More than 6,000 guests arrived for Le Dîner en Blanc – Philadelphia* at the iconic Boathouse Row on Thursday, August 22, 2019. This year boasted the eighth edition in the City of Brotherly Love and THE largest Dîner en Blanc gathering in the country. Guests had the opportunity to explore one of the city’s most iconic landmarks while mingling among fellow diners.
Home to twelve rowing clubs, “Boathouse Row” is maintained by the individual clubs. Together, these clubs are members of the Schuykill Navy of Philadelphia. The Schuykill Navy’s newest member, Philadelphia City Rowing (PCR), serves as the team for the Philadelphia School District. Free to every student in the city’s public and charter schools, PCR’s year-long programs provide an avenue for those who might not be part of a collegiate rowing program.
“The number eight plays a significant role in competitive rowing. The ‘rowing eight’ is the largest of the boats and takes eight rowers, working in unison,” said Le Dîner en Blanc – Philadelphia co-host Natanya DiBona. “So, it was fitting to pick Boathouse Row for our eighth location, particularly because the event relies on the hard work of everyone. It takes all the planning team members, volunteers and all 6,000 participants to make Le Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia a success.”
The “Most Elegant Table” judges included Jeff Guarcaino, President of Visit Philly; Alicia Vitarelli, 6abc news personality; and Christina Henck, owner of Henck Designs. Judges for “Most Elegant Women” were Syrmarie Villalobos; Telemundo62 Primera Edición Anchor, Mary Dougherty, Owner Nicole Miller Philadelphia; and Influencer Davida Janae of Vida Fashionista. Last but not least, there were the judges for “Most Elegant Men.” They were Miguel Martinez-Valle, NBC10 and Telemundo 62 news personality; Mike and Alex, Philadelphia lifestyle bloggers; and Sabir Peele, stylist and founder of Men’s Style Pro.
As always, there was no shortage of entertainment! Attendees were delighted and danced among this year’s variety of showstoppers. Performers included Originaire, Melissa Dunphy, Etta’s Baby Boy – Project Philly and Justin The Magician. Throughout the evening, they were followed by the Dewdrop Society Band, DJ Mar, Great on Skates, and DJ Sean Smoove. Guests also kept an eye out for The Event Poet, Rev Michael Alan Portraits, Dandy Wellington & Gin Minsky and, an event favorite, Mad Beatz.
Artists Dora Cuenca, Weston Welch and Andy Greenleere painted oars throughout the outdoor space. These are planned to be auctioned to benefit Broad Street Ministry (BSM). This was the second year Le Dîner en Blanc Philadelphia is supporting BSM. The official after party took place back in Center City at Sofitel, a national partner of the 2019 US series of Le Dîner en Blanc.
For all the info on Le Dîner en Blanc – Philadelphia, visit the website, Facebook: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Use the tags #debphl19 #dinerenblanc to stay connected.
* Le Dîner en Blanc – Philadelphia is a client of Philly PR Girl.
