Previous Events
Previous Events
2010
July
2OCEANSVIBE RADIO – ALREADY A LEGEND
The highly anticipated 2OceansVibe Radio hosted by The Little Black Book on 29 July 2010, had excited guests taking a sneak peak of the glass encased studio situated at the Cape Quarter Lifestyle Village in Green Point. Guests were entertained by the elegant Carol Thorns from Coda strumming the electric cello while sipping complimentary Peroni, DeGrendel and Boschendal wine.
MC Mark Bayly introduced guests to the stars of 2OceansVibe Radio, Seth Rotherham and Richard Hardiman before introducing the first act of the evening, I Scream And The Chocolate Stix. Guests were served delicious canapés as they got a chance to chat to Seth and Richard and get a feel for the new studio. Surprise guest artist, Jack Parow then took to the stage sporting his signature hat and boxers and got the crowd singing to his debut song “Cooler as Ekke”. Blend sponsored all of the furniture, bars and event infrastructure for the evening, as we were proud to apart of such an exciting event. Dream Wedding DJ’s kept the party pumping with funky tunes as our favourite tuxedo dressed delivery guy from Butlers arrived with piping hot pizzas to end off the great night.
June
Holland versus Cameroon
On 24 June 2010, the Cape Town stadium hosted the anticipated semi final game between Holland and Cameroon. Blend was proud to partner up with Hospitality Affairs and Green Catering for a pre-event, held at the most fitting venue, the Cape Town Castle. The theme was the ‘World Cup’ and the colour was orange. Blend supplied a number of differently styled plinths and a variety of other event infrastructure, all lit brightly in orange. Blend managed all aspects of the food and beverage service with our bartenders, waitrons and wine stewards accessorised with all sorts of Dutch emblems and mementos.
The delicious menu was prepared by several Michelin starred chefs, flown in from the Royal Netherlands, together with the top chefs at Green Catering. The menu was based on a food and wine pairing, and each course was served professionally by the blend team with the accompanying wine. After the guests had wined and dined in true Cape Dutch style, they made their way to the Cape Town stadium where Holland took the lead over Cameroon beating them two goals to one. The event was an enormous success and we all certainly did “paint the town orange.
View Holland versus Cameroon Gallery
The Waterfront Eye Launch
Blend was privileged to play a small, intimate role in this auspicious and historic occasion. By providing Caviar with our spotless new white bars, we assisted in providing style and elegance to this event, which not only marks the launch of an exciting tourist attraction, but also marks the significance of the world’s most famous sporting event, held in our own backyard.
View Waterfront Eye Launch Gallery
wAcKy WiNe WeEkEnD – Arabella Wine Estate 2010
What a spectacular weekend! Blend – Eventlife was involved with a very successful Wacky Wine Weekend through Arabella Wine Estate this year. Arabella’s marketing campaign leading up to the event ensured that everyone knew about their line up, great wines, spectacular camping facilities with hot water showers and a brilliant atmosphere that no other would rival. The weekend started with warm skies and the energy could be felt throughout the crowd. Campers flooded in to secure their sites and setup camp for the weekend. Fish Bowl got the weekend underway playing live music to suit all moods, later that night the Wedding DJ’s strung up a mixed match of old, new, dance and sing along songs to get the crowd of 1500 strong dancing through till the very early(perhaps late) hours of the morning.
Saturday was even more interesting as the BLEND crew knew what was install for them and after a very fresh night of camping out under the clear skies with the horses of Arabella, another excited wave of avid wine drinkers poured into Arabella to taste wines, get something to eat and watch the South African Rugby, the rugby finished and Fish bowl managed to get everyone on their feet and in the mood for an enthralling night of dancing, laughter and fun! BLEND’s custom created cocktails were highly sought after and the bar was flooded with orders from early on. The team at BLEND created 3 cocktails for Arabella for having us for the weekend.
