De tio viktigaste frågorna (och svaren!) om årets Evening with Emily's Entourage Gala

In case you haven’t noticed, we’re pretty excited that there are only 5 days separating us from our annual Evening with Emily’s Entourage Gala! We know that many of you have questions about what the evening will entail—so we asked some of our favorite EE personalities questions about how to prep beforehand and most importantly, what we shouldn’t miss on the night of the gala!

Q: I’ve heard the Evening for Emily’s Entourage Gala isn’t for ME, it’s for people my parent’s age.

A: “No way! The Gala is for DU, your friends, your parents, your parents friends, your friends parents…well, you get the picture! The event is specifically designed to include elements that appeal to adults of ages and interests, and it is a rewarding, interactive evening for everyone involved. In fact, a centerpiece of the evening is a celebration of our Emily’s Entourage Champions, young leaders who are recognized for their philanthropic spirit.” – Jessica Lazarus, EE Board Member, Gala Committee Member

Q: So I’m going to the Gala, but do I need a runway ball gown to fit in with the black tie dress code?

A: “Absolutely not! The best way to describe our dress code is “cocktail chic” although you’ll see attendees dressed in a wide range of attire. Our goal is for everyone to feel comfortable and inspired, no black tie attire or designer dresses required!” – Leslie Sullivan, EE Gala Coordinator

Q: I don’t have a date or friend to bring to the gala, should I still go?

A: “Of course! While we welcome your friends, significant others, family members, coworkers and neighbors, there are plenty of opportunities to meet friendly members of the EE community and connect with someone new. There are no assigned seats or forced interactions, so you are free to mingle and network with anyone you naturally gravitate towards. It’s a particularly welcoming and friendly crowd.” – Danielle Selber, EE Social Media Chair, Gala Committee Member

Q: I’ve seen the emails and social media reminders, but I was hoping to just buy my ticket at the door. Can I do that?

A:  “Sounds too risky to chance it! In past years, the gala has sold out in advance and attendance has reached maximum capacity. To ensure you are able to attend, please purchase your tickets or sponsorship in advance här via our website. In the off-chance that you can’t purchase a ticket in advance, tickets will be sold on the night of as space permits.”                       – Marcia DeSalvo, EE Marketing and Project Coordinator

Q: Is the Gala an open house event, or is there a program of events? If so, what is the best time to arrive?

A: “To make sure you have the pleasure of enjoying all the parts of the gala, we encourage you to arrive promptly at 7pm, as we try our best to stick to a clear timeline. We wouldn’t want you to miss a chance to bid on awesome auction items, taste some special treats, or participate in our interactive elements (think social media station, dedication wall, wine pull and more!) before the speaking program begins. Please note: of course we understand if circumstances necessitate you arriving late or leaving early, and we still hope to see you there!” – Leslie Sullivan, EE Gala Coordinator

Q: Will there be food and drinks served?

A: “Absolutely! We don’t do a sit down dinner (we’re too hip and unconventional for that!), but you can count on delicious hor d’oeuvres and dinner catered by Brulee and of course refreshing drinks and cocktails to keep things lively. We also have a reputation for serving up a robust dessert spread and we promise this year won’t disappoint—so bring your sweet tooth!”     – Jessica Lazarus, EE Board Member, Gala Committee Member

Q: I went to last year’s Gala, what will be different this year?

A: “Where do I start? Each year we select a new, unique theme that sets the tone for every gala element, including design, cuisine, and programming. Although there are certain things you can depend on (Delicious food! Show-stopping decor! A moving and heartfelt program!), we work hard to plan features to surprise and delight. I’ll give you a little sneak peek: Coby Kramer-Golinkoff is this year’s emcee, Vertex Pharmaceuticals will be named the inaugural Trailblazer Award recipient, oh and a small little shop called Anthropologie (!!!) is hooking us up in the decor department… That’s just the tip of the iceberg. We’ve got plenty more surprises up our sleeve. Trust me… You want to be there.” – Marcia DeSalvo, EE Marketing and Project Coordinator

Q: These kinds of events are usually super expensive. How expensive are tickets?

A: "One general admission ticket is $175, and a ticket for someone age 35 and under is $125. This is actually lower than most other galas in our area! We do this intentionally to make it accessible and welcome to all different people. There are also sponsorship packages available at various donation levels that include tickets and other benefits. You can check out all the info here: emilysentourage.org/phillygala. Additionally, we have  a wide range of volunteer opportunities! Contact us at events@emilysentourage.org if you are interested in becoming a volunteer!” – Leslie Sullivan, EE Gala Coordinator

Q: I can’t make this year’s event and I’m so bummed. How can I still be apart of this special night?

A: “Bummer! We will miss you. But the good news is this year, we are once again pleased to offer a unique web platform that allows for users to bid on items from ANYWHERE. The auction is now open can be accessed from your computer or mobile device. All you need is your credit card, laptop, tablet or cell phone, and some fast fingers!  Of course, you can also watch the event livestream on our Facebook page, and of course, donate to support the cause! – Marcia DeSalvo, EE Marketing and Project Coordinator

Q: Parking at these types of events is so expensive and it’s always impossible to find a spot. Any tips?

A: "You’re in luck! Free valet parking is provided so you have nothing to worry about in the parking department! When you arrive, there will be signage to guide you and make the parking process seamless. The venue is handicap accessible, but feel free to contact us if you have additional questions about access.” – Danielle Selber, EE Social Media Chair, Gala Committee Member

Considering having some drinks or not in the mood to drive? Safety is a top priority, so we’re thrilled that Lyft is offering a 25% discount for rides to or from the event! Just use the code ‘EE2017’ between 2:00pm and 11:59pm on December 2nd.

Have a question that isn’t answered here? We would love to hear from you! Contact us at events@emilysentourage.org. Still need a ticket? Visit emilysentourage.org/philly gala