SWAG anyone? While some seasoned vets left the ISES lunch Wednesday afternoon minus their bags of “stuff we all get” figuring it was just more stuff they already have to throw out, I ran into some fortunate meeting goers on my way out of the event spending the gift certificate they found in their bags to the upscale clothing store MaxMara. Nothing better then an afternoon out of the office to mingle with ISES colleagues and do a little shopping!

The luncheon, hosted by M Café (MaxMara) and Famoso Restaurant, was a great escape in the middle of an unseasonably warm, beautiful October day. Networking and cocktail took place in the M Café space on the ground level where bruchetta and pomegranate and champagne beverages flowed. Promoting fashion, the theme of the “Devil Wears ISES” event, we had two types of models walking the space; those from MaxMara and those from ISES sporting dresses made of Select Event Rentals newest linens.

Following the meet and greet, guests moved upstairs to the restaurant space decorated with floral designs from Plants, Etc. and custom menu cards from The Write Image, for a little education on the “fashion” of events and how to incorporate fashion into fundraisers. Maryanne Grisz shared her background and experience in the industry.

Following the presentation and fashion show of linen dresses, guests were treated to a three course lunch of award winning pheasant risotto, steak and mushroom salad and mini pastries.

A special thank goes out to Chris Laich for providing background music during cocktails and Steve Canning Photography for capturing the exciting event. Stay turned to the web site for pictures and highlights!

Click here to see the action in the photo gallery.