At the 2016 Catersource and Event Solutions Conference & Tradeshow in March, Debra Lykkemark of Culinary Capers Catering and Special Events was honored with the Catie Award as the Signature Caterer for Best Multiple Day Event. Debra and Culinary Capers both have a distinguished history of planning fabulous events, with an impeccable attention to detail.
The opening of a flagship Nordstrom store in Vancouver was an elegant and impressive affair, with Culinary Capers playing an integral role in both catering and event production. Culinary Capers executed seven events from September 11th-18th, including the Opening Gala, Employee Rally, and Beauty Bash street party, with event attendance totaling over 7,800.
The evening began with VIPs posing for media in front of a large boxwood backdrop. Designed by PartyArt Design, the design division of Culinary Capers, the backdrop included custom lettering of the event’s hashtag, further promoting the event and enhancing engagement on social media.
The design team also installed over 400 feet of red carpet to create paths between the events. Guests walked to each event in style, similar to models on a high-fashion runway.
An ice skating rink was transformed into a glamorous arena fit for an international fashion event, showcasing 85 looks from top designers. Guests were wowed as they entered the renovated space, featuring a custom catwalk, sub-flooring, and arena style seating.
With grand modifications taking place and a scaffolding tent structure being built over the ice rink, Culinary Capers was responsible for obtaining building, fire, traffic control and special event permits from the city and the province.
After the fashion show, guests entered the brand-new Nordstrom store for the remainder of the evening to enjoy delicious food, specialty drinks, and live entertainment at the Opening Gala. Culinary Capers prepared 35,000 hors d’oeuvre and small plates.
The festivities continued the following day with an Employee Rally for 1,000 people on the fashion show site. Employees entered the vibrant atmosphere through a Nordstrom balloon letter arch, filled with food, colorful beach balls, and hip hop music. Managers of each department were cheered on as they walked the catwalk at the event.
Following the Employee Rally, a major downtown street was closed down for the Beauty Bash street party for 2500 people. A custom tent bustling with Nordstrom beauty teams and 65 vendors gave the attendees makeovers, while they munched on breakfast treats and drinks. Culinary Capers even transformed a food truck into a tote truck for the event. Working closely with the Nordstrom marketing and visual staff, the team adhered to the brand focus throughout the events.
A high-energy, local band entertained the attendees until the store opening countdown.
With creative expertise and successful event planning, Culinary Capers transformed a Nordstrom store opening into Vancouver’s fashion event of the year. To learn more about Culinary Capers, please visit http://www.culinarycapers.com.
Get Fresh, May 2016
