SEARCH Event Shows Industry Love

Attendees who gathered in Austin, TX for Catersource + The Special Event this past February had the chance to attend the SEARCH Foundation's Annual Signature Event (held on Valentine's Day).

The SEARCH Foundation, a 501(c)3 that assists event, meeting and catering professionals in crisis, is pleased to announce the milestone of over $100,000 raised at their Annual Signature Event for the second consecutive year.

David Merrell (AOO Events) made an impromptu speech during the Annual Signature Event when he expresssed his appreciation for all that SEARCH does, referencing his experience being a recipient this past year following a fire at his warehouse. 

The following evening SEARCH chairwoman Kate Patay, along with the SEARCH Board, were honored with the Steve Kemble Leadership Award presented by the Steve Kemble Leadership Foundation to the individual or group who has demonstrated excellence in leadership skills through service and contributions to the special event and meeting industry.

SEARCH Foundation Chairwoman Kate Patay speaks to event attendees during the evening's fundraising efforts. 

According to vice chair, David Lombardo “Our leaders, both past and present, demonstrate an incredible level of commitment and we’re proud to serve alongside Kate and follow in the footsteps of so many industry icons.”  

Here's a look back at this year's Annual Signature Event (held at Skybox on 6th). 

Embracing the current design trend "aquatecture", the ceviche station made a statement through the use of fish as decor. The cevche station allowed guests to pick their protein (red rish, white fish, and shrimp), their mix-ins (corn, cucumber, mango, avocado, peppers, tomato, and red onion), and their accoutrements (tostadas and platain chips). 

The Brazilian steakhouse station featured bacon-wrapped chicken, New York strip, and baby back pork ribs accompanied by myriad sides including garlic mashed potatoes, butter toasted farofa, and a winter citrus salad. 

Following the Annual Signature Event, the SEARCH Foundation's biggest supporters were invited to an after party (with additional bites) hosted by Wilkinson-Rhodes.

A crepe station provided a little something sweete for event attendees. 

See more from this year's Catersource + Special Event in the summer issue of Catersource magazine!

All photos courtesy Ivan Piedra Photography/AGNYC Productions/SpotMyPhotos