View Wacky Wine Weekend Gallery
May
Unveiling of World Cup Trophy
Sunday the 9th of May 2010 saw the unveiling the of the FIFA Soccer World Cup trophy in Cape Town. The Lookout in the V&A Waterfront played host to this auspicious occasion and although the weather did not play its part, Blend certainly did. Green Catering whipped up some delicious warm curry and along with other mouth watering canapés, helped to take away that winter chill. Blend were very proud to assist Green Catering with service staff and barmen to make sure that this once-in-a-lifetime event would not be forgotten and one which even our own Western Cape Premier, Helen Zille, could not afford to miss out on.
April
Olive Festival 2010
On the weekend 30th April 2010, the 10th annual Olive festival was held out in the Riebeek Valley. After Blend’s successful input last year the organisers did not hesitate to invite Blend on board yet again. The centre of town was the place to be and here Blend truly showcased their event management skills. From the organizing of big screens, bands and a mobile ATM machine, to an exclusive foods tent, the Blend team handled it efficiently and with the style that the team has come to be known for. Friday saw the warm-up to the weekend with live rugby screened at the venue, along with a short set from the featured band, Second Half. Saturday, however, was when this quiet little town really came to life. People in their thousands streamed into the valley to experience this unique festival. The Blend tent was the hot spot of choice, providing guests with the opportunity to take a break from the heat, whilst enjoying an ice cold beverage. After two very exciting rugby games, guests were entertained by the sounds of Second Half who had the young and old dancing up a storm together. Everyone who attended the event had a great time and our team is looking forward to being involved in what promises to be an even bigger and better event in 2011.
A little bit of Jazz?
The streets surrounding the Cape Town Convention Centre (CTICC) came alive this past weekend with the soulful sounds of jazz. This, the 11th year of the Jazz Festival, saw many well know names such as Ronny Jordan, Charles Lloyd, Toots Thielemans, and many more in the jazz music scene, strut their stuff on the various stages in and around the CTICC. This year’s event was once again organized by the team from ESP Afrika. Blend’s participation involved the managing of the Baseline Bar, ensuring that all participants had a very festive weekend. Despite the windy conditions the crowds came in their thousands to see some of the finest musicians the jazz industry has to offer and nobody left disappointed.
March
ABSA Cape Epic
The ABSA Cape Epic has grown to become one of the worlds most prestigious and scenic mountain bike races. Lourensford Estate was the venue for the finish line for the fourth year running. Knights Catering coordinated and catered for the ABSA hospitality tent. Coffee bars and coffee machines were provided by Blend to ensure that all the early birds could get their caffeine fix. Congratulations to all the riders who completed this amazing race and we hope we will be there next year to welcome you home once again.
Mosselberg Wedding
The Blend team and their entourage packed their bags and headed off to Hermanus for a wedding held at Mosselberg guesthouse on Grotto Beach. The team transformed the busy guesthouse into a luxurious dinner venue for 130 guests. Luckily the weather was on their side and the wind dropped to create a perfect evening for Mark & Marie who started off the celebrations at ‘Just Pure’ eatery for pre-reception drinks. They then made their way to the guesthouse for the main celebrations and proceedings. The groom, being an avid golfer, had the tables named after famous golf courses that he had had the privilege of playing at. Guests were served cocktails from Blend’s brand new bar structures and danced the night away. .
Management: Blend Eventlife
Bar Structures: Blend Eventlife
Barman & Service Staff: Blend Eventlife
Caterer: Salt & Pepper Catering
Bokomo Golf Day – Boschenmeer Golf Course
Bokomo approached Blend to create various breakfast smoothies using the Bokomo Right-Start Breakfast Cereals. Berries, peaches, almonds and banana’s were chosen to compliment the bran, oat & wholewheat cereals in the smoothies, which were served to the golfers as they teed off at their first hole. The smoothie bar was later transformed into a cocktail bar serving frozen Margaritas, Mojitos and frozen Rude Cosmopolitans to refresh the gentlemen after 18 holes in the scorching heat.
A wonderful wedding is Webbersberg
In mid- March Blend assisted with the organising and running of the wedding of Remy & Louis at Webbersberg Wine Estate. Blend designed lemonade stands for the guests for pre-ceremony drinks. This very versatile bar then transformed into a champagne bar before the guests moved downstairs for the reception. These new bar structures added the perfect touch to the elegant décor that was chosen for the room.
