The San Francisco Symphony celebrated the start of its 104th season with a salute to the Broadway musical during its Opening Gala on September 24. The celebration's sumptuous surroundings were created by Blueprint Studios, San Francisco's premier event design, production, and custom fabrication firm. The black-tie affair served as a stunning stage for Blueprint Studios to showcase its latest design breakthroughs and trendsetting innovations in the event production industry.
After a stroll down the red carpet, patrons kicked off the evening's festivities with a chic cocktail reception in Davies Symphony Hall. Sprays of hydrangea, orchids, and other exotic blooms were suspended in eye-catching arrangements evocative of kinetic sculptures. Cool aquamarines and soothing neutrals were set off by hints of subtle metallics.
In the Wattis Room, the chamber's carmine walls and boldly patterned red carpeting were reflected by the rose gold of Blueprint Studios' Truffaut chair. Cream cushions, linens, and lounge seating balanced the room's striking color scheme.
The Patron's Dinner was held in a custom-designed tented pavilion. The interior was inspired by the chromatics and contours of the art of Sandro Botticelli and abstract floral geometry of Georgia O'Keeffe. The creamy, neutral palette and undulant curves of Botticelli's Renaissance masterpiece “The Birth of Venus” were reflected throughout the tent's interior. A canopy of shimmering tawny-toned fabric, reminiscent of Venus' golden tresses, was artfully draped overhead. Sinuously shaped tent walls recalled the gently breaking waves of the treasured artwork. Intricately beaded aquamarine pendant lighting and dazzling crystal chandeliers, literally, set the tone—the crystals emitted light that changed color as the evening progressed and the space was transformed into a dance floor. Towering floral centerpieces on the dining tables drew the eye upward; bountiful bouquets cascaded from bronze vases and copper structures of architectural dimensions.
In City Hall, the Symphonix Dinner dazzled 390 guests with a contemporary take on gala decor. Bold blue tapestries punctuated by black and transparent seating and silver accents spoke to the casual yet sophisticated aesthetic.
Under City Hall's iconic rotunda, the 370-seat Supper Gala took decor cues from the pearly marble surroundings. Cream and blush bouquets, light and bright linens, and gold infinity chairs resonated with the classic interior. Two bloom-festooned colossal vases took pride of place on either side of the grand staircase.
The evening culminated in a high-energy street party on one of San Francisco's busiest avenues. Rustic elegance and eco-sophistication permeated the outdoor decor, from reclaimed wood bar installations to polished metal bar tables and silver globe lighting.
The San Francisco Symphony Opening Gala dazzled and entertained close to 2,700 guests for more than seven hours. The progressive, multi-venue event was a feat of event planning, execution, and design.
Blueprint Studios partnered with fellow event professionals Got Light, McCalls Catering & Events, Patina Catering, and Michael S. Hensley Party Rental & Sales Co. to make the night a success.
