Cathy Dobson
White dress, white lilies, white balloons and, yes, even white gloves and white fascinators.
Sarnians went all out for the first Simply White Dinner in Sarnia-Lambton and now, two years later, have a chance to do it all over again.
The Simply White Dinner is back and organizers say they anticipate a sold-out event with 250 or more.
Two of the all-white evening’s original organizers, Kelly-Lynn Musico and Wendy Ghorbril, are joined this time by Rebecca Reed and Kim McPhee to create a magical evening of outdoor dining and entertainment.
“We do it just to see people happy,” said Musico. “It brings the community together at a truly elegant event.”
Simply White Dinner is fashioned after a worldwide phenomenon that started in Paris 25 years ago and is now held annually in 40 cities across the globe.
“It’s for people who enjoy an enchanted evening,” said Musico.
The location of the dinner isn’t disclosed until moments before they arrive, although it’s no secret organizers have picked another one downtown.
Some dinners, like New York City’s, sell out to 1,000 people and have many thousands more on a waiting list. The first dinner in Sarnia sold out as well to 180 people with many more on a waiting list.
In 2014, participants dressed entirely in white and met at an undisclosed location, before being taken to eat on the patio of a waterfront highrise.
“It was really amazing,” said Musico.
“People who came wore white boas, organza hats and brought white picnic baskets and lilies.
“One older woman wore her white wedding gloves. It was just wonderful.”
The location will be entirely different this time, she added.
Tickets are $50 for two and must be purchased in pairs. Attendees are required to bring their own linen napkins, their own china, silverware and white centerpieces. No plastic or paper please.
Organizers provide tables, tablecloths and chairs. Three or four course meals are supplied by the participants or can be purchased online from Sarnia’s Gourmet Café.
Musico said in 2014 that the majority purchased their dinners but there was a lot of interest in the lobster, cold meats, salads and appetizers brought by some of the others.
Wine is available at an additional cost by ordering online.
During dinner, music is provided by the Ken Varley Jazz Trio while DJ music is played during the dance afterward under the stars.
Tickets are already more than half sold and the event might expand to seat more depending on demand.
“This is a not-for-profit event that we are doing simply because we enjoy the camaraderie and fun,” said Musico.
IF YOU GO:
WHAT: Simply White Dinner
WHERE: That’s a secret. Diners will be told the meeting place two days in advance.
WHEN: Thursday, July 7, rain or shine. 6:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
TICKETS: $50 per pair. Dinner and wine extra. Available online at www.simplywhitedinner.com until June 30.
The Arts Journal highlights events that contribute to the cultural fabric of our community. Contact Cathy Dobson with your ideas at 226-932-0985 or [email protected].