SuperSport Media Campaign
World Cup fever has truly gripped our nation in more ways than we can imagine. As one of the broadcasters of the World Cup, SuperSport will play an integral part in bringing the beautiful game to millions.
The morning of 12thMarch saw Blend arrive at the new Green point Stadium to assist Lisa and her team from Show Worx in hosting a very interesting and entertaining media conference. The theme was black and white and Blend provided a hexagonal bar to compliment the theme. With all the activities on the go, guests were in need of cold refreshments and the Blend barmen were more than accommodating.
Starlight Classics at Vergelegen
Vergelegen Wine Estate, in Somerset West played host to the annual Starlight Classics music concert. Artists on the evening included Freshlyground, Zwai Bala, Zip Zap Circus, Annake de Villiers, Brandon October, Angela Kerrison, Jazzart and the Pro Cantu Youth Choir who along with the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra. These entertainers had the audience captivated throughout the evening. Blend played a small but integral role in the evening providing approximately 700 VIP guests with drinks throughout the course of the concert. Event organizer, Kirsten Weir, managed this prestigious event with absolute ease, and Blend was very happy to have been able to assist her on the evening.
February
Little Pink Book Second Edition
The month of February saw the launch of the second edition of The Little Pink Book. For those who don’t know, The Little Pink Book is a bride’s answer to any questions she may have regarding her big day. The evening was organized by learners from the Aleit Academy. As one of the preferred suppliers in The Little Pink Book, Blend were more than happy to come on board for the event. Blend provided white bars with pink lights, which suited the theme perfectly and the barmen ensured that everyone’s needs were met.
Waterford Annual Harvest, 10 Year Anniversary
Waterford celebrated their 10th anniversary this year and was looking for a fresh new look for their annual harvest. Blend, as always, was more than happy to oblige.
The weekend of events started early on Friday 26th February with the annual Waterford luncheon, where Blend provided infrastructure and beverages. Saturday, however was truly where the Blend team was able to showcase its quality services. With approximately 350 guests in attendance, expecting only the highest quality of service, the Blend Team knew that only the best would do.
On arrival, at the foot of the breathtaking citrus tree pathway, guests were greeted with the finest Waterford champagne. As they made their way up the pathway towards the winery, an array of canapés were offered by Blend service staff standing to attention at intervals along the way. Before entering this esteemed winery, guests were given white helium balloons and these were all simultaneously let go with the opening of the wrought iron gates leading into the venue. As guests entered through the gates, they were treated to the sounds of opera which added to the unique ambience of the evening.
The theme for this year’s event was elegance, centered around the colour of pure white. The courtyard was lit with hundreds of white lampshades hanging at various heights from the beautifully lit trees. These created a canopy under which chic white tables were set. The spectacular courtyard fountain was ultimately the focal point, as it glowed with elegance.
The food stations provided by Blend were presented in such a way that guests could select and create the perfect combination when it came to their meals. The coffee and candy bars were also an absolute hit and satisfied everyone’s sweet tooth.
Blend also went as far as to custom-make furniture for the event to ensure that the vision that the client had would come to life. The team of 30 staff ensured everything ran smoothly and made certain that everyone’s needs were met. The entertainment lasted until the early hours of the morning and the barmen ensured that all were attended to.Blend’s Event Management Team truly took this event to a whole new level and are looking forward to next year. .
Event Management: Blend.
Infrastructure: Blend.
Staffing: Blend.
Hiring: Blend.
Catering: A. Buchanan.
Lighting: Something Different.
Entertainment: Waterford.
January
2010 J&B Met: ‘In Full Colour’
Although this year saw the J&B Met decrease in size somewhat, this did not affect Blend’s involvement in one of South Africa’s biggest sporting events. Blend’s participation nearly tripled from last year in terms of the service and infrastructure provided, from bars and staff to our signature food stations, the standard had definitely been raised. In total Blend provided over 100 meters of bars at various tents and marquees throughout the Hospitality Village and the Picnic Sites. Blend assembled a team of 213 staff members which included 11 supervisors, 100 service staff, 71 bartenders and 31 bar runners, all of whom provided the guests with the highest quality of service, which has come to be expected from all of Blend’s staff. We look forward to what 2011 has in store.
