Are you ready to hear all about the Summer Carnival? I’ll warn you, it’s picture heavy. And this is only a fraction of what I actually took. But it was a seriously picture-worthy event … you’ll see what I mean.
I had an amazing time and I’m so thankful I had this opportunity. I’ve never experienced anything like it and it was something I’ll never forget.
Thursday night’s festivities took place at Cafe Centro.
We had a delicious dinner and heard from Mark Bonchek, Senior Vice President, Communities and Networks for Sears Holdings. He spoke briefly about the age of social networking, a great topic for a room full of bloggers.
I love the tag lines associated with the line.
After the tour, the bus took us back to The Kitchen NYC for the big event with Sandra. We walked downstairs into the event space and were greeted with beautiful decorations.
We were greeted by Sandra and each of us had our photo taken with her on the red carpet.
Lunch was set up in a room that had been transformed into an elegant summer carnival.
A table full of colored soda …
… more soda set in a bright red case {I so want one of these for my pool area} …
… and a beautiful red and white display using Sandra’s dishes all set the mood for the party.
Isn’t this a clever idea? Paper straws stuck into a bouquet. So simple to replicate but the look was eye-catching.
A delicious lunch buffet was set to the side …
… and more of Sandra’s products were used as display. Another great party decor idea: rolls of colored tickets to elevate a dessert bar. I love the look!
Sandra Lee spoke to us for a long time, going over each blogger’s history and blog genre …
… and then we broke into teams, grabbed a cocktail …
… and decorated tablescapes using some of Sandra’s holiday line {to be released later this year}.
Sandra went around to each of the tables and gave a little evaluation.
The press at the event was a bit nerve-wracking at first but we got used to the cameras and lights. Sandra didn’t even seem to notice them. Guess she’s pretty used to being in the limelight.
After the tablescape fun, we went into another room where Sandra spoke about some of her favorite products in the new line. The line has some great multi-functional items, fun shapes, and bright colors. Have any of you seen it yet in Sears or Kmart stores?
We ran out of time to do the cupcake decorating but wrapped the day up with a final cocktail time and a visit with Sandra. I couldn’t have been more impressed with Sandra. She’s so real, so down-to-earth, a great speaker, and really funny. It was like hanging out with a friend.
A final cocktail, Meringue Margs, were served. I love the cookie crusted rim.
I’ve started truncating my posts … please pop over to my blog to read the rest!
it was so much fun…I am still afloat!! I managed to get home with 3 pairs of scissors-on the plane!!! I am thrilled I was able to meet you!!! XOXOX
Looks like a wondreful time by all!!!
This looks amazing! What an opportunity!
It looks like it was so much fun! You are so lucky to have gone!
I loved reading this post, what a great opportunity!
EEEEKKKK! Randi! That looks like it was so much fun! What an amazing opportunity! You looked like you were having an amazing time…and your photos are awesome! Don’t feel shy about telling more…cuz I for one would love to hear it!!!! You rock.
What an amazing time! There are so many things I love. I’m glad you had a great time. You look beautiful!
I am so happy to have had the opportunity to hang out with you for a couple days! This was an amazing opportunity filled with amazing women (and men – cannot leave out the Sears/Kmart/Design team dudes!) and I love that we managed to see so much of NYC in such a short amount of time!
I’m totally in awe!!! How wonderful that you got to go!!! So fun and you are totally deserving! xoxo- Rachel
That’s so cool Randi!! I love the little details and rolls of tickets idea! Thanks for sharing your trip ~ looks like oyu had a fab time!!
xo
Heather
wow, Randi! It looks like you were having a great time with some great products! Are you sure YOU didn’t design all that wonderful stuff??? You are so talented.
How fun!! Her stuff looks fantastic! You look fantastic, great outfits 🙂 How did she choose the bloggers? What a great opportunity and great blog exposure for you. Did you get to see a bit of the city too?
That trip sounds amazing! Once in a lifetime, huh? Or maybe not. Maybe this is just the start of many trips to meet famous people. Heck, in the future bloggers might be flying to meet you! I’m glad you stepped out of your comfort zone and went on the trip!
Looks like you had lots of fun. Did you make some good contacts? Did you see Darcy or Martha?
Hi Randi, just wanted to let you know I included some of your quotes (and one of your photos) in an article about this event at Sheposts.
-Heather