Father/Daughter Date Night: Festive crowd fills banquet ballroom

By Janice M. Howard / Style Editor for the Southern Standard

Party glitz and glitter transformed the spacious Civic Center auditorium into a festive banquet ballroom Feb. 15 for the seventh annual Father/Daughter Date Night. Anticipation mounted for the younger generation as they arrived on the scene for their first experience at the popular social gala. Others returning after attending previous Date Night parties knew what to expect and were ready for a good time!

“This is our first time to attend and we’re having a blast,” said Anthony Russell, who was accompanied by his 9-year-old daughter, Savanna.

Ushering in the Valentine season, Father/Daughter Date Night provided an opportunity for dads and daughters to enjoy a memorable night for themselves – no moms or brothers allowed! There were no age limits, and if a girl’s father was unable to attend, a substitute father figure was welcome to intercede as an escort.

It promised to be a night to remember as the gentlemen and their sweethearts, dressed in Sunday best, pinned on boutonnieres and corsages to be professionally photographed at the onset of the evening. Ticket-holders entered through a lighted archway entwined with ivy. Outer walls draped in black placed the focus on activities taking place on the central floor.

Magical floral gossamer was draped from the center to the outer corners of the ballroom. A lattice trellis accented with huge red roses and balloons served as a backdrop at the photo site. Fire torches and two towering tuxedo men with cane and top hat were placed near the stage where a lighted, heart-shaped ice sculpture also commanded attention.

Round banquet tables draped in red linen were decorated with heart-shaped balloons in metallic foil centerpieces.

After evidence of the meal was whisked away, popular music provided by The Sound Machine disc jockey filled the room for a dance session. Also included in the Valentine package was an array of great door prizes and after-dinner hors d’oeuvres.

The sold-out gala was sponsored by Standard Publishing Company, Grand Rental Station, First National Bank, All-O-K’sions Flowers and Gifts, and McMinnville Parks and Recreation.