For one unforgettable night, attendees stepped into a world of shimmering riches, high-seas adventure, and coastal glamour at the Engage!24 Amelia Island welcome party. The theme was ‘Island Treasures.’ It was inspired by the island’s storied past—where pirates once ruled the waters and eight different flags were flown above its shores. The venue was the Oceanfront Lawn at the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. Overlooking a bluff of dunes and the Atlantic Ocean, the event design blended island elegance with a touch of swashbuckling fun. Beneath a tent that evoked billowing sails and fluttering flags, guests sipped handcrafted cocktails, discovered gems of design, and danced the night away in sequins and pastels. From immersive décor to inspired entertainment, every detail glittered with Engage! magic.
A Treasure Trove of Color and Sparkle
The ‘Island Treasures’ concept paid homage to Amelia Island’s rich maritime history, where pirates took control in the 17th and 19th centuries. A bounty of color and glitz, the design channelled the romance of a glamorous tiki lounge infused with elevated coastal sophistication. Moreover, guests were welcomed into a space that felt both effortlessly relaxed and undeniably luxurious. A palette of pastels, metallic accents, and driftwood created a dreamy escape. Natural textures mingled with touches of gold and crystal—a nod to lost riches washed ashore. The twinkling glow of bamboo table lamps cast a warm light. Meanwhile, plush lounge areas invited intimate moments of conversation among the guests.
The sea breeze carried hints of salt and tropical florals, while overhead, billowing sail-like drapery and fluttering flags mimicked the movement of the tides. Lush, cascading arrangements of palms and orchids also added a sense of untamed beauty to the space. Our event partners, led by Creative Director, Nicki Korman, masterfully wove these elements together, ensuring that every detail felt intentional. As the night unfolded, the venue shimmered like a true hidden gem. It truly set the stage for an unforgettable evening of celebration and connection.
Engage!24 Amelia Island Welcome Party Cocktails
No ‘Island Treasures’ celebration would be complete without pirate-worthy libations and island-inspired flavors! The cocktail menu was a treasure map of tropical indulgence, with handcrafted drinks that also perfectly complemented the coastal setting. For example, guests sipped on Tiki Dreams, a golden-hued blend of Mount Gay rum with orange, pineapple and passion fruit. The Crystal Clear Waters cocktail brought a refreshing twist with milk-clarified Cruzan pineapple rum, pineapple juice, and coconut water, as smooth as the Caribbean Sea. Meanwhile, the Strawberry Paloma, a vibrant fusion of Reposado Rosa, grapefruit, strawberry, and lime, added a rosy shimmer to the night. Later in the evening, the Komos Tequila Bar was the place to be. Guests were invited to savor bold flavors and toast to new connections.
Sparkling Entertainment
The entertainment at the Engage!24 Amelia Island welcome party was as captivating as the destination itself. Every moment brimmed with energy and surprise. Beats blended seamlessly with the sound of the ocean, creating an immersive backdrop for guests to mingle and relax. As the night progressed, DJ sets kept the energy high. Models dressed as mermaids surrounded the DJ booth. It was a siren song that drew guests to the dance floor, as the party transitioned from elegant lounging to full-throttle celebration.
But it was the drone show that truly stole the spotlight. As the night sky darkened, guests gazed up in awe at a dazzling display of synchronized lights, creating patterns that twinkled like diamonds in the sky. Engage! founders Kathryn and Rebecca even showed their faces in lights! It was the perfect finale to an unforgettable evening, reminding everyone that sometimes, the most extraordinary moments come from the unexpected.
The Dress Code: Pastel Sparkles
The dress code for our Engage!24 Amelia Island welcome party was an invitation to shine, and Engage! attendees delivered in spectacular fashion! The night glittered with iridescent sequins, soft metallics, and dreamy pastel hues, each catching the light like a cache of gems. Flowing gowns in blush, silver, and seafoam shimmered in the ocean breeze, while embellished blazers and statement accessories added a modern, fashion-forward edge. From spangly headpieces to sequin purses, every detail contributed to the evening’s ethereal, high-seas-meets-high-glam aesthetic. Together, the guests became part of the décor—a living, breathing treasure trove of style. They were the true jewels of the night!
The Engage!24 Amelia Island welcome party left behind more than just dazzling memories—it set the stage for an unforgettable Engage! experience. The evening was a true celebration of connection, where new friendships were formed, old ones rekindled, and creative sparks ignited under the island sky. With days of inspiration, education, and spectacular events ahead, this was only the beginning of an adventure like no other.
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