“As Time Goes By”
2014 CSUSM Annual Fundraising Gala
A Journey to Casablanca
This event concept was a blast to plan! We knew from previous years how much our guests loved a costume theme. Invitations looked like old time airplane boarding passes and invited guests on a journey to Casablanca. Throughout the night be called on quotes and style themes from the classic movie.
Guests were greeted by valet dressed as Moroccan bell hops then ushered up an elevator. When the elevator doors opened they entered a colorful court yard with food, drink and live music. There, they participated in a silent auction and socialized. Later in the evening, they were led from the court yard to the ballroom by a parade of live jazz musicians. In the ballroom, guests enjoyed an elegant meal, a live auction funding student scholarships. The program closed with dancing and an open bar.
Project Details
- Built sponsor solicitations (print and email)
- Designed invitations (print and email)
- Developed a website (event info and ticket/sponsorship sale)
- Laid out promo ads for San Diego Magazine (print and digital)
- Managed AV team and program queues
- Created screen graphics and table design (place settings/presentation)
- Produced event programs and signage
“Masquerade in Monte Carlo”
2016 CSUSM Annual Fundraising Gala
During my time at CSUSM, I conceptualized theme ideas with the Philanthropy and Events teams and then created all the graphics in support of their annual galas. In 2016, the committee selected the theme, “Masquerade in Monte Carlo.” The whimsical, black tie and masked atmosphere, allowed guests to played casino games in the warm summer air and sip on signature cocktails while raising funds for student scholarships.
The evening included a gourmet meal, silent auction, a video presentation about scholarship recipients and a “raise the paddle” live auction. After the program, guests enjoyed live music and entertainment while they danced under the stars! With each year I was on the team proceeds of the event multiplied and guests became more engaged in the building of the university.
Project Details
- Built sponsor solicitations (print and email)
- Designed invitations (print and email)
- Developed a website (event info and ticket/sponsorship sale)
- Laid out promo ads for San Diego Magazine (print and digital)
- Managed AV team and program queues
- Created screen graphics and table design (place settings/presentation)
- Produced event programs and signage