Hey everybody! So, we had a marvelous time in Palm Springs coordinating one of our client's annual conferences. This year we returned to Palm Springs and we had such a wonderful welcome. Thank you to our team members at the Palm Springs Convention Center, Renaissance, Hilton and the Living Desert. The photos below showcase the Monday Night Reception which is the conference's annual welcome special event. This year it took place at The Living Desert (Zoo dedicated to animals of the desert habitat). It was an amazing place and we specifically took over Village Watutu. Guests were bussed out, jumped on trolleys and driven through the park until they arrived at Watutu.
Given that it rains 4 days a year in Palm Springs, which days do you think we were there AND doing an outdoor event! Yup, you guessed it! US. So, we all had our fingers crossed and were watching the weather reports at 15 minute increments. Unplug electrical items, plug them back in, wipe the tables down, replace linen and do it all over again all day long during load in... But, the Rain Gods above decided to be nice to us and stopped the rain a whopping 30 minutes before the first bus unloaded.
We also were very excited because we wanted to be as Green as possible, we struggled with what to do with centerpieces. So, we decided to just buy something that would ultimately help The Living Desert. We asked them if we were to buy cactus, succulents and dessert plants would they use them in their park's foliage. They were very happy post event to receive over 50 potted plants. Especially since all of our attendees were from out of town. Then, since it rained so much we are able to use the candles again for another event... Nothing from this event in terms of decor ended up in the trash and on its way to the landfill!
The majority of our attendees were men, so we had to think of what they would like to do - we had to main themes in our candy station - sour candy and chocolate! They gobbled it up. It was a huge hit!
The most spectacular part of the evening was we were able to have the board members of the group have a special interaction with the painting camel - Clyde. And, we were lucky enough to participate too. Edible paint, food and hold the board sturdy because he gets into it! The board donated the painting and in doing so, we were able to allow a local school come to the park and do it for free.
Kissy, kissy!
Being in Village Watutu - we had to have authentic African dancers and drummers. It was a bit cold, so "jacket" was in place... But, it was thrilling and gave the event a different dynamic.
Joella with good friend and attendee John Leedom from Air New Zealand. "See you next year!"
To close the event, guests departed after diving into warm chocolate chip cookies and shots of milk!
Special thanks to all of our team members who made this amazing event come together! We couldn't have done it with out you. It really did take a village! Until the next time...
L.A. County Supervisor Don Knabe served as our Master of Ceremonies.
The lights went down and the stage was lite up so the audience was pulled into the presentation...
Our silent auction was a huge hit! Thank you to all of the silent auction contributors... & Michelle's great item presentation. Then, Jennifer & Joella got to take a quick moment and pose for Molly's amazing camera! 
Kissy, kissy! 
Being in Village Watutu - we had to have authentic African dancers and drummers. It was a bit cold, so "jacket" was in place... But, it was thrilling and gave the event a different dynamic. 
Special thanks to all of our team members who made this amazing event come together! We couldn't have done it with out you. It really did take a village! Until the next time... 
