Dylan Lauren celebrated the 16th anniversary of her candy emporium, Dylan's Candy Bar, on October 17 at its New York flagship location on the Upper East Side.
But it wasn’t a typical birthday party. The event also served as a gallery opening and charity auction, showcasing one-of-a-kind candy mosaics that were designed by more than 20 celebrities, including Jessica Alba, Julianne Moore, Jessica Biel, Martha Stewart, and others.
During the evening event, the playful mosaics were displayed on easels throughout the three-story candy store, much like a traditional art gallery. In addition to the sweet artwork, guests, including Ralph and Ricky Lauren, Blair Underwood, Vera Wang, David Burtka, and Lauren Bush Lauren, were able to snack on cupcakes, candy, and signature lollipops, as well as sip on candy-theme cocktails.
The inspiration for the custom candy mosaics came from Lauren herself, who, years ago, had created a seven-foot-long M&M’s mosaic mural for the launch of M&M’s 24 colors.
Proceeds from the sale of each "Sweet 16" piece will benefit the celebrity’s chosen charity. For example, Michael Strahan’s dog portrait, which was made using jelly beans and M&Ms, will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, while Katie Couric’s Rosie the Riveter artwork, which includes chocolate-covered sunflower seeds, will support Stand Up To Cancer.
“In my entire professional career, I can honestly say our Sweet 16 was the most memorable and meaningful event for me on so many levels,” said Lauren, who wanted the celebration to be both fun and philanthropic.
“Firstly, to celebrate with family and friends, who have believed in my dream of opening the world's largest candy emporium and so kindly supported me, was very touching. Then to be able to put an idea I had 20 years ago into action by exhibiting candy mosaics made by true talents and open people's eyes to the beauty and magic of candy through them makes me feel accomplished. But what's most fulfilling is that these one-of-a-kind masterpieces will each benefit charities and actually help us make the world a sweeter place—something we need more now than ever.”
The mosaics will be on display in the store through the end of the year, and are up for auction online until November 10 on the Dylan’s Candy Bar website through a partnership with CharityBuzz.
