Back in March, I was contacted by The Heart of Florida United Way. They were requesting my photography services for the 21st Annual Chef's Gala at Walt Disney World's EPCOT. They were asking for ME!!! My services!!! After taking some time to think about it (I was a nervous wreck)...and taking some more time to recruit one of my best friends (who also happens to be a photographer) I said yes.
On May 4th, after weeks of planning, conference calling, looking at schematics of the venue, Xibel (of http://www.bellaanaphotography.com) and I met each other in the EPCOT parking lot. From there we started our whirlwind of a night.
The venue was beautiful. If you've ever been to EPCOT, there are some large doors next to Canada. Of course, from inside the park, they are decorated like Canada, so you don't really notice them. Those doors opened up to a red carpet entrance. The red carpet led to the venue. Inside housed all of the chef's stations, a stage, dance floor, tables, and beautiful displays.
The opening ceremony.
Simon Hemus, President/COO of Tupperware Brands Corporation
Dr. Antonia Novella, Executive Director, Public Health Policy, Florida Hospital
George Kalogridis, President of Walt Disney World Resort
The entertainment was fantastic! The singer and her band did a great job of entertaining everyone.
One of the delicious desserts presented. There were so many!!
Lots of wine was consumed...and it was tasty!!
One of the many delicious entrees that were cooked at each of the chef's stations.
Interviews at the red carpet entrance.
Guests on the red carpet.
Greg Warmoth, of WFTV News, emceed the event.
The dance floor was packed the entire night!!
A view of one of the silent auction tables. There were hundreds of items for the guests to bid on.
A toast to the chef's at the end of the night. They were wonderful and we all got a taste (pun intended) of their wonderful work!!
The night was truly a wonderful evening. Xibel and I were on the go for the majority of the night. We did take a few minutes to sit and sample some of the delicious fare that was offered. One of the best parts about this event, for me at least, was the fact that I learned so much. I learned many new photography tricks, organizational skills, logistical tips, and that octopus doesn't taste that bad.
On a serious note, this event raised $296,000. The Heart of Florida United Way will use this money to provide health and human services to our community. I was truly honored to be a part of that. Me!!
Please take a look at their website and maybe consider donating a few dollars!!
The 2013 Chef's Gala Page
