The opening session event incorporated traditional performances and Mayan rituals such as burning candles and offerings.
Photo: Paul Morse
Gifts for the Good Life also created eight evolving icons for the event, which were rooted in traditional Mexican iconography with a modern twist. The symbols including a moon and sun were incorporated into the stage backdrop.
Photo: Paul Morse
“Our intention was to have elements of art woven throughout the experience,” Arak-Kanofsky said. “We invited our inaugural artists in residence to bring a live performance aspect to the event decor.” Ken Jones Jr. and Ron Morris collaborated on a 21-foot-tall “MACROme” (named that because of its size) macramé piece for the entrance of the convention center. The piece evolved over the course of the conference and was completed in time for the gala.
Photo: Genevieve de Manio
Jones Jr. and Morris also collaborated with Gifts for the Good Life on a hand-painted interactive photo booth with painted accessories and outfits for the Day of the Dead dessert party.
Photo: Laura Dee
During the dessert party, an artist created a colorful painting on site.
Photo: Paul Morse
After the party, guests received a “Revival Kit” as a turndown gift. The sugar skull-theme tin, which was designed by Gifts for the Good Life and individually punched and created by hand by a Mexican artisan, contained traditional and non-traditional hangover recovery items as well as a candle.
Photo: Laura Dee
The gala’s florals, linens, and tablescapes in deep purples and blues were provided by Canteiro Weddings and Nuage Designs.
Photo: Paul Morse
The Meridian Ball
This year, the nonprofit organization Meridian International Center’s annual Meridian Ball, held at the Meridian House in October in Washington, featured a Latin-inspired design, including tropical flowers, cigar rollers, colorful paper cutouts, and a doughnut wall with Mexican hot chocolate. After dinner, guests headed to the dance floor, in a tent from Select Event Group that was decorated with papel picado (decorative Mexican craft paper cutouts) and rustic light fixtures.
Photo: Rodney Bailey
