This was one vernissage not to be missed! Now in its third year and tallying 600 strong in attendance, The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts recently held a discovery evening showcasing many of the businesses located within a stone’s throw of the stately Sherbrooke Street landmark. The venerable institution is already a major cultural draw for the city and actually defines its own section of the city’s famous Golden Mile, including the businesses dotting the south side of Sherbrooke and down along de la Montagne and Crescent to de Maisonneuve.
Billed as ‘Le Quartier s’expose au Musée’, the evening featured a roster that read like a who’s who of brands (think Nespresso, Michel Desjardins, hotel Le Meridien Versaille, and Georges Laoun), and had guests gather in the glass-ceiling verriere to inform and entertain with delectable sweet and savoury bites from À La Saj, Potier, and Il Cortile. It also featured fashion installations by Shan and Chacok, hand massages by Dr. Hauschka, and mini manicures by Salon Le Profil.
Of particular note was the spread put out by the MMFA’s own Cafe, a great spot to hit any day after taking in one of the many exhibits. Upon entering, guests also had the option of participating in a draw for some high-priced prizes offered by many of the establishments. Sadly, yours truly walked away empty-handed.
Though a lineup like this sounds impossible to top, the soirée was rounded out with class as event partners such as Barefoot, who graciously provided both red and white wines, and Elle Quebec, who came on board as title sponsor with a copy of their latest issue for all in attendance. After perusing the table setups and socializing with the usual cast of YP party-goers, we stopped by the dress-up photo booth (Halloween-timely!) for a final photo-opp before making our way out, courtesy gift bag in hand.
