C3 Events designed and produced an iconic event for the Emirates Gala, celebrating the luxury airline’s newest destination from Dubai. An elegant and sophisticated experience wowed the 400 esteemed invited VIP guests.
Montreal’s historical Marché Bonsecours was meticulously transformed with a stunning projection space designed to showcase all aspects of the Emirates brand. The building’s façade was highlighted with strategic red lighting, custom branding, and a 30ft long red carpet. The iconic Marché Dome glowed red for the first time and was a beacon in the sky, demonstrating this event’s significance.
Guests were welcomed by a thoughtfully curated entrance experience that included personalized check-in, luxurious VIP hot towels, and an array of stunning floral arrangements.
The cocktail room, with impressive views of the historic Old Port, was tastefully decorated with red accents and featured majestic floral arrangements by Charlotte Lefebvre. Champagne was flowing. Guests were offered Dom Pérignon and custom mixology. Immersive visuals highlighting both Dubai and Montreal cityscapes added to the impressive decor. As a further touch of Middle Eastern culture, Dates and Arabic coffee were served by uniformed cabin crew.
The main room was revealed and featured a fully bespoke stage design, with a custom-made proscenium and brushed gold Emirates logo. Ivory tables were dressed with impressive flower centrepieces and featured custom Emirates cutlery flown in from Dubai. Twelve LED surfaces were seamlessly integrated into the Marché’s windows, enhancing the immersive experience.
After a welcome by Julie Dupage and Salem Obaidalla, Montreal’s premium catering team at Beatrice, guests were treated to a four-course culinary experience. Branded content and custom videos added to the multi-sensory experience.
The guests were thoroughly engaged throughout the night, thanks to entertainment provided by Ahmed Al Mousawi, a talented young Emirati pianist, a captivating performance by comedy legend Russel Peters, and a surprise high-energy musical set by multi-Grammy winner Nile Rodgers and Chic.
The Montreal Emirates Gala successfully harmonized the cultures of Montreal and Dubai, thanks to the exceptional collaboration of the production and supplier teams and a highly supportive client.
Acknowledgements are extended to Total Events for custom builds and overall design, alongside various partners for rentals, catering, bar service, valet, and entertainment, ensuring every detail was meticulously executed.
Photographers Christina Esteban and JP Rossi captured the evening’s grandeur and attention to detail, preserving the vibrancy and unforgettable moments of the Emirates Gala in Montreal.
Partners on this project:
Lead Producer: Adam Bultz
Senior Producers: Florianne Szopinski
Technical Design, Production & Custom Decor: Lorne Levitt at Total Events
Lighting Design: Rob Lynch
Associate Producers: Lisa Sew, Majorie Beaulac, Alessia Hart-Lewis, Selby Pesci
Custom Builds, Technical, Overall Design: Jen Miller, Andrew Jarvo, and Adam Zemel at Total Events
Venue: Marché Bonsecours
Floral: Charlotte Lefebvre
Rentals: Celebrations, Luxe Rentals, CF Rentals, Tenue de soirée, Joe’s Prop House, Groupe ABP
Catering: Beatrice
Bar Service: Brahm Mauer Bar Service and Lawrence Picard
Valet: VIP Valet
Entertainment: Eric the Tutor, M’michèle, Nile Rodgers and Chic, Russel Peters
Photo: Christina Esteban Photography, Cat Around Film, JP Rossi
