Sunday, November 17, 2013

An Evening of Extravagance, Opus Ball 2013

One of the coolest parts of my job at the hotel is that I get a behind the scenes view of a variety of events.  I have been fortunate enough to see these events from almost every side whether I was cooking for one, serving for another, or even organizing.  Last night, I got to put on my organizing hat and went to work along with a few others to make sure the event timing was just right.

The Opus ball is a charity ball to help fund the symphony.  For the past five years the Capital Hotel has been the host of this event.  During the event the hotel was shut down to the public and transformed into a space fit for such a grand occasion.  The hotel alone is absolutely stunning without much decor, but once they added the gorgeous beaded linens to all the tables, the spectacular flower arrangements, the scrumptious food, beautiful gowns, and harmonious music, what was created was nothing short of enchanting. I have never been to such a prestigious event. Not that I wouldn't be invited (haha), you just usually need to have generous pockets, and being a broke almost college graduate, it seems as if my pockets are almost sewn shut for some reason.  For that, I am glad I got to experience the event from some aspect.  

The evening started off with appetizers while everyone mingled and bid on the silent auction items that were donated for the affair.  Everyone looked elegant in their tuxes and ball gowns. It was interesting to see all the different colors, styles, and jewelry the women had on.  Some choices were more "interesting" than others. About 7 o'clock the attention was drawn to the platform set up in the center of the lobby.  On stage the chair's for the symphony introduced the evening and then handed the microphone over to the host and the auctioneer for the live auction. The live auction items ranged from a fancy stay at the hotel for you and your closest friends including dinner and tickets to the symphony, to tickets to the Masters in Augusta or a trip to Cabo. There were one of a kind pieces of jewelry and even your chance to conduct the symphony.  No matter what it was, it was sure to be exciting!  Immediately following the auction was dinner.  Dinner included a four course meal that was fit for a king!  Below are pictures and a description of each course. The night concluded with dancing to the tune of a 24 piece band.  It was a night to remember for sure and an event planners dream. 

One thing I think I will take away from this event is that when you stage an event like this and you plan for everything and cover all your bases. If something happens to change things slightly it isn't that big of a deal. The ball went off with out a hitch and it was probably one of the most beautiful parties I have seen.  

Hope these pictures and my words can help take you there! 

-Rachel  
Before the event! 

Tables in the ballroom.  It looked like a snowflake ball!



Set up in the bar and grill before the tables were set.
Ashley's remained the same decor because it is already elegant and people enjoy it remaining the same. 
The two banquet rooms upstairs were set up exactly like the ballroom except with gold table cloths instead of silver. 


The two interns ready to work the ball!  Kelly has become a great friend during this internship.
The outside of the hotel before hand. 
The red carpet was rolled out.



Let the fun begin! 
The chair's of the symphony!
Yellow Fin Tuna Tartare with Avocado
Basil Sorbet
Slow Cooked Flat Iron Steak with Butternut Squash and Red Wine Sauce
Pecan Kitt Katt with Caramel Sauce
The Opus emblem on the chocolate.


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