For the 2005 event in New York, Guests passed through Raul Avila's 16- by 12-foot curtain of hand-strung orchids before entering the cocktail reception area.
For the massive gala's 2014 iteration, planners chose a "Bridge to Possibility" theme. Held at the cavernous Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, the event featured screens printed with the New York City skyline and bridges. The screens enclosed the entry hallway that led to the reception space. David Stark Design designed the event.
Studio 54 inspired the look and feel of the Recording Academy's Grammy after-party at the Los Angeles Convention Center in 2011. Curtains made from reflective beads added a vintage touch, and lots of sparkle.
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation celebrated with its annual Breath of Life gala at the National Building Museum in Washington in 2011. Streamers divided the National Building Museum atrium into three spaces.
To separate the perimeter—where cocktails were held—from the dinner area for the event's 2010 iteration, the team hung large lampshades from the ceiling. The pieces measured about two feet high and 22 inches in diameter, and their black and white embellishments were replicated in a pattern projected on the floors. The event again took place at the New York Public Library, with Bakula Design overseeing decor.
In 2006, the gala had an English garden look that tied to the Met's "AngloMania" exhibit of Britain's posh and punk fashion. Event designer David Monn set up 70 tables in separate mini gardens that were hedged by 400 feet of apple trees. The floors were swathed in carpets of spring grass.
Moët & Chandon passed its mini bottles on the red carpet arrivals line.
