The rain didn’t keep the who’s who of the Toronto event scene from coming out in full force at Andrew Richard Designs’ annual summer party on Thursday, June 21st. It was an event not to miss, after all, and Toronto young professionals have grown familiar with the luxury outdoor furniture store as an event space, with ARD a chosen venue for some of the city’s most coveted fundraising galas, star-studded film events and product launches alike…not to mention our inaugural Notable Awards. The party, which has trended on Twitter the last two years in Toronto, drew regulars on Toronto’s social circuit as well as young professionals in the media, PR and event worlds. The party marks a chance for Andrew to thank his partners, network and showcase the store’s unmatched event capabilities.
This year’s event invited partygoers to revisit their youth, with the theme “Remember Summers Like this?” #StayFoolish that transported guests back to summers past, in everything from the entertainment, food and décor. The Atrium and Loft spaces were transformed into a retro-chic summer escape, complete with street breakdancers, carnival games, overhead kites and “adult” lemonade and root beer floats. Of course, ample luxurious outdoor furniture lounges offered a chance for guests to chat as they mingled to the beats of DJs from Bellosound.
With no shortage of stimuli, it seemed there was something to see (and a familiar face) everywhere one looked, including a violinist, percussionist and live art installation. Much like a carnival, guests did not leave this party hungry, with E11 as the main food sponsor and an assortment of other vendors (like favourites The Food Dudes and Daniel and Daniel) offering everything from mini pulled pork sandwiches, perogies with all the toppings, whoopie pies and hot dogs to go. Of course, a return to the lazy, hazy days of summer vacation wouldn’t be complete without favourite childhood treats like candy, cotton candy and popcorn.
