Last night, the Greater Charlotte Hospitality and Tourism Alliance held it's 14th annual dinner at the Charlotte Convention Center. Over 600 hospitality professionals turned out for this black tie affair and enjoyed an evening filled with tribute, appreciation and excitement. During his welcoming speech, HTA President, Mohammad Jenatian marveled at how much the annual event had grown from it's first dinner of about 50 guests.
After taking our seats, we were served a beautifully presesnted three course meal featuring a dual entree and white chocolate creme brulee for dessert. The staff was extremely attentive and made sure the wine flowed freely throughout dinner. In between the live band and intense auction, Allison and I managed to take home a few prizes ourselves. Allison was surprised with a gift certificate to The Palm restaurant and I took home a bottle of wine from North Carolina's own Childress Vineyards.
Growing from 50 guests to the crowd that turned out this year did not stop the HTA or Charlotte Convention Center from flawlessly executing this splendid occasion. After a long and busy day at the office, the ladies of Embassy Suites & Culinaire International got dolled up and were on site to take in all of the action!
Avery, Erin and Allison posed with their prettiest smiles on their way out to the big event. And on the way to the Convention Center, Allison and I paused for a quick photo op.
Avery, Erin and Allison posed with their prettiest smiles on their way out to the big event. And on the way to the Convention Center, Allison and I paused for a quick photo op.
The girls and I arrived just after 6 o'clock and enjoyed the cocktail hour and took a few pictures while we waited for the crowd to arrive. As you can see, we were all smiles. Once inside the room, we stopped and took a moment to admire the space and perfectly set ballroom for us and our 600 hospitality cohorts.
After taking our seats, we were served a beautifully presesnted three course meal featuring a dual entree and white chocolate creme brulee for dessert. The staff was extremely attentive and made sure the wine flowed freely throughout dinner. In between the live band and intense auction, Allison and I managed to take home a few prizes ourselves. Allison was surprised with a gift certificate to The Palm restaurant and I took home a bottle of wine from North Carolina's own Childress Vineyards.
The HTA's 14th Annual Dinner was truly and experience and night to remember. We took great pride in being present at an event that honored and thanked the professionals who protect, promote and serve the hospitality industry.
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