Gala 2014 a la Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel

The Ritz- Carlton Laguna Niguel has always been known for elegance so I took a very minimalist approach to adding touches. At the end of the day, no matter how much detail or touches you add to an event- especially a gala, it is all about the cause. As a non-profit hospital, Orange Coast Memorial Medical Center relies strongly on the support from our donors to be able to provide the most advanced technology possible to our patients.

I wanted to add a hint of nautical elements without going overboard with the cheesy anchors and sailboats. Simple elements like tying cocktail linens with a thick rope in a square knot and monkey fist rope balls held table numbers. The amazing Paradise Delight did centerpieces for us out of drift wood, succulents and a few votive candles.

As our VIP guests arrived, they were escorted to a private reception where they enjoyed high end wine, cheese and time with our hospital senior leadership. With a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean and Southern California coastline, guests love the intimate setting. 

As the rest of our guests arrived, the VIP attendees joined the silent auction. We utilized the hybrid BidPal for our silent auction. Our silent auction proceeds exceeded goal by nearly $8,000.  

Guests entered the grand ballroom to music playing and salads pre-set. After the CEO welcomed guests, guests hit the dance floor. Planning the timeline for this event is always a challenge sine this group loves to dance. Event getting them off the dance floor to eat dinner is a challenge. 

Orange Coast Memorial Foundation has been very fortunate to have former NFL Quarterback and Super Bowl champion, Vince Ferragamo' support. This year, he donated his time to come and coach a practice for kids or a community league! Guests loved it! In fact he generously donated it twice! 

The most inspiration part of the evening is when as a staff member you can step back and appreciate every donor who steps up and gives a straight donation.

 A quick look at the best part of the dinner... DESSERT! 













Working with non-profits to host events that will benefit the community is such a blessing. To see this event grow over the last 3 years has been incredible. 

An Evening in Hollywood

On September 28, 2013 in Newport Beach, California the Orange Coast Memorial Foundation hosted their annual Fall Gala at the Island Hotel.

This event was host to nearly 350 guests who enjoyed a silent auction, live auction, live entertainment and fine dining.



Before the festivities began, some of the most loyal donors enjoyed a VIP reception with 100 guests. During this reception, wine, champagne and an array of cheeses were served.  

As the reception came to a close, guests were greeted by some of the talented students from the Orange County School of the Arts.

Marilyn Monroe, Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire

 

Marilyn Monroe, Desi Arnaz and Lucille Ball

As the rest of the guests arrived they were greeted with signature drinks (Champagne cocktails and whiskey sours).  At check in guests were given an escort card (to theme of course!) 

These were a DYI project that I completed using grommets,
black and white striped paper and business size cards
printed by the always fabulous NDM Communications.

When guests entered into the silent auction area they saw something most of them had never experienced- digital bidding! For this event we opted for a company called BidTec, they utilize iPads placed around the room for guests to bid on auction items, look over the program, take photos and more.

Guests enjoyed live performances from Stellar Band during the silent auction while mingling with the student performers from OCSA.



Once guests entered the ballroom they were greeted by students from OCSA to help them find their seats before the festivities began.

Guests entered the room to salads preset on their tables and BidTec IPads placed on the tables for them to continue bidding on silent auction items.

There are few things that make me happier as an event planner than seeing a table fully set and ready for guests, but the best part is hearing guests talk about how much they loved the setting. At the end of the night, guests we taking everything from the centerpieces to the table numbers I created.

As the evening progressed, guests were entertained with live performances, live auction, award presentations, 3 course meal and dancing! 

I want to thank all of my amazing vendors, volunteers, team and guests for making this an amazing event!