The Ritz Carlton O’ahu, Turtle Bay Hosts 5th Annual Dîner En Blanc In Honolulu
They say one man’s trash is another man’s treasure, so maybe it’s not that hard to believe that the centerpiece of the most elegant party of the year was trash. We’ll get back to that later. First, let's talk about the night to remember.
September 1, More than 2,000 ladies and gents dressed in white, celebrated a special evening on The Ritz Carlton O’ahu, Turtle Bay's Stables Lawn at the 5th annual Dîner en Blanc in Honolulu.
History of Le Dîner en Blanc
Le Dîner en Blanc tradition has actually been around for 30 years and originated in Paris, France. It started when a group of friends decided to meet in the park for a picnic. They all wore white so it would be easy to find each other. Now three decades later, the tradition lives on in more than 80 cities around the world where people meet up for an elegant picnic in a beautiful location.
“This year was the 5th anniversary of Le Dîner en Blanc Honolulu and we couldn't ask for a more iconic location than the North Shore of Oahu in a beautiful setting at The Ritz Carlton O’ahu, Turtle Bay,” said event organize Maile Moran.
Partnership with Sustainable Coastlines
Back to the trash centerpiece of the event - which truly was a work of art. Diner en Blanc partnered with Sustainable Coastline and multi-media artist Aurora Robson to create the event’s centerpiece, a unique sculpture made of plastic ocean debris.
“It was a statement piece to remind our guests that we must do our part to preserve the incredible beauty of our islands. Our vendors were very thoughtful in their packaging and we were also able to utilize waste management by Sustainable Coastlines. This is an elegant pop-up picnic, so our guests bring their own silver, plates, and glassware, and we aim to leave the space better than we found it,” explained Moran.
Elegant Picnic Menu
Chef Kevin Nakata from Hawaii Convention Center created his interpretation of a picnic with a lot of fun goodies including Beet Hummus, Ahi Confit Nicoise Salad, Kalua Pork Rilettes, and Smoked Salmon Sandwiches. There was also a fabulous Tsar Nicoulai Caviar and Taittinger Champagne package for those looking to indulge.
The entertainment was spectacular with island reggae artist Elijah Sky opening the dinner, then an amazing set by Kings of Spade who kicked off the dancing followed by our veteran DJS, CW and Delve.
Event Highlights
Besides everyone decked in white and enjoying amazing food and entertainment, there are also two traditions of Diner en Blanc that guests participate in.
“The two highlights of this event are the napkin wave to start dinner and the sparklers to open the dancing,” said Moran.
Guests also loved white bouncy houses from Jump For Love Hawaii and firepit lounges provided by Turtle Bay as well as a decadent photo backdrop by J'Adore Floral Designs and lighted signs by Designed with Aloha.
“Hawaii is a place known for embracing the outdoors and our natural surroundings. We don’t have the ancient architecture of other cities so we celebrate the raw beauty of the island. The spirit of Le Dîner en Blanc—enjoying a sophisticated picnic with family and friends in the outdoors—is something that people here love and have fully embraced,” said Moran. “We can’t wait for Le Dîner en Blanc - Honolulu 2019!”
You have to be a member of the Diner en Blanc to know about the events and attend. Members can sponsor their friends. Learn more about how to become a member here: https://honolulu.dinerenblanc.com