View J&B Met Gallery
2009
December
Truworths year end – Old School is Cool
The theme for this year was ‘Old School is Cool’ and there was no holding back when organizing this event. Guests, who were perfectly dressed to the theme, were welcomed with a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic ice lollies on arrival. Delicious food, prepared by Dish, was served from various food stations located throughout the venue. Blend Service staff manned the bars and made sure that all the Truworths employees were looked after. Event Co-ordinators: Event Interiors Catering: Dish Food & Social Service staff and Barman: Blend Eventlife.
Bosch Fest
This year saw the inauguration of the Bosch Fest in Stellenbosch. The Blend team was called in to transform the Sanlam Hall in the Neelsie Student Centre into a relaxing coffee lounge where students could come and enjoy a cappuccino, latté, Americano or a simple cup of good old Rooibos. Coffee bars, Furniture and Barristers: Blend Eventlife.
Mixit Year End
Stellenrust Wine Estate was the setting for the employees of Mxit’s year end function. Blend was very proud to assist Lisa and her team from Show Worxs on the evening. Blend provided a funky multi-coloured bar, which complimented the theme perfectly and Blend’s cocktail bartenders whipped up some delicious alcoholic and non-alcoholic frozen daiquiris for guests on arrival. Event co-ordinators: Show Worx Bar structures & Bartenders: Blend Eventlife.
The Dutch Pioneership FIFA 2014
Blend worked alongside the team from Green Catering, assisting in the coordination and management of the Dutch Pioneership event, which took place at the Zip Zap Circus Tent in Cape Town, on 3 December 2009. The event consisted of a series of live interviews with local celebrities, and various exciting performances and entertainment by the Zip Zap Circus team. This was followed by a 6-course tasting menu and wine pairing. Prepared by Chef Margot Janse (Head Chef: le quartier francais) Event Co-ordination: Hospitality Affairs & Green Catering Management and Service Staff: Blend Eventlife.
The Noon Gun FIFA Event (Media Welcome)
Blend proudly assisted ESP Events and Green Catering at the FIFA Prelim Event, held at the Noon Gun on 2 December 2009. Attending this prestigious event was FIFA President Sepp Blatter, who addressed the Media and welcomed everyone to Cape Town for the FIFA Draw. Event Co-ordination: ESP Events Catering: Green Catering Bars and Bartenders: Blend Eventlife.
November
Maya Prass Constantia Store’s 1st Birthday
Maya Prass celebrated their first birthday in conjunction with the launch of their new summer collection, which included hand-drawn prints, in an array of seasonal colours. Blend’s bars, with soft pastel lighting and fresh summer cocktails, created by Blend cocktail barman complimented the theme for the evening. On the food side, an array of cheese and breads and beautiful cupcakes were on display for guests to indulge in.
The Opening of the new Deloitte Offices
The month of October saw the Deloitte staff make the gradual move from there old offices in Claremont to their new premises in the Cape Quarter Extension on Somerset Road. This very challenging process resulted in their official opening being held on the 20th of November. Blend was very proud to be part of this special occasion, as Deloittes has been a valued customer for the past two and half years.
The theme for the evening was ‘Carnival’ with mechanical bulls, sumo wrestling, quick draw shoot outs and even virtual horse races. Not to be out done by the games the Blend team rolled in and set up two lovely white bars, and a very yummy candy bar that had everyone coming back for more. Although the heat was almost unbearable the service staff and barman attended to all the clients with absolute ease. Blend would like to wish Deloitte all the best for the future in their new offices.
Beau Constance House Party
A house party many of us would only dream of hosting. On arrival guests followed a long black carpet along the roof top of this glorious home where they were met by Blend Shooter girls. After having a shot or two, guests entered the party by sliding down an enormous blow up slide, from the roof top down to the garden.
Blends cocktail bartenders couldn’t shake the delicious drinks fast enough, and while some guests took to the dance floor, most were found indulging in treats from the infamous Blend Candy Bar.
