Big Night, Big Recap

Ladies and Gentlemen, the recap you’ve been waiting for!  As the press profoundly described, Big Night 2011 was, well, big.  Once again, we designed and produced Big Brothers Big Sisters of Massachusetts Bay’s iconic annual gala at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center.

And with a them as playful as Mardi Gras – the decor opportunities were endless!  Upon arrival, guests were greeted by giant, fan powered “dancing” purple and green inflatable fly guys at the BCEC entrance.  Once guests made their way upstairs, they were instantly transported to Bourbon Street without leaving Boston city limits.  A lavish entryway featuring the Mardi Gras king and queen travelled all the way from New Orleans to welcome the guests.

The pre-function space was transformed into an authentic New Orleans street fair with masks, jesters and parade floats delivered straight from Louisiana!  The main focal point of the cocktail space was a life-size float draped in bold fabric which featured costumed dancers and provided a festive backdrop for the bars.

Finally, it was time to enter the ballroom for a celebrity chef infused dinner!  Guests enjoyed a Creole-inspired menu designed by local area chefs Michael Schlow, Andrea & Seth Raynor, Joanne Chang and Chris Schlesinger.

Four separate styles of centerpieces adorned alternating tables, mimicking the color-scheme and theme from the reception.  Noteworthy details included playful Jester chair covers, feathered centerpieces which added height and color and miniature New Orleans street signs rounded out the extravagant decor.

Headlining entertainers Michael Franti and the Neville Brothers kept the crowd rocking on the packed dance floor all night long.

Masks and beads galore – it was a great BIG night!

Big Night Preview

We’re still waiting on the event photos from Saturday’s twelfth annual Big Night to support Big Brother Big Sister of Massachusetts Bay, but we can’t help but give you a sneak peek of what is arguably one of Boston’s most elaborate annual events of the year!  Here are a few before shots (thank you Arthur at Style Studio!) and a snippet of Michael Frante’s performance that Jill caught on video – he was awesome.

Video: Michael Franti at Big Night

For more details, check out the coverage on Boston.com – click here for Bill Brett’s photos and here for the “Big Night, Big Party” evening synopsis.  And most importantly, stay tuned for more pictures later in the week!