The Royal Ontario Museum's new Michael Lee-Chin Crystal not only served as the venue for the annual fund-raiser hosted by the museumโs Young Patronsโ Circle on Saturdayโit provided the inspiration for the event's "PROM: Crystalized" theme, too. The organizationโs third annual fund-raiser was its first in the Crystal. In honour of the occasion, organizers dressed the venue in silver metallic decor, served crystal-inspired drinks, and showcased Swarovski jewels.
โThis event is an effort by the Young Patronsโ Circle to significantly contribute to the ROM and launch a dynamic party unlike anything else,โ said Sarah Bywater, the development officer for the organization of more than 450 members. โHaving a party in this space is special. We get to blow the dust off the old feelings often associated with a museum and have an unbelievable party.โA black carpet led guests past event sponsor Hyundaiโs 2009 Genesis, which was lit by spotlights outside the museum's Bloor Street entrance. Inside, a metallic balloon archway created the entrance to a cocktail space accented by silver bars, ice sculptures, and showcases of Swarovski's newest crystal pieces. Tables circled by silver chairs, topped with metallic tablecloths, and centered with elegant crystal vases holding white rose bouquets dressed the dining area in the Hyacinth Gloria Chen Crystal Court.
The ROM's executive chef, Caesar Guinto, prepared hors d'oeuvres for the 200 guests, who dined on a meal created by Ted Corrado, the much-watched chef de cuisine of the museumโs new C5 restaurant. The menu included paella, potato-crusted vindaloo, eggplant masala, and spiced Dorset lamb tenderloin.
Guests moved into the adjacent Samuel Hall Currelly Gallery following the meal to allow for the dining area to be transformed into a lounge. There, makeup artists offered touch-ups and fortune tellers revealed the future. Canadian singer-songwriter Kyle Riabko performed at the after-party and dance.
โThis event is an effort by the Young Patronsโ Circle to significantly contribute to the ROM and launch a dynamic party unlike anything else,โ said Sarah Bywater, the development officer for the organization of more than 450 members. โHaving a party in this space is special. We get to blow the dust off the old feelings often associated with a museum and have an unbelievable party.โA black carpet led guests past event sponsor Hyundaiโs 2009 Genesis, which was lit by spotlights outside the museum's Bloor Street entrance. Inside, a metallic balloon archway created the entrance to a cocktail space accented by silver bars, ice sculptures, and showcases of Swarovski's newest crystal pieces. Tables circled by silver chairs, topped with metallic tablecloths, and centered with elegant crystal vases holding white rose bouquets dressed the dining area in the Hyacinth Gloria Chen Crystal Court.
The ROM's executive chef, Caesar Guinto, prepared hors d'oeuvres for the 200 guests, who dined on a meal created by Ted Corrado, the much-watched chef de cuisine of the museumโs new C5 restaurant. The menu included paella, potato-crusted vindaloo, eggplant masala, and spiced Dorset lamb tenderloin.
Guests moved into the adjacent Samuel Hall Currelly Gallery following the meal to allow for the dining area to be transformed into a lounge. There, makeup artists offered touch-ups and fortune tellers revealed the future. Canadian singer-songwriter Kyle Riabko performed at the after-party and dance.
Photo: Gary Beechey for BizBash
Photo: Gary Beechey for BizBash
Photo: Gary Beechey for BizBash
Photo: Gary Beechey for BizBash
Photo: Gary Beechey for BizBash
Photo: Gary Beechey for BizBash
Photo: Gary Beechey for BizBash
Photo: Gary Beechey for BizBash
Photo: Gary Beechey for BizBash