Celebrating Community, Raising Hope, and Fueling the Fight Against MS.
In June, The Crane Bay Event Center in downtown Indianapolis was transformed into a stunning celebration of hope, progress, and purpose as it once-again held the annual IN Cure for MS Gala. With its golden theme, thoughtfully curated culinary experience, and an atmosphere charged with energy and emotion, this was an evening that truly embodied the spirit of connection and community.
From the moment guests arrived, it was clear the night would be something special. Hosted by the nonprofit IN Cure for MS, the gala brought together hundreds of guests to raise funds and awareness for multiple sclerosis research and support—all while enjoying an elevated evening of elegance and entertainment.
A Sparkling Start: Cocktail Hour & Silent Auction
The evening began with a VIP cocktail hour, where guests were greeted by dazzling mirrorball dancers, butler-passed hors d’oeuvres and the buzz of excitement. Cocktail tables with gold and white marble linen filled the room, complemented by white calla lily floral centerpieces.
Four chef-crafted hors d’oeuvres made their rounds:
- Truffled Beef Tenderloin Crostini with Boursin and roasted bell pepper chutney
- Shrimp Shooters with horseradish cocktail sauce
- Bacon and Cheddar Stuffed Tater Tots topped with chive crema
- Whipped Herb Feta on Pita with pistachio and honey drizzle
While enjoying the small bites, guests sipped on a variety of wines, beer, and a specialty cocktail titled the “Glittering Gold Rush”—a visually dazzling drink garnished with gold luster dust and served in sleek stemless martini glasses. As drinks flowed and conversation sparked, guests perused the silent auction, presented by Qtego, featuring curated items and experiences to raise vital funds for the organization.
A Golden Glow: Décor & Design
Thanks to the creative eye of Detail + Design, the space radiated warmth and sophistication. Dinner tables were dressed in a stunning mix of gold-toned linens, including marble and cotier shimmer textures. Statement-making white and gold floral centerpieces completed each setting. Votives dotted the tables, creating a soft glow that paired beautifully with the custom lighting design by the Markey’s production team—featuring LED panels, perimeter uplighting, and stage washes to draw guests’ attention to the front of the room for the program to come.
A Culinary Showcase: Dinner Service
At dinner time, drapes opened to reveal the main dining space, and guests were called to their seats for the evening program. Dinner service began with a steakhouse-inspired salad pre-set at each place: a mix of greens, romaine, roasted corn, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, Gorgonzola, and fried onions, topped with chipotle lime avocado ranch and served with flatbread garnish.
For the entrée, Crystal’s culinary team served a duet plate featuring:
- Braised short rib with a merlot reduction
- Seared herb salmon with brown butter sherry cream
- Accompanied by roasted Yukon potatoes and a medley of green beans and carrots
Vegetarian and vegan guests were thoughtfully accommodated with a beautifully plated roasted acorn squash filled with quinoa, cranberries, garbanzo beans, pepitas, and marinated tofu, all tied together with a green goddess tahini dressing.
Each table was also pre-set with a bottle of red and white wine, and for dessert, guests enjoyed alternating plated bites of Heath Bar chocolate mousse cake and lemon blueberry cheesecake with limoncello glaze.
Program Highlights & A Powerful Mission
Following dinner, guests turned their attention to the evening’s formal program, which included a live auction, award presentation, and a compelling “Fund-a-Need” segment—reminding everyone why they were there: to help find a cure and support those living with multiple sclerosis.
The production team delivered a seamless experience, with dual projection screens, stage lighting, and an expertly managed AV setup that kept the focus on storytelling and impact.
Dancing the Night Away
With the final toast made and funds raised, the evening shifted into full celebration mode. As the lights dimmed, the high-energy Bruno Mars cover band, 24K Magic, took the stage. From the first song, the dance floor was packed. Guests celebrated in true style, surrounded by shimmering gold pillows, thoughtful lighting, and the electric joy of a cause worth rallying behind.
A Night to Remember
Crystal Signature Events was honored to be part of this impactful and beautifully executed evening. From culinary coordination to venue management, our team was proud to support the mission of IN Cure for MS and help bring their vision to life. Events like this one remind us of the power that lives at the intersection of design, hospitality, and heartfelt purpose—and we’re grateful to play a part in it.
If you're planning a nonprofit gala or fundraising event and want a trusted partner to bring it to life, we’d love to help. Our team brings decades of experience in producing seamless, mission-driven events that inspire generosity and create lasting impressions. Contact Crystal Signature Events today to start the conversation.
To learn more or support IN Cure for MS, visit incureofms.com.
Vendors
- Venue: The Crane Bay Event Center
- Catering: Crystal Signature Events
- Event Planner: Detail + Design
- Photographer: Sara Imagery
- Videographer: Bob Ridge with Indy Visual
- AV: Markey’s
- Linens: BBJ
- Band: 24k Magic
- Silent Auction: Qtego
- Artist: Deb Slack
- Dancers: Krescendo
A Golden Evening at the IN Cure for MS Gala
Related Topics: Charity & Fundraising Events, Events Ideas & Inspiration, Events