Mon. January 9, 2012
By Terrence Chappell
From cocktailing with chocolate chasers, hehe, at AIDS Foundation of Chicago's (AFC) World of Chocolate annual fundraiser to bringing in the New Year at The Drake, the season has even got my momma shouting, "Oh, you fancy, huh?" No Mom, not fancy, just lucky!
AFC's annual World of Chocolate fundraiser invited guests to an evening of fine chocolates, exclusive raffles, and above all supporting AFC's mission of improving the lives of those affected by the AIDS/HIV epidemic. The International Ballroom of the Hilton Chicago hosted top names such as RL Restaurant, Terry's Toffee, Talbott Teas, and other major brands for guests to sample each restaurant station's fine take on chocolate. This was actually my first time at the chocolate affair and certainly will not be my last and is now definitely one of my fave LGBT benefits. World of Chocolate had a certain low-key elegance that didn't try to hard to impress but still left me with quite the impression. Also, our newly minted mayor Rahm Emanuel made a special appearance as well.
I was honored and excited to be invited to bring in the New Year at The Drake's Annual Black Tie Dinner Party inside the Palm Court. The classic five-star treated guests to live entertainment and a three-course dinner complete with a bottle of my favorite champagne - Veuve Clicquot. For all you Gossip Girl fans, this would definitely be a party that Blair Waldorf would be spotted at. Although Queen Bee didn't attend, the crowd was just as chic with an elegant, seasoned spin. To the backdrop of a 1920s ambience and some good friends, I was happy to bring in the new year with ease, sophistication, and let's be honest, a few bottles of Veuve Clicquot. Palm Court and Club International special events manager Shaun Rajah was happy to host Chicago's elite at one of the city's most historic hotels.
"If you want to ring in a new year in style, you have to do it right. The Drake is known for throwing spectacular balls and this one was no exception – a real Chicago experience," said Rajah.
Cheers to the New Year and let's all have a toast for continuing fancy in 2012!
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