This week's roundup includes bright red Twinkies in Atlanta, illuminated cherry blossom trees in Washington, dinner on a tennis court in the California desert, and a bar back made out of paintbrushes in Brooklyn.
The festival partnered with landscaping firm Land Design to bring the outdoors in with an illuminated cherry blossom tree at the center of the bar in the lower oculus, creating a modern interpretation of hanami, the Japanese tradition of reveling in the blooming of the cherry blossom trees.
Established 25 years ago, the Allie Awards recognize Atlanta event companies. Awards are doled out in categories such as design, production, and planning, and this year's ceremony was held March 6 at the Georgia Aquarium. The event's theme, “Xperience the Elements,” played out in three themed environments that channeled earth, water, and fire. For the water-inspired space, Your Event Solutions created a 16-foot-long table with a built-in water feature.
Wolfgang Puck's after-party desserts, inspired by fire, included a variation on Twinkies made with red velvet cake.
Although the massive BNP Paribas Open draws nearly half a million tennis spectators to the Southern California desert—selling out hotels all over the Palm Springs area—the sporting event recently drew just 50 guests to one very intimate dinner. And it took place center court of the Indian Wells Tennis Garden stadium. Nobu created dishes that paired with Moët champagnes for the March 20 event.
The Pink Tie Party, which serves as the unofficial kickoff of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, celebrated its 10th year at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center on March 18. This year, DJ Sharkey's booth moved to above the center of the main bar.
Elegance remains a popular aesthetic for weddings, baby showers, and other personal celebrations. For example, an elderflower champagne cocktail with an edible flower garnish in crystal coupe glasses, accompanied by a large crystal punch bowl on a vintage gold bar cart, was presented at the Toast the Trends event hosted by the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago and bridal company Elaya Vaughn by Kate Pankoke in September.
Vans, the sneaker and sportswear brand, celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. To mark the milestone, the brand launched its “House of Vans” concept in 10 international markets this month. At the New York event, 500 guests went home with customized Vans sneakers.
Guests are guaranteed a good time at playful events featuring unexpected elements. For example, for an art-theme event, Brooklyn, New York-based floral, decor, and production company Birch Events created the bar’s backdrop out of all-white paintbrushes.
Many event vendors and hosts are forgoing overly polished and posh parties for the elegantly undone nature of the bohemian aesthetic. For example, The Los Angeles-based Seed Floral Interactive offers a flower cart, which can be branded or painted any color.
Beets may have gotten their start as a staple in rustic grub, but lately the humble root vegetable has been making appearances on lots of catering menus. For example, the beet salad by executive chef Tanya Baker at the Boarding House in Chicago features herbed goat cheese, cashew streusel, and a carrot reduction.
