We’re thrilled to share some exciting news straight from our kitchen at Vibrant Occasions Catering! Recently, we were honored with a 2024 ACE Award for Catered Micro Event of the Year. This prestigious recognition celebrates excellence in the catering and events industry, and we couldn’t be more proud of our team for this achievement.
The ACE Awards shine a spotlight on outstanding contributions to our industry, and winning this award is a true testament to our dedication to delivering top-notch catering experiences. This particular award celebrates the best catered events with 100 or fewer guests, and we’re humbled to have clinched this title for our collaboration with the remarkable philanthropist, Cat Sims, for the memorable Dinner on the River.
Dinner on the River was an extraordinary event that epitomized the spirit of community and philanthropy. Held in the heart of Little Rock, Arkansas, this private dinner party, co-hosted by Vibrant Occasions Catering and philanthropist Cat Sims, was a blend of elegance, exquisite cuisine, and noble purpose. Guests were treated to a memorable dining experience set against the scenic backdrop of the river, all while supporting the launch of Sims’ fundraising campaign for the Arkansas chapter of the Children’s Tumor Foundation as a dancer in the Dancing With Our Stars Little Rock fundraising gala. It was a night where every bite served a cause, every conversation sparked inspiration, and every moment left an indelible mark on the hearts of those in attendance.
Now, you might be wondering, what exactly is the ACE Award? Well, let me explain. The ACE Awards are presented annually during an event called Catersource + The Special Event. Catersource is the world’s premier educational resource and expansive network for the catering and events industry. It’s a hub where professionals gather to learn, connect, and celebrate the best of the best in our field. The Special Event is an integral part of this gathering, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and trendsetters for a truly spectacular experience.
Winning the ACE Award is a huge honor for us, but it’s also a testament to the incredible work we do day in and day out. Our team pours their hearts and souls into every event we cater, and receiving this recognition is a validation of our commitment to excellence.
Chef Serge Krikorian says, “As the managing partner and chef of Vibrant Occasions Catering, I can’t express how proud I am of our team’s hard work and dedication. Together, we strive to create unforgettable experiences for our clients, and winning the 2024 ACE Award is a testament to our commitment to delivering the very best.”
This award isn’t just a shiny trophy on our shelf—it’s a symbol of our passion for our craft and our dedication to our clients and community. We’re immensely grateful for this honor, and we look forward to continuing to serve our community with pride and excellence.
Tips for Planning a Private Dinner Party in Your Home
Hosting a private dinner party in your home can be an intimate and memorable experience for you and your guests. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply gathering with loved ones, here are some tips to help you plan a successful and stress-free event:
Define Your Vision: Before you start planning, take some time to envision the type of atmosphere you want to create. Consider the theme, decor, and overall vibe you want for your dinner party.
Create a Guest List: Decide on the number of guests you’d like to invite and make a list of their names. Consider the size of your space and how many people it can comfortably accommodate.
Send Invitations: Once you have your guest list finalized, send out invitations well in advance. You can choose to send traditional paper invitations or opt for digital invites via email or social media.
Plan the Menu: Select a menu that suits the occasion and the preferences of your guests. Whether you’re cooking the meal yourself or hiring a caterer, make sure to consider any dietary restrictions or allergies.
Set the Table: Take the time to set a beautiful table that complements the theme of your dinner party. Pay attention to details like table linens, centerpieces, and place settings.
Consider the Flow of the Evening: Think about how you want the evening to unfold and plan accordingly. Will there be cocktails and appetizers upon arrival? Will dinner be served buffet-style or plated? Consider the timeline and logistics of the evening to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Prepare Your Space: Clean and declutter your home before the event, and make sure there’s plenty of seating for your guests. Consider creating designated areas for mingling, dining, and any other activities you have planned.
Offer Entertainment: Depending on the vibe of your dinner party, you may want to offer some form of entertainment for your guests. This could be background music, a live performance, or interactive activities.
Don’t Forget the Details: Remember to consider all the little details that can make a big difference, such as lighting, temperature control, and bathroom amenities for your guests.
Enjoy Yourself: Most importantly, remember to relax and enjoy the company of your guests. Hosting a dinner party should be a joyous occasion, so take the time to savor the moment and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
By following these tips, you can host a private dinner party in your home that’s sure to be a hit with your guests. Cheers to creating unforgettable experiences and celebrating the spirit of community in the comfort of your own space!
Thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey. Here’s to many more memorable moments and delicious meals ahead!
Read more about the ACE awards and peep all the winners here.
We would like to thank the entire team for their contributions to Dinner on the River.
Co-host & Star: Cat Sims, @catsimsxoxo
Co-host & Private Event Catering: Vibrant Occasions, @vibrantoccasionscatering
Floral Design: Rose of Sharon Floral Design Studio, @roseofsharonfloral
Photography: Lori Sparkman Photography, @lorisparkmanphotography
Music: Central Arkansas Entertainment Agency, @cae_lr
DJ: DJ Jellybean, @djjbean
Planner & Party Designer: Meredith Events, @meredithevents
Public Relations: Meredith Corning PR, @meredithcorningpr
Videography: KB Studios, @kbstudiosar
Balloon Photo Backdrop: Just Peachy, @justpeachylr
Dinnerware Rentals: Eventology, @eventology_us
Wardrobe Stylist: Kimberly Cyr Calhoun, @kimberlycyr
Wardrobe Retailer: Royal We, @royalweprom
Special Guests & Content Creators: @tabithanstaylor, @alexa_hart_, @kailux, @kimberlycyr, @lesley_withrow, @jennymartinphoto, @alishacurtis, @sarahkmeyer
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