In anticipation of the much-awaited new “Great Gatsby” movie, the San Francisco Bay Area Wedding Planners group took things in their own hands and celebrated the “Roaring Twenties” at The Box SF, a historic event space with a lot of character – it’s the former printing plant of William Randolph Hearst’s newspaper empire! With lots of period detail and a touch of gritty charm it proved to be the perfect venue for the occasion.

More than a dozen group members and some newcomers had generously contributed to the party, making it into a truly memorable event, starting with a custom-designed logo, signage and fliers by Rachel Lopez Metzger of  The Desk Set.

Our models from Stars Model Agency – Gabrielle, Kris, Jillian, Katrina and Victoria – received glamorous hair-do’s and makeup by the Bella Bridal team (Jocelyn and Brenda)

in an elegant get-ready room at the Westin St. Francis hotel, courtesy of Wedding Specialist Lauren Schardt, while our photographers – husband-and-wife team rc & tess and Martin Meyer of martinFILMS captured every moment.

Guests found the space transformed with dramatic decor: elegant lounge furniture from Abbey’s Party Rentals, courtesy of Mike Seramin; glittering and sparkling linens from Sharon Dexmier’s company, Napa Valley Linens; and over-the-top glamorous centerpieces – white calla lilies, ostrich feathers, crystals and pearls – imagine! – from Jaime and Fred of SullivanBotello Events.

Tonic Beverage Catering hosted an open bar including champagne, putting guests in a festive mood, and Robbie Schlosser and his Magnolia Jazz Band enveloped the whole gathering in beautiful sound.

Revelers enjoyed tasty finger food alongside their champagne: a variety of classic tea sandwiches from Maureen Kelly at Knight’s Catering and authentic Indian specialties from Ranjan Dey’s New Delhi Restaurant.

Dessert? Of course! A stunning cake decorated with the custom logo of the evening, another little masterpiece by Alison Okabayashi from Pretty Please.

And then guests discovered what was originally meant as favors “on the way out:” cake pops by Lauren Martin of Sweet Lauren Cakes, artfully  decorated with Art Deco patterns in the colors of the party – black, gold, and ivory; little gems that proved simply irresistible! They were so good that practically none were left at the end of the evening…

The undisputed highlight of the party was a carefully guarded surprise: acclaimed entertainer, choreographer and dance instructor Cynthia Glinka led guests in Charleston dance steps, accompanied by Magnolia Jazz Band – and with her sheer energy and contagious enthusiasm got the crowd moving to the beat! Everyone loved it, and everyone left with a big smile…

Till next time!