#LoveLentils Behind the Mask Mardi Gras

Hart & Galla Events executed an exclusive event for Saskatchewan Pulse Growers (Canadian Lentils) at the BlissDom Canada Conference in October at Blue Mountain Resort. As returning sponsors, our task was to blow the guests away with an out of the box idea. The chosen theme was a New Orleans style Mardi Gras.

The moment the guests entered the pre-function area, they were immersed in a unique Mardi Gras experience, captured through various medias and interactivities. A snapshot of a street in the French quarter, the corridor was draped with large filtered & stylized banner images of various key New Orleans hot spots. Faux street lamps, masqueraded servers and a parade of carnival style performers gave guests a taste of what was to come once they entered the main ballroom.

The entrance to the ballroom doorway was draped in a dark, velvety, club style drape which led to a mysterious anti-chamber. This short corridor was darkened and black-lit with hanging LED glow lights and more draped image banners of New Orleans, allowing for a tone of excitement and intrigue as guests entered. Reaching the end of the anti-chamber, guests pushed through a set of curtains to enter the “Voodoo Lounge”. This area included eclectic seating, a beverage bar, and rich fabrics. The space was accented with neon images of animals and masks superimposed on the black-lit, velvet draped walls. Around the chamber were a number of small, round tables at which Tarot Readers were available to entertain guests with fortune telling. Guests also had the option of taking part in the “Design Your Own Fortune” experience.

The Voodoo Lounge opened up to the main ballroom. The room was transformed into the French Quarter, complete with white draping, faux street lamps and subtle nods to gold and jewel tones flanking the corners of the room. A floor to ceiling lighting centerpiece was the key focus in the center of the room. Servers, dressed for a masquerade, presented signature cocktails and lentil-based tasting dishes. Living statues and carnival style entertainers peppered the venue while activity was constantly running on stage with performers, a band and various elements of entertainment. In one corner stood a 6×6 ft snapshot of a street in the French Quarter which allowed guests to pose for a photo while sharing their experience on social media.

Interactive stations throughout the room kept the energy high and provided guests a fun and unique experience throughout the evening.