Recognizing that some businesses had to make tough choices at the end of the year, Kahlua established five bailout grants to be used toward hosting a canceled holiday party in 2008.
Coldwell Banker Residential in Colorado Springs, CO, received one of those grants because, despite the declining real estate market and their own personal struggles, the agents at this office maintained their dedication to local charities throughout the year:
- Susan G Komen Race for the Cure
- Habitat for Humanity
- Children's Hospital Toy Drive
- Held a golf tournament for low income families
- Contributed to rebuild Windsor, CO, after a tornado
Event planners at Coldwell Banker chose to hold the event at a private residence, and used the dollars for great catering and entertainment. The event decor reflected a festive holiday atmosphere, including a Christmas tree, holly and garland.
- Theme: Traditional Holiday Party
- City, State: Monument, CO
- Event Location: Personal residence
- Event Time: 1 pm until about 4 p.m.
- Total Guests: 65
- Event Organizer: Ashley Wilson, Relocation Sales Manager, Coldwell Banker Residential
The catered menu included a mix of a couple appetizers, two entree choices and two desserts. The menu included:
- Eggplant with meat and cheese tied together with chives
- Lox and cream cheese on a spicy cracker
- Shrimp cocktail
- Italian salad
- Chicken parmesan
- Italian sausage stuffed manicotti
- Cheesecake
- Tiramisu
Of course, this was a holiday party sponsored by Kahlua, so there were definitely options for guests. Drink options included the following:
- Kahlúa Cold-Royale (signature cocktail consisting of Kahlúa, Sandeman’s Port and Jouët Champagne)
- Brazilian Monk
- White Russian
- Margarita
- Bourbon
- Gin
- Scotch
Entertainment for the afternoon event included Santa Claus who delivered gifts while holiday music played in the background. The event gift: Kahlua gift bags containing coktail shakers, t-shirts and personalized bottles of Kahlua.
"Planning in advance is a great way to save money and ensure that you get exactly what you want. No matter what the budget, if something you want is already booked, you're forced to compromise and move on to plan B," Wilson explains.
