Whether you’re madly in love, happily single, rich or poor, the organizers behind the “Pretty in Pink Sweetheart Gala” hope to offer a memorable night of dancing and dining when the event returns for its fourth year Feb. 10.
“It’s a melting pot of people,” said Mike Plaxa, who organizes the event with his son, Randall. “I’m just happy that everybody can go out and have a good time.”
The Plaxa family established a presence in Williamsburg through J.M. Randall’s, which existed as a restaurant for 22 years and now operates as an events company, hosting happenings such as “Pretty in Pink” throughout the year in support of groups such as Big Brothers, Big Sisters and Meals on Wheels.
Since its inception in 2015, the Valentine’s Day gala has benefited Beyond Boobs!, a Williamsburg-based organization supporting women with breast cancer that now works alongside nonprofit Pink Link under the umbrella, Here for the Girls.
“They approach it with joy and positivity,” Randall Plaxa said. “The community really rallies behind that spirit.”
The group’s happy-go-lucky approach to a serious cause complements the gala’s focus on fun.
“If you’re going to support a fundraiser, it makes it even better when it’s fun,” said Vicki Vawter, the programming and community relations manager at Here for the Girls.
The gala features a three-course dinner starring Chesapeake chicken — seared chicken breast adorned with Chesapeake crab and citrus beurre blanc — alongside salad and dessert offerings. Tickets include dinner, live music, a raffle ticket, tips and taxes — everything but the bar, which has its own offerings for purchase.
“It’s a tremendous dinner,” Mike Plaxa said. “You’re going to have a night of fun, a good dinner and you’re going to make some people very happy.”
The raffle, for which attendees can purchase additional tickets beyond the one included with admission, features prizes such as a $1,500 diamond necklace, concert tickets and dinners for two at area restaurants, including Paul’s Deli and Plaza Azteca.
Mike Plaxa also called the evening’s entertainment, the Right On Band, the “world’s best show band.” The 1970s-inspired ensemble, which specializes in Motown, disco and funk, has performed during presidential inaugurations and the Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration. Gala guests can choose to dress up in ‘70s garb to fully embrace the evening’s theme. As the night rages on, the band’s goal stands to fill the dance floor without regard for age, background or skill level.
Vawter said that despite what some might assume based on the “Sweetheart Gala” moniker, it’s meant as a fun night out for couples and singles alike.
“It’s a great way to celebrate Valentine’s Day, because it’s all about the love and we’re all about the love,” she said. “But I also think it’s a great way to get out and have some fun with friends.”
Want to go?
The “Pretty in Pink Sweetheart Gala” dances Feb. 10 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Kingsmill Resort, 50 Kingsmill Road. Tickets are $65 each, available at jmrandallsenterprises.com and by calling 407-340-4920 or 870-4487.
