When I started my term as VP of Communications for the ISES NJ North Chapter, I learned that in the 12 years in Chapter history, there had never been a Gala held. I put forth to the Board of Directors the idea of hosting a Gala to honor and recognize their Chapter members for their accomplishments in the special events industry. With the support of the Board, we developed a Gala Committee, and ISES NJ North hosted its first Garden State Gala on June 8th, themed “Bling it On! Honoring Those Who Shine”, which was communicated through the invitations, décor and even the awards themselves, with diamonds and crystals galore!
The event turned out to be a spectacular evening, with attendees including friends, family and a huge support from fellow ISES Northeast Region Chapters, ISES Rhode Island, ISES NY Metro, and ISES DC. My dear friend Sir Andrew Larris, from the ISES DC Chapter and Event Host for Andy Kushner Entertainment, (and former New Jersey-ite!) came to host our Chapter’s first Gala. Andrew kept the crowd entertained and excited, and treated us to some sweet dance moves on the dance floor when CTO Artists AREA 51 band performed! The evening was a great opportunity to meet and mingle with old friends and new, and to celebrate a successful year.
The evening turned out to be full of unexpected surprises for me! The Brower Power Design Team took home a win for Best Event Design/Décor ( a weighty etched crystal diamond!) for an event we designed last May, “iMAX Experience” at the unique Cradle of Aviation Museum, and I was honored with a President’s Award from ISES NJ North Chapter President, Dennis Telischak, for my work as VP of Communications of the ISES NJ North Chapter. This included a complete rebranding and new marketing campaign for the chapter including a new website, new newsletter, and new eblasts the chapter sends out as monthly meeting invitations. What a great year it was!
But…… just when I thought the evening couldn’t get any better…………
Part of the evening’s festivities was a diamond raffle sponsored by the luxury jeweler, Jewels of Ocean. One hundred percent of the raffle proceeds went to support the SEARCH Foundation, which my dear friend and Honoree of the evening, Michael Cerbelli, President of Special Events at Total Entertainment, serves as the Chairman. Our Chapter was so proud to be able to present Michael with a check of $1,400 that was raised that evening for SEARCH!! Unexpectedly and unbelievably, I turned out to be the winner of the diamond raffle!!!
It truly was a magical evening for me – an incredible night, celebrating an amazing year. But stay tuned… We’ve got more great events coming up this summer, and another year of ISES ahead of us – this time as President-Elect for the New Jersey North Chapter!
Hugs,
Brower Power!
