Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Derby Day!!



We had a couple of great Derby Parties this year and below are some shots that we got from one of them. These people take the Derby very, very seriously- to the point of having Kentucky Derby Programs overnighted to their front door the day of the race. Warning- do not get between these people and the fence!











Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Mayor's Beautification Program

Tampa Port Authority

May 2009

Once again we were part of a wonderful fundraising effort by Tampa's Mayor's Beautification Program. This year's party and "See It To Believe It" Auction were a great success. This year's tropical theme was centered around our beautiful, local beaches. Below are a few shots we captured.

Here the Island God watches over our Dips Station. He looks hungry, huh?



Lauren Balden and the "Beach Divas", courtesty of Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center.


















Friday, May 15, 2009

Princess Bride


Joyela & Kenneth
Ringling Museum Courtyard

In late April we had the pleasure of working at the Ringling Museum in Sarasota. They have so many great venues there, but we were in my personal favorite - the courtyard. Plus, we had our own Princess Bride - Joyela who was marrying Kenneth, a Prince of Nigeria.

The Pewter and Silver color scheme, accented with fuschia lighting was backdropped with panels of white drape down the length of one of the loggias. Rectangular guest tables lined the loggia overlooking grassy fields of white furniture and a white dance floor, all lit in pink. African Dancers provided entertainment during the cocktail hour proceeding dinner.




And, as the sun was setting, servers in white dinner jackets formed a precise line to deliver a synchronized presentation of three courses.


Menu

Trio of Maryland Crab Cakes, Chipotle Mac'n Cheese,
and Grilled Shrimp on Plantain Mash

Mixed Field Greens Salad
Champagne- Vanilla Bean Vinaigrette


Duet of Grilled Filet over Potato Gruyere Gratin and Asparagus

and
Chilean Sea Bass with a Tropical Fruit Salsa



All of this was followed by a beautiful red and silver cake on rhinestone and jewel studded tiers, created by Chocolate Pi.





And then, finally, a Dessert Reception followed with an assortment of sweets and savories, including Chocolate Dipped Cheesecake Lollipops, Chocolate Covered Strawberries, Gourmet Cheeses, Beef Sliders, and Beef Empenadas.



The couple and their guests danced the night away under the rhinestone accented columns over a white dance floor from Concept Bait. It was truly a magical night!

Thanks to Phillip Lloyd Photography and Limelight Photography for the wonderful pictures!





























Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Catering By Design is working on its new Facebook page. This is still a work in progess and we will let you know when it is up and running. To all of our wonderful industry associates and clients who look at our blog- please become a Facebook fan. And send me helpful tips- I'm a little lost!