2022 Alliance for Smiles Gala

2022 ALLIANCE FOR SMILES GALA: OVERVIEW

Hunter Events co-produced the annual 2022 “Alliance for Smiles Gala” at The Hotel Nikko in San Francisco. Alliance for Smiles is a nonprofit organization founded in 2004 in San Francisco. The group provides free surgical repairs for cleft lip and cleft palate, with missions mostly in the continents of Asia and Africa. They also work to develop treatment centers where continuous follow-up care can be provided. Each year, dignitaries, donors, volunteers, family and friends from around the world attend this gala to recognize volunteers & supporters who have gone above & beyond in transforming the lives of children and communities impacted by cleft conditions. All proceeds from this Gala go to support more surgeries, and the training and equipping of medical teams worldwide.

After a two-year in person hiatus of this gathering due to Covid, this is the first time the Gala was held again — in person. Hence the two-fold name of the event “Back in Bloom” which was the very appropriate theme name of this event. After two years, guests were thrilled to see each other and gather together once again in person for this very special and generous event. Guests enjoyed free-flowing wine, incredible raffle & auction prizes, exhilarating entertainment, dancing and a photo booth.  And most important: they were able to gather again in person. You can’t put a price on that.

COCKTAIL HOUR + SILENT AUCTION

The fun filled evening began in the pre-function area outside of the Ballroom, where guests were treated to live music, a branded photo area, and a carefully and artfully arranged display of live auction items from which the guests could cast their auction bid. As guests mingled, they were offered an array of sumptuous passed appetizers and classic wines. The space was decorated in beautiful colorful flowers and flowing vines. Perfect.

DINNER + PROGRAM

After the reception, guests were then escorted in to the elegantly designed Ballroom. As light jazz played in the background, guests were treated to an elegant three course dinner prepared by world-renowned and Michelin-recommended Executive Chef Adam Mali and his expert culinary crew. During the dinner, the well planned, crafted and meticulously timed program began in tandem with the dinner. Due to the complexity and timing of the program, Hunter Events worked diligently and carefully in both the pre-production phase of this event and on site at the event. Hunter worked with the audio visual crew, talent, speakers, lighting and sound technicians — to ensure the program would run smoothly and seamlessly. That it did.

At the close of a fun and raucous auction, the program ended with a colorful cultural dance performed by a local Guatemalan dance group. After closing remarks, dancing began and continued until 11 PM.

YOUR NEXT EVENT COULD BE AT THE HOTEL NIKKO SAN FRANCISCO

As a top event planner in San Francisco, our team customizes and creates unique events in the Bay Area, throughout the United States and across the globe. Hunter Events has partnered and established long-lasting relationships with world-class hotels, venues and special event facilities — like the Hotel Nikko.

Experience Asian inspired hospitality and personal service in the heart of San Francisco. Hotel Nikko, located steps from Union Square, blends urban convenience with Eastern charm for a luxurious boutique hotel experience.

Surrounded by the bustle of Union Square and sights of San Francisco, Hotel Nikko offers contemporary accommodations, and is located minutes away from the city’s best dining, entertainment, and culture.

Let’s plan your event together! Contact Robert Hunter at Robert@HunterEvents.net.