Execujet Hanger Launch
The new Execujet hanger, home too many privately owned jets and smaller aircraft, officially launched early this month. 350 guests were in attendance, and were welcomed by a glass of bubbly by Blends attentive service staff. The magnificent planes and exotic cars formed a one of a kind backdrop behind the Blend Bars, which were placed all around the venue, ensuring that nobody went thirsty.
Adidas Triple Helix Party
Blend joined the party at the launch of the new Adidas concept store, on Loop Street. The bash was themed around the model of a “triple helix” Guests were greeted and served by “blend nurses” who “prescribed” the appropriate shooters in the real-life ambulance. Blends barmen, wearing their hospital arm bands, were kept busy behind the bar until the early hours of the morning. The live carving of the Adidas sneaker kept guests entertained, while the shooter bar drew guests onto the dance floor.
October
2009 Blend Eventlife Seasonal Re-launch
This time around and we are proud to say that the generous contributions from our sponsors; and the help from our suppliers, allowed us to put together a world-class event. From a live ice carving, fire blowers and decadent food bars to live music, we successfully showcased our latest offerings.
On arrival guest were greeted by a refreshing pomegranate slush, served in a Margarita glass, topped with fresh fruit and delicious canapés, served by James and his team from Salt and Pepper Catering.
As guests eagerly waited to enter our warehouse, which had now been completely transformed, James from Ice Art performed a live ice carving of the Blend Logo. At the entrance to the warehouse, guests were able to read our most recent press clippings and articles and interact with a mock-up version of our now complete website, that had be mounted in our New Media and Training Room.
This year, much like last year, the theme was aimed at guest interaction. Our interactive food and desert stations were as always, an absolute hit. With a Sushi Bar one can never go wrong, this station was accompanied by a champagne bar and simply put, our guests could not get enough.
The miso and pho bar allowed guests to decide exactly which Asian-style food they preferred and in what combination and the calamari, fish and chips food station was equally successful and added that little bit of cape flair to the evening. The catering on both of these bars was kindly sponsored by Dish Food and Social.
To end off the food for the evening, we showcased our latest take on portable desert stations. With delectable desserts provided by Lori Darroch, of Persimmon Catering and mouthwatering cupcakes and personalized Blend Chocolates provided by Sarah, from Sarah Jane’s Cupcakes, we could not have asked for more.
If that wasn’t enough we launched our Self Service Candy Bars, which consisted of beautifully decorated glass jars filled with hundreds of jelly beans, marshmallow’s, tumbles, bon-bons, lolly-pops, honeycomb and fudge, the list goes on. There were scoops and tongs and take away packets, need we say more.
The formalities of the evening went underway while guests ate and drank to their hearts content. After the speeches the live music began and Second Half truly put on a great show. A few were a little weary to get on the dance floor but once the ice had been broken there was no holding back.
To all our wonderful suppliers, Salt and Pepper, Dish Food, Persimmon Catering,Sarah Jane Cupcakes, Red Hot Events, Something Different, Unlimited Events, Ice Art, Second Half, Kilowatt, Nomadik, Nice Equipment, House of Juice, Ice for Africa, Pussy, Un-ltd Promotions and Event, Quaffee, who helped make the evening a roaring success, we cannot thank you for your generosity. To all those who attended, thank you for being a part of the evening, and finally to those who could not make it, we hope to see you next year.
View Blend Re-Launch Gallery
Positive Heroes Charity Fashion Show & Auction
“ A charity event to remember.” The Runway in Woodstock was the venue for this auspicious occasion. Positive Heroes' fresh and uplifting approach to HIV, raises the profile of South Africans who are living positively with HIV.
The fashion show and auction was held in order to help raise money and spread the word of living positively with HIV. Positive Heroes approached Blend and proposed the idea and we jumped at the opportunity to be part of such a great cause. Blend sponsored all the bar infrastructure and glassware. The evening was a tremendous success and over R75 000 was raised in aid of this great cause. Blend would like to thank Positive Heroes for allowing us to be associated with such a positive cause and we truly hope that we can become more involved in the future.
