When you blend creativity, culture, and a splash of style, you get an unforgettable event that does more than just amaze. We love to curate spaces that ignite conversation, inspire change, and honor the trailblazers. Marking the 10th anniversary of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) Pittsburgh Chapter, we took the concept of a cocktail-style gala and turned it up to eleven!
This wasn’t just a cocktail party. This was a celebration of minority excellence in architecture in a way that’s as bold, beautiful, and unapologetic as the people it honored — with a whole lot of style and flair. Here’s how we turned the Energy Innovation Center into a color-soaked, conversation-starting masterpiece.
Upon arrival, VIP guests were drawn into the main space by the sweet sounds from live multi-genre violinist Manny Apea. As the core of our design, the digital display didn’t just sit pretty in the background. It became part of the evening’s experience. With thought-provoking graphics, eye-popping animations, and sponsor highlights, the LED wall was as dynamic as the architecture it celebrated. Imagine a living, breathing work of art, the perfect foundation for an event designed to inspire.
If there’s one thing that makes a space feel alive, it’s lighting. The secret sauce for depth and drama. This was lighting with purpose, creating an atmosphere so immersive, you felt it as much as you saw it. Bold uplighting in every corner and pattern gobo projections cast colorful shadows that made the space feel both intimate and expansive.
The seating at this fundraising gala wasn’t your average banquet-style situation. We made sure to set the stage for easy-flowing conversations and new connections by incorporating a mix of high and low cocktail tables with six long, illuminated tables customized by Vast Made Studios. Throw in a few swanky furniture pieces provided by Workscape Inc., and networking meets vibes! It was the ultimate blend of style and connection.
Big Catering truly delivered with colorful drinks and flavorful eats that added as much flair to the experience as the décor. Guests enjoyed exploring live food stations with an inspired, diverse spread that was every bit as exciting as the event itself. From crafted cocktails to mouthwatering bites that were as delicious as they were beautiful, the menu was a feast for the senses and had guests raving. Bella Christie’s Sweet Boutique satisfied everyone’s sweet tooth with their irresistable Warm Sweets Station before the night ended.
The event wasn’t just about celebrating NOMA’s 10-year milestone; it was about celebrating the vision, passion, and excellence of minority architects and their invaluable contributions to the world of design. And there’s no better way to honor those who push boundaries than with a night that was bold, dynamic, and unapologetically colorful. Every detail was designed to celebrate creativity, connection, and community — all in full color.
Take a note from this one: color, lighting, unexpected elements, and a little bit of flair equals pure magic. What’s your favorite colorful detail of this not-so-average gala? Comment below!
Planning: Shayla Hawkins Events
Venue: Energy Innovation Center
Catering: Big Catering
Photography: Chad Isaiah
Videography: Heather Poole
Floral Design: May Chester Design
Custom Rentals: Vast Made Studios
Rentals: Event Source
Furniture: Workscape Inc.
Linens: Mosaic
Digital Wall + Lighting Design: Gray Phoenix Productions
Warm Sweets Station: Bella Christie's Sweet Boutique
Branding: Sugar Taylor
Printing: SpeedPro Pittsburgh North
DJ: Arie Cole
Violinist: Manny Apea
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