With the turbulent economy and serious topics like health care being debated by presidential candidates, some organizations just want guests to have fun. This idea was a big part of the Young Friends of the A.S.P.C.A.'s Shaggy Dog gala last night. Although the event raised money to put an end to puppy mills and other forms of animal cruelty, the evening was also about disco.
Held in the lobby of the IAC Building, the late-night event was organized by the A.S.P.C.A.'s director of special events, Jaimee Bloom, and featured 1970s music, a bit of Pop Art decor, and a lot of dancing. More than 550 guests turned out for the night, which was hosted by honorary chair Katie Lee Joel and sponsored by True Religion Brand Jeans. Shelter dogs also made an appearance, touring the party with handlers and posing for photos on a daybed beside the step-and-repeat.
To add a little color to the modern space, the planning team brought in event designer Ed Libby, who used the pink and blue of the invitation to create the look. Large flower-shaped pieces made of Plexiglas decorated the bars and the DJ area, while pink and blue faux-fur pillows contrasted with the white vinyl and leather furnishings.
Libby also embedded the invitation into some tabletops and the Lucite trays that Taste Caterers used to serve drinks. The designer even created the napkins, which featured some of the organization's favorite quotes, including one from Abraham Lincoln: "I am in favor of animal rights as well as human rights. That is the way of a whole human being."
A silent auction raised funds on one side of the space. The spread of items—from autographed sports equipment and signed artwork to closet consultations and private jet tours—drew crowds. Overall, the fund-raiser was one of the most successful for the organization, raising more than $100,000.