View Positive Heroes Charity Fashion Show Gallery
September
The 35th Annual Nederberg Wine Auction
Blend’s expert bartenders made history in 2009 at the 35th Annual Nederberg Wine Auction, in Paarl. Approximately 800 guests were in attendance, enhancing the festive atmosphere of the event. The exquisite champagne and sushi lounge, casual outdoor grill and sophisticated whiskey and brandy bar, ensured that everyone was catered for. If that wasn’t enough, guests were kept entertained with a live photo shoot and fashion show, courtesy of Cosmopolitan Magazine. This featured some of South Africa’s local talent, as well as music and entertainment by some of the Cape’s hottest up and coming artists.
Blend held true to its reputation by offering flawless service throughout the event and by being of assistance where needed. Blend is very proud to have been part of our first ever Nederberg Wine Auction and we hope to be back in 2010!
View Nederberg Gallery
The 2009 Loerie Mayoral Service
It was the mother city’s turn to host the 31st installment of the prestigious Loerie Awards. Blend played an integral part in this years’ Mayoral service, providing two 4.5m white bars and in excess of 30 staff to meet the needs of all that attended.
The Loerie have become a promising award ceremony that many in the brand communication world hope to attend and Blend is very proud to have played a part in this coveted occasion.
View Loerie Mayoral Service Gallery
The 2009 Bishops Matric Dance
On 23 September Blend was involved with the Bishops Matric Dance. On the evening Blend’s Black Bar structures, with golden lights, complemented the classic Great Gatsby theme. The grade 8 boys were the attentive service staff for the evening, while Blend’s bartenders showed off their talents behind the bar. Once the formalities were out of the way, the scholars piled into buses and headed off to the after-party, which was also arranged by the Blend Team.
View Bishops Matric Dance Gallery
August
Gavin Rajah Fashion Show 2009
The 22nd of August saw Gavin Rajah host another spectacular fashion show, with the launch of his new summer range. This time however, there was a certain ‘blend’ to the function. A sleek white 4.5m bar, accompanied by stylish furniture, transformed an empty walkway into an elegant and chic venue. The new natural energy drink, Pussy, along with Blend, were 2 of the sponsors on the evening. The guests were welcomed with a Pussy Martini and the pronunciation of this drink did cause a stir to say the least, but once the martini was tasted, there was no hesitation in ordering the next few!
View Gavin Rajah Fashion Show Gallery
A Barmi at the Biscuit Mill
What a fun filled Sunday at the Biscuit Mill in Woodstock! With a traditional carnival/funfair theme, it was hard not to have fun! Blend shook up many exciting mocktails for the teenagers to enjoy, whilst the adults took pleasure in a more serious drink at the “Parents” bar. With Blend taking care of all aspects of the service, the evening had to be a great success.
View Barmi at the Biscuit Mall Gallery
The 2009 Wacky Wine Weekend
The Wacky Wine Festival, visited by over 1000 people a year, took place in Robertson in the fair Cape winelands, this year. Blend was brought in by Top Cape Town caterers to provide their ‘never seen before’ sushi and wok bars. We again outperformed all expectations to help make the weekend an unforgettable one for everyone.
View Wacky Wine Weekend Gallery
July
Re- Launch Hotel Le Vendome
One of the small luxury hotels of the world, The Hotel Le Vendome this year, after changing ownership and management,celebrated their re launch. After 11 years this Sea Point based Hotel pulled out all the stops to make a great reappearance to the Hotel Industry. “Moulin Rouge” was the inspiration behind the décor, and Blend shook up cocktails to suit the theme. All proceeds went to charity which BLEND is always happy to be a part of.
View Re-Launch Hotel Le Vendome Gallery
June
Blend Causes a Stir at the Spoon Room
With the winter blues upon us, it was time for Blend, in conjunction with Dish Food and Social, to heat things up a little with Round one of this seasons Spoon Room. The location was the corner of Mill and Hope Street in Gardens, the home of Dish Food and Social. A complimentary baby apple and vanilla martini greeted the guests on this chilly evening, along with a shooter of their choice. A beautiful four meter while Blend bar with red lighting was the focal point of the room. The shooter bar was a hit and with a new shot on offer, "the dishwasher", guests were running back for more. Service was, as always, of the highest standard.
