Following cocktail hour guests moved into the ballroom which was elegantly decorated with three long rectangular tables with beautiful black and white linen and black napkins. Holly Chapple (http://www.hollychappleflowers.com/) provided an assortment of gorgeous tall and low floral arrangements. Tall branches with hanging crystals, little snowflakes and votive candles hung from the branches as well as smaller, burlap wrapped arrangements with whites and browns decorated the tables. Mercury glass votive candles and silver pillar candle stands with ivory candles decorated the centers of every table. With the dim lights and the beautiful floral arrangements, the room looked magical!
Guests enjoyed a plated dinner provided by Occasions Caterers led by Joel Wolke (202-454-7824; jwolke@occasionscaterers.com). Dinner was started off with a lobster bisque followed by a choice of fish or beef. Later, a beautiful dessert station was setup in the entry hallway which featured mini red velvet cakes; mini apple pies; and other assorted pastries and desserts. Occasions Caterers provided ultimate professional service. This was one of the best corporate events we have seen in a long time. The food, presentation and professionalism from the staff was outstanding!
Following dinner the company had a small awards ceremony where they awarded employees with plaques and gifts, along with their ultimate award - Employee of the Year. After the awards guests enjoyed a fun filled night of dancing and karaoke; casino games featuring black jack tables, roulette and craps; a photobooth for guests to take silly pictures in; and horse drawn carriage rides provided by Harmon's Horse & Carriage (http://www.harmonscarriages.com/). Guests had 'play' money to use on the casino games and were rewarded with tickets in which they could enter to win the raffle prizes. The prizes were awarded at the end of the night which some included a Flip video camera, an Amex gift card, Washington Capitals tickets, a kindle and many more great prizes! A beverage station was set in the entry hall where guests could get a take home cup full of white hot chocolate, hot chocolate, hot cider or coffee along with them on the carriage ride.
The evening was filled with great food, dancing and many laughs. We thank all the professionals who helped make this evening a great success. It was a gorgeous event. We wish everyone a very happy holiday and happy new year!!