Arat was responsible for the event's conception and planning, as well as deciding which jewels to bring in from Rome. Among the more remarkable items was a diamond necklace circa 1930 that stood in the center of the main room, lit from all sides. Enclosed within an Italian-made custom case—which was designed to match the aesthetic of the Bulgari shops—the necklace could be disassembled into four equally impressive ornamental pieces. "All the pieces shown were vintage, spanning seven decades and carefully chosen to demonstrate the skill and evolution of Bulgari," Arat said.
Trak, the designer for Bulgari events worldwide, implemented his ideas and concepts for the event's décor, while Rodriguez provided the furnishings. As per Trak's intent, images of Bulgari's stunning jewels were projected in every room—not to mention the outside entrance. Using their own furniture, which Rodriguez designed, 2R created several lounge spaces throughout the four areas of the studios featuring white couches and cube-shaped, color-changing plexi end tables. The color-changing motif extended to the lighting, with PRG keeping the rooms under different hues throughout the evening. Cymbidiums, courtesy of White Tulip, were placed throughout the venue in bud vases and on cocktail tables.
The space was structured to create a main reception room, followed by two side rooms that, divided by a thin hallway, led to the grand dance arena. Inside the room, orange drapes hung from the walls. On the stage, three larger plexi pieces were set up to create the DJ stand, where Tracy Young—who plays at many Bulgari events—played for Florida jewel enthusiasts. Behind her, a vignette of Bulgari-clad fashionistas and celebrities was projected for the crowd to see.
Keeping the attendees well fed and hydrated, New York-based Acquolina served up an assortment of Italian appetizers and fruit-inspired drinks. Although delicious, it was the presentation of the hors d'oeuvres themselves that satisfied more than the guests' appetites. Yolanda Garretti of Acquolina explained, "The food was served on a wicker plate adorned with textured stones specifically chosen to complement each appetizer." Sesame tuna tartare on cucumber, for instance, came atop ocean blue stones with a cymbidium; cured beef rolls with cheese and pistachios stood on larger, gray stones. Champagne flowed freely, as did Bellinis. Named after Nicola Bulgari's well-known adoration of Buick cars, the "Buick"—a rum and fresh passion fruit cocktail—was the big hit of the evening.
Even though the constant projections and the many encased jewels whet the appetites of countless wallets, none of the jewelry was up for sale. Guests wanting to drop some cash were invited to do so at the silent auction. A pair of Jimmy Choo shoes previously worn and autographed by Madonna, and Gloria Estefan's bongo drums were among the fund-raising items. All proceeds of the auction went to the Holtz Children's Hospital at UM/Jackson Memorial Medical Center.
The evening—exquisite and fun—was carefully crafted and polished to capture Bulgari's true gem quality.
