Imagine stepping into a time machine that whisked you away to the glamorous era of the 1920s, where the air was filled with the sweet melodies of live jazz music and the spirit of celebration was palpable. This was the scene that greeted guests at the Specially Gifted Gatsby Gala on November 9, 2024, held at Glover Park Brewery in Marietta, Georgia.
Speakeasy Charm, Gatsby Glamour, Special Entertainment and Prizes
As guests arrived, they were transported to a world of speakeasy charm at the Specially Gifted Pizzeria speakeasy entrance, where Italian music danced through the venue and our very own Parker, dressed as a pizza chef, welcomed them with a warm smile.
From the pizzeria themed decor to the delicious pizza provided by Marietta Pizza Co., the speakeasy vibe was authentic.
The anticipation grew as flapper girls unveiled the grand entrance to the Gatsby-themed gala, where a martini girl danced in a giant martini glass, setting the tone for a night of 1920s elegance and enchantment.
The evening unfolded with the soulful sounds of a full live jazz band, setting the perfect backdrop for guests to mingle, dance, and revel in the magic of the roaring twenties. A photo booth captured precious memories, while casino tables provided endless entertainment and excitement.
Although there was no real money to be won at the casino tables, guests had plenty of chances to win throughout the night. We had the greatest pleasure of receiving several raffle donations from sponsors such as Haywood Harvest, Spray Studio, Southern Roots, Basecamp, Atlanta Botanical Gardens, and much more. These donations made for fabulous raffle prizes. Of course, there was also the 50/50 raffle.
In addition to the raffle options, guests had an opportunity to bid on countless collector’s items from the silent auction. From sports memorabilia to unique paintings and drawings, everyone had their eyes on something from this space.
SGF had several special guests in attendance, with one of those being team members from Kendra Scott East Cobb. Kendra Scott’s exquisite jewelry collection dazzled guests, with 20% of sales benefiting SGF.
Whether guests wanted to elevate their accessories for the night or do some Christmas shopping for loved ones, their purchase was a little more justified that night.
With all of the celebrating, entertainment, and networking, we went all out to treat our guests with delectable hors d’oeuvres and specially crafted cocktails. The catering menu and staff did not disappoint.
As for drinks, guests enjoyed the luxury of having several premium options. With Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Southern Roots, Legends Distillery, Reformation Brewery, and Hyde Brewing as beverage sponsors, everyone was in great spirits.
Southern Roots took it a step further with their premium bloody mary mix by joining forces with the catering staff to create unique bloody mary shots for sampling.
Specially Gifted Honors Community Member
Amidst the festivities, we took a moment to honor Mai Lee, the dedicated owner of Advance for Kids, for her three decades of unwavering service to families caring for children with disabilities. Advance for Kids is a private, therapist-owned, outpatient rehabilitation clinic with two locations in Northwest Georgia that has existed since 2003.
Mai Lee’s tireless commitment to the community was celebrated with a special award and heartfelt speech, inspiring us all to come together and bridge the gap between individuals with and without disabilities.
Many of our Gifted Families are patients at Mai Lee’s therapy clinics in Calhoun and Rome. Our team has had the pleasure of seeing firsthand the impact Advance for Kids has on the lives of these children and their families. One of those families was also in attendance the night of the gala.
Making the evening even more special, Brandon and Carrie Webb generously provided gourmet cookies from their CHIP Cookies location in Kennesaw they opened up earlier this year. Brandon and Carrie are the parents of SGF kiddo Paislee and one of the first families gifted by SGF in 2020.
At SGF, we love to celebrate each victory in our Gifted Families lives. Sometimes that’s a child making it through a therapy session even though their body is tired and in pain, and sometimes it’s watching their parents become small business owners.
Thank You for a Successful Specially Gifted Gatsby Gala
We could not have dreamed of a better way to celebrate our fifth year as an organization. Our next gala will not be until 2029 and although it seems far away, it will be here before we know it. Together, we will without a doubt accomplish so many great things in these next years.
To all who attended, sponsored, volunteered, and supported this event, we extend our deepest gratitude for making a meaningful impact on families caring for children with disabilities.
Your generosity enables us to continue our mission and provide vital resources to those in need, empowering us to create a more inclusive and supportive community for all.
The success of the Specially Gifted Gatsby Gala is a testament to the power of coming together for a common cause, and we are truly grateful for each and every one of you who made the evening a success.
As we bid farewell to the enchanting era of the 1920s and return to the present day, may we carry the spirit of unity, celebration, and support with us. Let us continue to advocate for those with disabilities, to break down barriers, and to spread love and acceptance wherever we go.
Thank you once again to everyone who made this event a night to remember. We look forward to seeing you at future events and continuing to make a difference in the lives of those in our community.
To Our Sponsors, Thank You!
Venue Sponsor
The Lanham Family
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Bronze Sponsors
Beverage Sponsors
Catering Sponsor
Raffle Sponsors
Haywood Harvest
Spray Studio
Southern Roots
Cheeky Chic Spray Tans
Atlanta Botanical Gardens
Plastic Surgery Center of the South
Tulip Nails
Mac’s Chophouse
Spring Marietta
Marietta Local
Basecamp
Hamp and Harry’s
Legend’s Distillery
Hyde Brewing
Glover Park Brewery
Two Bird’s Taphouse
Vendors and Service Providers
Glover Park Brewery – Venue
Kendra Scott East Cobb – Jewelry
The Off Centered Project – Entertainment: Martini Girl and Flapper Girls
Atlanta Event Music – Jazz Band
ShakeUpATL – Bar Services
