ASID's Annual Spring Fling

In true Michigan fashion, our Spring Fling event had questionable, cloudy weather, cooler temperatures and light sprinkles but that did not stop members, Industry Partners, and Emerging Professionals from the coming out to enjoy the change of pace and scenery that Interior Environments offered.

As an approved All Steel dealer, creative collaborative workspaces, configurable wall systems, and mobile lounge seating allowed us to set the space for mingling, networking, and of course- our derby themed team challenge. Guests arrived in their best plaids, wide brimmed hats, even culottes! and were warmly greeted by Sherry Tattrie, Committee Member, and Jeffery Kolp, President Elect.

Tickets could be redeemed at the door and students were graciously sponsored by Marcus Perry of Blakely Products. Dwane Adle, ASID Past President and Annual Events Committee Chairperson had arranged in advance a notable cause suitable for the occasion. Half of all proceeds from the event were donated to Camp Casey, an organization that brings riding camps and surprise "horse calls" to sick children. One of the charities founders was present for the festivities and nearly brought us to tears as she shared their mission, their purpose, and their passion in a video montage worthy of the You Tube hall of fame.

After warming up (both to bite the chill and to get us socializing) over Maker's Mark Mint Juleps, shrimp cocktails, marinated asparagus, and warm biscuit sandwiches provided by The Lafayette Market catering, guests were shuffled into random teams for a 'decorate your derby hat' contest. What better way to meet new people than amongst ribbons, glue, feathers and sequence? Especially when gift cards for the winners were on the line! Sandra Brown of Mark English & Associates (whom I always see at Drinks by Design events or anywhere "happening" in Detroit) a Decorative Artist and Muralist, Jill Gordon, who certainly knows how to improvise beauty, along with Paul Nieddu of Nieddu Draperies - who immediately went to the sewing kit - had the misfortune of joining my team. After hungrily sorting through the bins of supplies over the tops of other teams, my group decided on a color palette then quickly adhered anything and everything we could to the straw hat within the allotted 10 minute hustle.

Votes were cast not only for the best hat, but the best dressed to the event as well. Ann Sacks representative Tina Rossi provided a 'his and hers' bottle of bourbon for our winners, along with the Sherwin-Williams and Ferguson sponsored gift cards for the best hat creators. Right at this moment I realized, oh! It's time to pick up my sister from the airport - I better go! I said a hurried goodbye to my guests Barb Klien of Creative Impressions and Kimberly Sansone from Kraemer Design Group and rushed out the door. Oops! Without even a thank you to Interior Environments host Reggie Rolland. Thank you! And to all of those who made my Thursday night one I'd be able to share as a memorable and fantastic "Kentucky Derby" party.

If you don't know these Industry Partners and valuable board members - be sure to mark your calendar for their next event series; "Industry Night" where every 2nd Tuesday of the month we will rotate dining venues and cities with member mingle happy hours throughout the summer months.