Ronald McDonald House Toronto hosted a "Holiday Chic: Home for the Holidays" gala on Thursday night at the Carlu. The fund-raiser attracted 378 guests and was the first event for the new house that opened on November 18. Decor, while festive, was elegant and elevated. "It had to be chic," said Kathleen Nakonechny, associate at McNabb Roick Events.
The party theme played off of a Ronald McDonald House fund-raiser last summer, which had a "Construction Chic" theme to reflect its building mode. When asked about his inspiration, Roick laughed. "Glitter," he said. “We wanted to go away from red and green.” The dining room was decked in red and gold, from the lighting to the gold-sequined tablecloth. A custom lighting display with giant snowflakes and glittering gold disco balls hung over the dance floor.
Entertainment was a focus of the evening. In the reception space, guests were greeted by a ballerina dancing inside a large, blow-up snow globe. During dinner, Airbourne 11, Toronto All-Star Big Band, and High Park Choirs of Toronto performed on stage, playing classic holiday and winter-themed music. Bellosound took over after dinner.
The event raised $360,000 and included a raffle for Tiffany jewelry and a silent auction at every table for the centrepieces. Funds went to the Ronald McDonald House, which provides low-cost accommodations for out-of-town families with children who require medical treatment in Toronto.
Photo: Chris Dale for Ronald McDonald House Toronto
In the reception space, guests were greeted by a ballerina dancing in a blow-up snow globe.
Photo: Chris Dale for Ronald McDonald House Toronto
Faux Christmas trees and wrapped presents added to the festive decor in the reception space.
Photo: Chris Dale for Ronald McDonald House Toronto
The dining room was lit in red-and-white lights.
Photo: Chris Dale for Ronald McDonald House Toronto
Gold-sequined tablecloths added shine, and menus at every plate looked like an ornament, tied with a ribbon at the top.
Photo: Chris Dale for Ronald McDonald House Toronto
Gold and silver ornaments and candy acted as centrepieces in the dining room. Each table could participate in a silent auction, and the highest bidders took home the centrepieces.
Photo: Chris Dale for Ronald McDonald House Toronto
A lighting display built with gold mirror balls and over-size snowflakes hung over the dance floor. The mirror balls sent gold reflections across the dining room.
Photo: BizBash
Airborne 11, a group that performed on TV show Canada Sings, sang during dinner.
Photo: Chris Dale for Ronald McDonald House Toronto
Guests bought raffle tickets for a chance to win Tiffany jewelry.
Photo: Chris Dale for Ronald McDonald House Toronto
