Trying to be more socially responsible has been higher on my priority list lately.  I really do believe that it is our responsibility to be of service to others and to give back so I have been trying to find a way to do that.  I have volunteered in the past at various places but often left feeling either physically or emotionally drained.

So this winter when I went looking for a way to give back I wanted the volunteer opportunity to be something fulfilling for everyone.  I was lucky to find an organization called JVS that was looking for help organizing and planning their annual fundraising gala.

I mean, event planning for the good – that was perfect!

So, last october we went to work starting to plan this crazy 300+ person event.  The woman who I worked is a Jill of all trades at the company and among planning this event she was also working closely with the CEO and assisting the development team.  She had a plate full!

The gala wanted to have an upscale and simplistic feel.  It was last night (may) so it also wanted to feel springy.  It was so much fun helping to pick out linens, centerpieces and chair options.  The inspiration actually came from a wedding I had seen and we took it from there.  Gray/blue/silvers with pops of spring color.

Being a part of a corporate event was great fun and the organization exceeded their donations from the year before by a ton!  The number was over 260K the last time I had heard!  So, bravo JVS, it was an honor to be able to help.

Here’s a few phone shots from the night.  Flowers were done by myself and this great chica from Clark’s shoes event department!

Vintage immigrant photos complimented the flowers perfectly and helped tell the story of what JVS does.