Episode 2 of this season's series of the Spoon Room was named the SPOON ROOM BOOM!
Guests were welcomed with an ingenious cocktail of Van Ryns Brandy, which was kindly sponsored by Van Ryn's Distillery, and peach ice tea, which was based on the concept of the classic "Pimms Cocktail," but with a unique twist.
BLEND's barmen were once again on top form, attending to all the thirsty guests, with energy and charisma. Dish outdid themselves, serving delicious canapè's adding to the roaring success of the Spoon Room Boom.
View Spoon Room Gallery
May
BLENDing old and new at the 2009 Olive Festival.
Once a year, the quiet town of Riebeek-Kasteel springs to life, to host the ever popular Olive Festival. This year BLEND proposed that custom-made cocktails could be created using the wines from Riebeek-Kasteel and the surrounding Swartland areas. With wine cocktails being a new concept to some of the local wine makers, BLEND decided to take time out to go and visit each of the farms and explain in detail what the process entailed and how the cocktails would be put together. Five farms were interested and BLEND went to work on creating a total of seven new cocktails. Various grape varieties were used to create these unique cocktails, including Merlot, Shiraz and Chenin Blanc. Most of the wine makers themselves visited the BLEND cocktail bar and were amazed at what had been created from each of their own wines. BLEND is looking forward to the 2010 Olive Festival, and the opportunity to add more to this prestigious event.
View Olive Festival Gallery
April
Blend gets a Taste
The Jan Van Riebeeck Sports Field was the venue for this year’s annual Taste of Cape Town and what a location it was! BLEND was privileged to provide not only one, but two sites with bars and service for this event. The Grolsch and Sarita tents had the most ideal location on the field and the respective brand language covering the Blend bars, it was no wonder these tents were an absolute hit. This together with service excellence, truly grabbed the guest’s attention. BLEND supervisors were on hand to ensure that all went according to plan. The 2nd to 5th of April were beyond a doubt a very spectacular couple of days and BLEND is looking forward to getting an even bigger taste next year.
View Taste of Cape Town Gallery
March
Wine Tourism News 5th Birthday Bash
World’s Favorite Publications, who publish monthly newspaper Wine Tourism News, held their 5th annual birthday celebration in style this year with BLEND. BLEND arrived with one goal in mind: to make this the best birthday bash WTN had ever had. Everything from the bars, décor, furniture and unique interactive food stations - BLEND provided it all. Service with a smile was the order of the day, with the barmen whipping up custom-made wine cocktails to tantalize the guest’s taste buds. Six quality wines were also on offer and were clearly distinguishable by the custom branded bars from which they were served. This birthday bash was truly an event to write home about!
View Wine Tourism Gallery
Western Union at Lourensford Wine Estate
Lourensford Wine Estate, established in the 1700’s and arguably one of the most beautiful wine estates in the world was the venue for the last stop of Western Unions’ Cape Town conference tour in March 2009.
800 guests were bussed to the Estate and were warmly welcomed by Blend with a refreshing welcome. Blend was tasked with running the floor and the operation of 2 beverage bars, both serving 400 guests. While Blend barmen were kept busy making cocktails, guests partied till the early hours of the morning.
View Western Union at Lourensford Wine Estate Gallery
February
Blend proudly assists the Red Cross Children’s Hospital
We were proud to have been chosen to facilitate the service and running of the Red Cross Children's Hospital Art Benefit, in February of this year. The event was in aid of raising the much-needed funds for the construction of the new wing and family resource centre within the hospital.
BLEND provided 120 efficient staff members from Floor Managers, to Bar Tenders, from Wine Stewards to Service Staff as well as Porters who attended to the guests every need, in a professional and friendly manner. The venue incorporated a crisp white theme including crystals, silver and sparkling chandeliers to complete the elegant atmosphere. Owner of BLEND Eventlife, Ian Ashforth stated, “Not only did it make us proud to be chosen for an event of this caliber, but to be part of a positive awareness campaign for the Red Cross Children's Hospital.”
