So far this month of September I have had the pleasure of participating in and attending two Galas. What was refreshing about both of them was the casual nature of the events. The theme for the Boys and Girls Club of Greenwich was a College Tailgate event where guests were encouraged to wear their Alma Mater apparel. The food was served stadium style and they even offered keg beer in Solo cups during dinner! It was a huge success! Congratulations to the BGCG, their committee and Watson’s Catering for such a natural and relaxed theme. The guests all embraced it and it worked so well with the season.
The Wall Street Challenge, now in its 20th year features a “fun and relaxed atmosphere that allows for Tennis viewing and socializing.” This year the event was blessed with outstanding weather to enjoy both tennis and cocktails, bountiful and delicious hors d’oeuvres, and great raffle and live auction items all under a moonlit sky. It was a serene relaxing setting for an enjoyable evening to raise funds for Ovarian Cancer Research Fund Alliance.
In this week’s mail, I got invitations to two more galas! The Bartlett Arboretum and Gardens is hosting a Flower Power Benefit, featuring a 60s theme. And the gala for the Audubon of Greenwich is celebrating it's 75th Anniversary The invitation clearly states, “Casual Attire-Flat Shoes Recommended.”
I love the casual, relaxed and playful tones of these events that touch on nostalgia and getting back to nature and the basics of life: joy and giving. Not all events have to be grand. The grand ones stretch our imaginations as to what is possible and they are truly amazing. But we all can make memories and spread joy while relaxing and enjoying friends and supporting the activities and organizations we love. I hope you have the opportunity to attend and support your favorite charity or nonprofit organization’s event.
In the spirit of casual entertaining and activities that bring you joy, who do you know that you have not seen in a while that you should take the time to enjoy their company? If you would like the assistance of a chef or service staff to allow you to focus on your guests, it would be my pleasure to work with you to create your own casual, joyful memories.