40th Anniversary Party

Illusions of Grandeur celebrated 40 years in business with a party at the Monterey County Fair and Event Center on May 11. It’s almost impossible to think that our very first event took place on May 17, 1985 at The Beach and Tennis Club. The theme of this year’s event (yes, we still like to frame things in themes) was “looking back and moving forward” which centered around the history of the company. Of course, being Illusions, we hosted a celebration of life for the event industry. Notably, our founder, Kristin Markus, announced her retirement while passing on the baton (naturally a “circus baton”) to Alison Baguio, who will take over the ownership of the company.

Monterey Room

Starting in the Monterey Room, Illusions hosted a fun happy hour providing our guests with the opportunity to mingle while learning more about our four decades in business. Featuring photos and stories from the past, each ten year period highlighted the parties most often requested during that era. And, in homage to our connection with the Hispanic community, the center of the room featured a Fiesta with bars pouring nitro Margaritas as well as champagne, beer and wine.

Salinas Room

After enjoying a trip down memory lane, circus performers (on stilts!) led us to the Salinas Room to remind us that “Life is but a dream”…an illuminated room complete with a dessert carousel, interactive booths with tarot readers and a dream analyst. Guests were also entertained by a strolling “mentalist”. Decor featured circus drum tables, illuminated cocktail tables, and a special candy wall.

Entertainment Highlights

Our special thanks to John Kelly of Kelly Productions who provided great entertainment that included: The International Trio and Ethereal Duo kicking off the party in the Monterey Room; Samba Conmigo Stilt Walkers; Shinsho-Mugen Daiko Drummers, Jay Alexander, the “mentalist and amazing magician”; Lucidia the Dream Analyst and Solarzar, the tarot reader. All of this was set to the lively beats of Andrei Karabetyan who served as the DJ for the party.