The benefit was the fifth to date with a grand total of R9 million raised since its inception in 2003. Patron of the trust, Amanda Bloch stated, “The benefit this year was an enormous success and raised R3.07 Million for the construction of the new family resource centre.”
View Red Cross Children's Hospital Gallery
January
The 2009 J & B Met
With every year that passes the J&B Met just seems to be getting bigger and better, and this year was no different. Blend provided the main hospitality village with in excess of 65 staff members, which ranged from bartenders, service staff and porters to managers, all working as one cohesive unit, to meet every need of the client.
Starting the day at six thirty in the morning, Blend staff knew that they were in for a long and hot day, and were not proven wrong when only clocking out at one the following morning. Blend also provided two picnic sites, with bar structures and furniture. These two picnic sites stood head and shoulders above the rest and were enjoyed by all of those who joined us.
View J & B Met Gallery
2008
Infected Mushroom
The Infected Mushroom Concert was held at the Bellville Velodrome, for 5000 people. The Blend team was responsible for the set up of 39 meters of white and black bars, all uniquely branded. Furniture and cigarette dispensers were also brought in by the team and were set up with hours to spare.
View Infected Mushroom Gallery
A Pink 21st Like No Other
The special request for a pink themed 21st was perfectly embraced by the Blend crew. The brief from the client was ‘as much pink as possible’! The white bars and white plinths, both with pink lights, looked amazing. Specific décor was chosen to complement every aspect of the function, from fairy lights to mirror boxes and of course pink candles were on display. A variety of ottomans and love benches were also provided to help those out who might have had one too many or simply needed to rest their legs after a razzle on the dance floor. It was truly a Pink 21st like no other.
View Pink 21st Gallery
Sael Year End Party
The Sael Offices were the venue for the Sael employee appreciation, year end function in November 2008. French Bistro was the theme, the existing courtyard neatly tucked away off the busy street, was lit with beautiful red, white and blue hanging lanterns an array of fairy lights suspended from high palms trees. On arrival guest were greeted with a classic French 75 cocktail and a beautiful replica of the Eiffel Tower. The food was served by Blend’s very own French Maids and Sailors and all guests received authentic French berets. The evening continued with entertainment from 2 man live band and ended as a traditional noisy French café.
View Sael Year End Party Gallery
Party in the Park
Black River Office Park held their annual Party in the Park function and Blend was proud to be associated with this event. With an expected attendance of about 700, the Blend team were out in full force to ensure that the high level of service was maintained and that the function ran without a hitch. A 6m bar was erected under the Bedouin and stood out as a feature. This was complemented by only the best barmen. Music by “Goldfish” was the main attraction on the evening and they absolutely rocked the party. The request to have goldfish in bowls on the bars was met with open arms and really added that little something extra.
View Party in the Park Gallery
2006
An “Ignited” New Years
Ignite needed a stylish bar to accommodate the expected 1000 guests at their New Years Eve party. The bar needed to fit well with this Camp’s Bay clubs’ décor and image and serve the purpose to increase turnover on the evening.
View New Years Gallery
ACSA Year End
Where better to have a function for Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) than at the Airport. The bongo drummers, live cockerels and hens and Pap and Gravy complemented the traditional Shabeen theme. Dinner was served on enamel crockery, the tables were dressed with shwe shwe linen, and centre pieces were made from handmade wire flowers. A live show from Cape Gum boot dancers was the entertainment for the evening. Guests spent the rest of the evening dancing or chilling out in the lounge areas decorated with colourful beanbags, beach sand and chicken cages.
View ACSA Year End Gallery
Johnny Walker 2006 Eat Out Awards
Blend provided the perfect setting for a prestigious evening, for Eat Out Magazine's Awards. 300 guests and 4 courses plated was the order of the evening. BLEND organized & supplied a full set up and break down crew and Wine stewards and Service Staff, to create an award winning experience. BLEND worked alongside some of the best chefs and restaurants in the country and is featured on page 219 of Eat Out Magazine 2007.
View Jonnhy Walker eat out Gallery
