From the moment guests arrived for the High Stakes at the Sands benefit at the Harbour Ridge Yacht and Country Club, they knew they were in for something different. Performers in giant Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Liza Minnelli heads greeted guests as they entered, and then posed for photos with them by Bob Dobens of Photo Fantasies. And since this event raised money for the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast, therapy dogs and a cat showed off their social skills by posing for photos, as well.A silent auction area was filled with unique items, each creatively displayed. For example, a gift certificate for a workout with a bodybuilder featured a three-dimensional photo cutout of trainer Mr. World with a bottle of Propel water wrapped with a tape measure. Exclusive tickets to a $500-per-person Beach Boys concert were displayed with a beach ball and a blown-up photo of the band.
Two showgirls—dressed in all-white top hats, tails, white satin leotards, and white gloves—provided some extra eye candy dazzle during the cocktail reception; Rafael and Juliana Productions provided them. Additional standouts: A "Muttini" bar offered specialty martinis, and the dance floor was framed by a 14-foot-high by 25-foot-wide theatrical backdrop, provided by Grosh Scenic Rentals, that depicted the famed Las Vegas Strip.
During dinner, guests were entertained by a drinking and smoking Dean Martin impersonator who engaged them with his singing and banter. A Marilyn Monroe impersonator provided after-dinner entertainment, especially for Eventmakers International owner and benefit co-chairman George Coates. Dressed in a pink satin evening gown with long pink gloves, a white boa, and plenty of diamonds, she sat on Coates' lap and cooed into his ear, much to the delight of all the guests. Both impersonators were also provided by Rafael and Juliana Productions.
A fast-paced eight-item auction was conducted by Elliot Paul and Associates, who successfully tapped one donor for $42,000 for an original painting donated by Jerry Rose. Guests also enjoyed playing blackjack and roulette with professional dealers from Deeann Prieto Dealers.
—Bobby Killgore
Photos: Bob Dobens of Photo Fantasies
The dining tables featured glass cylinder centerpieces filled with rawhide dog bones topped with a beige shade and an LED light at the base to provide extra illumination.
Dana Coates designed a strolling table, putting a fresh spin on selling raffle tickets from baskets.
Performers in giant Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Liza Minelli heads greeted guests as they entered and posed for photos.
E & J Cigars rolled Cuban cigars during the cocktail hour.
A Las Vegas-inspired backdrop was supplied by Grosh Scenic Rentals.
