Esposito said the Sunglass Soiree title will continue to be used for this event in the future, but each year with have a new sub-theme. For 2010, the secondary theme was “Walking on the Sun.” Decorators transformed the ballroom with a red and orange palette and suspended a 12-foot lighted balloon from the ceiling to look like the sun. Tall lighted columns with simulated flames on top flanked the perimeter of the room, while sunflowers—some topped with sunglasses—served as centerpieces.
In addition to live music from the Malones, the evening’s entertainment included six acts involving fire, from a fire-breathing contortionist to belly dancers performing a fire fan dance and fire sword-swallowers.
The bulk of the revenue—$35,000—came from ticket sales of $250 per person, $400 per couple, or $2,500 per 10-top table. Organizers also sold six cabanas at $3,000 each that were situated on risers with a view of the stage and dance floor and decorated with red lounge furniture. The remainder of the revenue came from a silent auction that offered 45 items. Actor and singer John Schneider, a co-founder of the Children’s Miracle Network, served as the evening’s host and also performed.
