THE IRISH CONSULATE’S AER LINGUS-DUE WEST INITIATIVE LAUNCH

Regular INAM readers might know that I’ve attended many events pertaining to Ireland through the years. And that I’m a fan of all of them.

So when I got a very different but intriguing invitation that sounded like it involved special music and Aer Lingus, my co-writer on this one, Marc, and I changed our plans to be there. And we’re glad we did because we were treated to one of the most easygoing events we’ve ever attended.

It was hosted by The Consulate General of Ireland in Los Angeles. The occasion was to celebrate that the musical series, Due West, which is part of the Consulate’s transatlantic creative network which connects Irish arts and international creative industries, has been picked up by Aer Lingus, and is currently being featured on their transatlantic in-flight service.

The entire event was so interesting. It seemed to go by in a flash, as well; we felt we had just arrived when it was time to leave already!

Of course, my linear mind has to go in order because every step of the journey fascinated us.

The invitation stated that the location was the Irish Consulate in West Hollywood. It said to enter the lobby, and have the guards there direct us to the event space. So we stepped into a basic office building in mid-Wilshire, expecting just drabness inside. But what we got was…a stunning, very modern, giant, white area which looked like it would be hosting an upscale soiree in a movie! Let me tell you—Marc and I were glad that we had dressed-up even though the invitation didn’t say to.

Digression: Of course, as my own little tribute to Ireland, part of my outfit was a green top. And to augment it, also of course, my nails were green, as was my eye makeup—two eyeshadows, eyeliner, and even mascara! And my jewelry—a bunch of bracelets, earrings, and several rings—were all different shades of green. Only the Ireland Ambassador, Geraldine Byrne Nason, had more emerald on! I was very jealous of her gorgeous purse and shoes which I need for their next event!

The fete was in a conference room of sorts, a very spacious one, with couches and dining tables aplenty. And, as always with the Irish events we’ve been to, a lovely luncheon spread was served. Marc, my harshest food critic, took one look at the many attractive choices, and deemed it all to be “wonderful!” It was actually perfect for the event, as well.

The buffet was laid out in order from convenient canned and bottled waters down to the desserts of excellent chocolate chip cookies, mini chocolate muffins, and fresh strawberries. In-between were an assortment of savory goodies: open-faced sandwiches of a choice of salmon, ham, avocado, or vegetables; mini-baguette sandwiches of turkey and mozzarella, or vegetarian caprese ones; and crudités with various sauces. There’s nothing more we could have wanted. (Except another round of it all!!!)

After the perfect amount of time for eating and mingling, the program began. In addition to Geraldine Byrne Nason, there were greetings by Marcella Smyth, the Consul General of Ireland to Los Angeles; Aer Lingus’ Jim Bochneak; and Head of Cultural Affairs of the Western US, Síobhra Quinlan. Then we were treated to a live violin number by Emer Kinsella, who is featured in one of the Due West episodes. When she was done, Marc told her that her playing was so great that it seemed like the violin was attached to her like it was part of her body!  That’s quite the compliment.

All in all, it was yet another enjoyable and classy event from this organization; it featured delish food, beautiful live music, lovely people, hip and modern scenery, and was short, sweet, and to the point. It was another win for Ireland. And for us guests, as well!