2016 Gala

A tent behind Villa Firenze was designed as an Italian piazza with flooring that mimicked colorful Italian tile. The pattern, created for the event, also was used in the program book.

Fruit and flower centerpieces from Jack H. Lucky Floral Designs topped the tables.

Ferrari and Maserati automobiles flanked the entrance of the Italian Embassy, known as Villa Firenze, and a patterned projection designed to show off the home's architecture lit the front of the residence.

A dessert buffet offered treats from several regions of Italy including crostata di crema al limone and salame di cioccolato from Emilia-Romagna as well as tiramisù and biscotti from Tuscany.

With the event taking place in a tent, several design elements were intended to make it feel almost like an outdoor event. Greenery and tile in a piazza added to the look.

Fruit played heavily into the decor, with large urns of lemons, plums, and grapes anchoring buffet tables.

Guests could serve themselves drinks from a limoncello station that featured several brands of the liqueur. The event also had a gelato cart, espresso bar, and wine-tasting area.

Since this year's event fell close to Easter, chocolatier Terracocoa created oversize Easter egg serving dishes with several flavors of chocolate confections inside. One was set up in the home with another in the reception tent.

Members of the Washington National Opera's Domingo-Cafritz Young Artist Program performed classic Italian opera arias in the parlor as guests entered.

Lighting designed for the backyard landscaping provided guests with a view all the way to Rock Creek Park.

GBK hosted a lounge including gifts and services on Friday and Saturday at the L’Ermitage Hotel in Beverly Hills.