A “magical atmosphere” in the main tent. (Photo by Clay Blackmore)
Champagne and Acrobats
By Sandi R. Hoffman
Sandi R Hoffman LLC, Special Events
As an event planner for the past 19 years, I relish the opportunity to employ visual sleight-of-hand with the transformation of space and design.
Recently, a client hired me to plan their son’s engagement celebration. The challenge was to transform their acres of bucolic Maryland countryside into a spectacular party venue with all the amenities of a luxury hotel.
Our team left no detail unattended to create a wonderful evening. After being greeted by valet parking and waiters with Champagne, guests entered a magnificent circular tent for cocktails where they were treated to a mesmerizing performance by an aerialist. A 16-foot custom-designed ice bar added to the “wow” element. Later, everyone moved to the main tent for dinner and dancing. The intricate lighting and surrounding design – thousands of yards of fabric and ribbon were hung with perfection – created an ambiance best described as “magical.”
While dining on lobster and filet mignon, guests enjoyed yet another aerialist performance, a band from Las Vegas, a DJ, and acoustical violinists. A detailed timeline was essential to ensuring that the timing of the event appeared seamless.
