Dine and Drink Around the World: When caterers throw their own party

photo by Michael Temchine

Each  year, the Baltimore Chapter of NACE (National Association for Catering and Events) throws their annual fundraiser – a party with a purpose*.  The bonus is Baltimore’s top caterers, party planners put on an evening of eye catching décor, exceptional culinary treats, and beverages for everyone’s taste, in fact it is a contest and they are all in it to win it. They are showing off what they do for their clients, how to throw the perfect party.   Guess what, you are invited, it is Wednesday, March 13th 5pm to 10pm at the Radisson Inner Harbor  – tickets for this outstanding event are a mere $99 per person (all inclusive)

Over 300 guests  are anticipated for this international-themed fundraiser, which invites the public to “experience how the event industry throws a party.”  The cocktail celebration kicks off with hors d’oeuvres and tasting stations from Fogo de Ciao and the Radisson Inner Harbor, beverages from Founders Brewing Co. and Tito’s Vodka, and live entertainment.

Next, guests will “travel” to a number of countries. Each destination will have a customized vignette featuring signature delicacies, specialty cocktails and décor. Voting will take place for the Best International Experience Award among the following teams:

• SPAIN

Caterer: Eleven Courses
Designer: Innovative Party Planners

Beverage Pairing: Lyon Distilling Company

• ITALY

Caterer: La Tavola

Designer: Nick Codd

Beverage Pairing: Baltimore Spirits Company

• AUSTRIA

Caterer: Chef’s Expressions
Designer: Eric Henning Magic

Beverage Pairing: Lanterna Wines

• THAILAND

Caterer: The Pantry Catering

Designer: To Be Announced
Beverage Pairing: Aaron Joseph of R Bar

• MEXICO

Caterer: Camden Yards

Designer: Tira Lynn Events

Beverage Pairing: Espolon Tequila

Adding to the fun will be gaming tables, a photo and video booth by Maryland Mojo, silent auctions including a trip to Florida, raffle and additional beverages from Breakthru, Full Tilt Brewing Co., J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, Fiji Water and Tito’s Vodka. The evening will conclude with an After Party featuring desserts, a coffee bar from Zeke’s Coffee and additional entertainment by Sly 45.

Tickets to Dine and Drink Around the World are $99 per person. For more information – including a full list of sponsors – or to purchase tickets, visit www.baltimorenacefundraiser.com. For additional details on social media, visit #nacedineanddrink on Twitter or www.facebook.com/Baltimore-NACE-Fundraiser.

 *A “party with a purpose,” Dine and Drink Around the World is intended to raise over $30,000 to support the following nonprofits: St. Francis Neighborhood Center, The National Association for Caterering and Events, and The Foundation of NACE.