When things run so smoothly all the time, it might seem as though there are singing birds that help organize everything like Cinderella had in her Fairytale story. But for the Make-A-Wish South Florida team, these singing birds are actually their dedicated sponsors. What people probably do not realize is how much time, planning, work and money go into the execution of the Make-A-Wish South Florida Ball.
The InterContinental Miami’s Make-A-Wish Ball is known to be the “can’t miss” event of the South Florida social scene. In its 23-year history, the Ball has raised more than $21 million, which has been enough to grant the wishes of more than 4,300 children with life-threatening medical conditions.
Over the years, celebrity guests and musical entertainers have attended including John Legend, Marc Anthony, Diana Ross, Paula Abdul, Sharon Stone, Pamela Anderson, Wayne Newton, Adam Lambert, Joan Jett, Wyclef Jean, Melanie Amaro, Macy Gray, Natalie Cole, Christian Slater, Richie Rich, Russell and Kimora Lee Simmons, Don King, Scottie Pippen, Mike Piazza, Brett Ratner, Marcus Schenkenberg, Kim Kardashian West and Venus and Serena Williams.
As we took a look back on the 23rd Annual InterContinental Miami Make-A-Wish Ball, we were able to have some secrets revealed from the sponsors on information they’ve kept hidden in the past.
When guests arrive at the Ball, they are embraced by the outstanding decorations and performers that help bring the event to life. Thanks to the InterContinental Miami Hotel management team, the Ball’s vision is able to become a reality.The team has put in over 9,200 hours in preparation for the event for the past 22 years. Don’t forget about the phenomenal three-course meal by Executive Chef Klaus Happel, whose kitchen has executed over 10,500 meals over the past 22 years.
For the last 21 years, The Collection has enhanced the live auction by featuring a luxurious car. The Collection team says that they, “bring the live auction car into the freight elevator very early on Friday morning, and literally drive it through the kitchen of the hotel and then out the ballroom doors!” Talk about commitment!
And what’s an event without amazing drinks? Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits disclosed that for the past 22 years, guests have enjoyed 4,822 bottles of champagne; 16,201 bottles of wine; 2,144 bottles of vodka; and 17,200 bottles of water. That is roughly 219 champagne bottles, 736 wine bottles, 97 bottles of vodka and 782 bottles of water per year!
Knowing these details from the sponsors has us still wondering if there is a secret fairy Godmother to help them along the way. We will soon find out at this year’s upcoming Make-A-Wish Ball, as the planning for the following year starts the following day after the grand event! Stay tuned.