Caribbean Breezes: August ABC Meeting, Seattle

It may have been the sweet concoction of guava and rum created by host Foodz Catering or perhaps it was the island beats coming from the steel drums of Gary Gibson, but the corner of Queen Anne and Thomas, home of Acalia Events & Reception, looked a lot more like the Caribbean than Seattle on Monday night.

The August meeting for the Washington ABC (Association of Bridal Consultants) concluded once again with much success as 60+ members and guests gathered for a time of networking, reconnecting, learning and of course eating. Guests dined on eclectic menu items from Foodz Catering consisting of Hor D Oeuvres of pulled pork with banana ketchup, macadamia nut and brie canapes, watermelon gazpacho, and shrimp ceviche and a mouth-watering dinner of grilled chicken with a kick of jerk.

During the meal, attendees heard from guest speaker Relaena Sindelar of Sindelar Communications and Marketing who reminded us all about the importance and relevance of online social networking through Facebook, My Space, Twitter, Linked In and other media outlets. Members were also introduced to the local representative for Sandals Resorts, a partner of ABC.

During a somber moment, members took time to remember Sean Patrick O'Reilly, a prominent and influential member of the wedding industry, who recently passed away.

The evening concluded with the announcement of the raffle winners who took home prizes donated by B&E and the Puget Sound Wedding Resource Guide, Three Chicks Catering, Foodz Catering, Me Me & Co, and the Columbia Tower Club.

Announcements:

• The September 21st ABC meeting will be held at the Woodland Park Zoo
• Invitations for future meetings will be sent from Pingg, a new online invitation service
• Bring a guest to the next meeting and earn a free raffle ticket
• Be sure to check out ABC's social networking sites on Facebook and Twitter
• Sign up to receive the ABC e-newsletter on the official website
• Stay tuned for information on the upcoming "Best Wedding" competition through ABC