By RASHAD ROLLE

Tribune News Editor

rrolle@tribunemedia.net

HANDS for Hunger’s annual fundraiser, Paradise Plates, blossomed into a memorable evening of culinary excellence and vibrant entertainment on Saturday night, enhanced by a Bridgerton theme that infused the event with lush decor.

Over 1,300 tickets were sold for this year’s event, held at Atlantis, raising essential funds for the organisation’s food assistance programmes throughout New Providence.

Soothing jazz melodies welcomed guests at an entrance promenade, where the lush surroundings set the tone for the evening. Inside, a Hands for Hunger gallery stood near pianist Dion Cunningham, providing a sophisticated backdrop as attendees learned about the organisation’s efforts to help over 5,000 families through its pantry programmes and support for 15 public schools. A photo opportunity with an extra flair backdrop captured memorable moments for many.

Art enthusiasts were delighted by a curated pop-up exhibit organised by John Cox, where pieces were available for sale, with part of the proceeds benefitting Hands for Hunger.

Through the Portrait Studio by Tanya Simone and Green Carpet Instagrammable Moments, guests found many opportunities to snap photos amidst a plush setting.

An outdoor Bubble Bar became a lively gathering spot, featuring creative cocktails crafted by Pour Advice, showcasing 818 & Komos Tequilas.

A Jazz & Cigar Lounge on the outdoor patio offered an inviting space for attendees to enjoy live music from the Essence Band and Soundwaves, along with fine cigars from Johnnie Walker and Graycliff Cigars.

The ballroom was the heart of Paradise Plates, featuring over 50 participating restaurants and beverage companies. Guests indulged in an attractive array of culinary creations from local favourites, all presented within the opulent atmosphere. The evening’s entertainment lineup kept spirits high, with DJs Chris, Clean Cut, and IGNITE spinning tunes, while live painting by Stefan Legend provided an artistic highlight with the piece auctioned off to support Hands for Hunger.

After getting their bellies full, guests ventured to the dance floor, gyrating to classic reggae, soca and hip-hop tunes.

Participants included new and familiar companies. Justin Higgs, a senior sales and marketing manager at Bahamas Wholesale Agencies Ltd, expressed enthusiasm for participating for the first time.

“It means a lot because we’re venturing into the liquor space,” he said. “This was a great opportunity for us to showcase our flagship product, White Claw Hard Seltzer, which is the number one hard seltzer in the United States. We want Bahamians to become more familiar with it.”

"We also value supporting trust-worthy non-profit organizations such as Hands for Hunger due to the incredible impact they have on the community. Therefore being able to promote our brand and support them all in one night is truly a blessing."

Representing the Cleo restaurant at SLS Baha Mar, a chef offered Mediterranean cuisine and remarked: “This is top tier. To advertise in such a large capacity is amazing.”

The silent auction was another event highlight, allowing guests to bid on exclusive items via QR codes in the foyer. All proceeds from the auction contributed directly to Hands for Hunger.

Executive director Keisha Ellis reflected on the tremendous support received.

“We are pleased that so many people and businesses came out to support our event and help us raise much-needed funds to continue our operations for another year,” she said.

This year’s event was particularly significant given the ongoing challenges faced by Hands for Hunger, including rising food and utility costs.

Ms Ellis said as more families seek assistance, the organisation remains committed to expanding its reach to more Family Islands and deepening its impact within New Providence. She added that a goal includes supporting local farmers and tackling the root causes of food insecurity.

Scotiabank was the presenting sponsor. CG Atlantik was a gastronome sponsor. JS Johnson, Colina and Coca Cola were gourmand sponsors.

Participants included Anthony’s Seafood & Ribs, Aquapure, Bahamas Botanical, Ben & Jerry’s, Bristol Wines & Spirits, Cafe Madeline, Cafe Matisse, Carna, Chef Manny, Chop Stix, Cleo Mediterraneo, Coca-Cola, Commonwealth Brewery, Drifters, Filia, Fish by José Andrés, Front of the House, Graycliff, High Rock Lager, Jimmy’s Wines & Spirits, John Watlings Distillery, Katsuya, Le Petit Gourmet, Liquid Courage, Manuelo’s Marcus at Baha Mar, Margaritaville Beach Resort, Pasta & Nibbles, Mexicaba, Mi & Bs Deli & Bistro, Nobu, Oku Sushi Bar, Paranza, Pin Drop Rum, Pink Octopus, Pink Sand Spirits Co, Pirate Republic, Pour Advice, Rosewood, Stash, Seafire Steakhouse, Shuang Ba, SLS Baha Mar, The New Duff, Tipsy Scoop, Tropical Gyros, West Hill by Best Brew, White Claw Hard Seltzer and Young’s Fine Wine.