“I Am Giving” Gala at The Executive Hangar

Attendees pulled up to the Executive Hangar tarmac for the Tilly’s Life Center 7th Annual “I Am Giving” Gala where a red carpet was rolled out for arrival photos with small planes as the backdrop. The pan am theme could be seen all around with no detail forgotten. In-flight cocktails and champagne welcomed guests into the event space. The Don Draper, Jet Stream, The Captain, The Propeller, Pan Am Potion, and The Flying Lady signature drinks were named appropriately for the gala’s theme. As variations of classic martinis and other cocktails like a Manhattan and Paloma were shaken and stirred, hors d’oeuvres were tray passed on sleek black platters. Filet & Wild Mushroom Wellingtons, Vegan Artichoke Hearts, Crab Cakes, Glazed Pear & Goat Cheese Tarts, and Seared Ahi on Wonton Chips provided small bites to satisfy guests before dinner. Cocktail tables were draped in red satin and gold sequins and pink velvet chairs were tucked underneath. Two lounge spaces with red, orange and brown leather furnishings created spaces for guests to sit back and relax while they enjoyed their light bites and beverages. A departures sign noted all the cocktail hour activities like a cigar lounge and wine pull and vibrant floral arrangements were placed about completing the decor. As soon as everyone had arrived, the hangar doors opened revealing the dinner setup inside.

Fuchsia and red uplighting illuminated the Executive Hangar as guests found their seats. There were black draped tables with red roses, pink draped tables with pink roses, and orange draped tables with orange roses to match the color scheme all topped with gold rimmed glassware and plates. A live band played as everyone settled into their seats, then thank you speeches and stories were shared while the first salad course was served. Roasted Golden Beet Salad kicked off the meal service and wine filled each glass. Up next, the entree course of Cabernet Braised Short Ribs, Chilean Sea Bass, Mushroom Risotto, Roasted Broccolini, and Heirloom Carrots was served family style. The gala menu was selected by the Tilly’s Life Center team with help from our Event Specialist, Lauren. A delicious Dessert Trio of Chocolate Raspberry Decadence, Gourmet Lemon Square, and Mini Gingerbread Bundt Cakes with Salted Caramel Rum Sauce ended the meal service on a sweet note as guests left nothing behind on their plates. Lastly, attendees bid on fun prizes to benefit the Tilly’s Life Center cause and the extravagant evening ended with a big dance party.

Venue: The Executive Hangar // Catering: Jay’s Catering // Photographer: Callie Biggerstaff // Rentals: Bright Event Rentals & Found Rentals // Draping: Above The Top Events // Linens: Luxe Linen, BBJ Linen, Creative Coverings, Urquid Linens // Plants: SD Foliage // Step & Repeat: Dean Singleton // DJ: DJ Natty Rico // Live Music: Soulville California // Performers: Fortune Entertainment // Cigar Rolling: VB Cigars