reality, let us know!
