The Historic New Orleans Collection established the “New Orleans Antiques Forum” (NOAF) in 2008 after Hurricane Katrina in an effort to encourage cultural tourism in New Orleans and southern Louisiana. The theme for this year’s event was “Opulence & Intrigue: Exoticism in the 19th Century,” which addressed the fascination with ancient style reflected in local Carnival designs, jewelry, Middle East-and Far East-inspired architecture, Chinese art and much more. The event drew over 200 attendees representing 14 areas, including Washington, D.C., Canada and Brazil.
The evening’s festivities began with a cocktail reception in the elegant Iberville Salon at the Hotel Monteleone, followed by a seated dinner at 7:30 p.m. in the adjoining salon. Throughout both rooms, tables were set with white linens and adorned with Moroccan lanterns and votives. The Hotel Monteleone provided a selection of passed hors d’oeuvres for the cocktail hour and produced an extravagant culinary tour of the Near, Middle and Far East for dinner. Dessert came in the form of a crown of dark chocolate with white chocolate pistachio Bavarois, sugared jewels and golden nuggets. Heartstrings, a local trio, provided classical music throughout the cocktail hour.
Just before dinner was served, the president of THNOC’s board of directors, Fred Smith, recognized all members of the event’s honorary advisory committee and the event’s sponsors. All proceeds benefitted the Historic New Orleans Collection. Founded in 1966, THNOC is a museum, research center and publisher dedicated to the study and preservation of the history and culture of New Orleans and the Gulf South region.
Event at a Glance
What: “New Orleans Antiques Forum Speaker/Sponsor Dinner,” benefiting The Historic New Orleans Collection
When: Saturday, August 3
Where: The Iberville Salon at the Hotel Monteleone
