"Oh the weather outside was frightful, but Aloft was so delightful…"
True story! It was grey, drizzly day outside, but South Bay and Peninsula Elites would never have known once they stepped into the brand spankin' new Aloft Hotel SFO, our host for A Very Yelpy Holiday Party. "Location, location, location," chanted Steph V. A huge fan of Aloft hotels, Steph was "stoked that the event was held there. The vibe is very modern with the art, color choice, and wide open lobby." Energy flowed and personalities mingled in a setting that combines urban-influenced design, accessible technology, and a social scene that's always abuzz.
As Elites and their +1's arrived and checked in, they were immediately greeted by Nine Lives Foundation, our beneficiary non-profit for the event. Nine Lives is a non-profit, no-kill cat welfare organization that works with the local community and rescue groups to reduce the over-population of homeless cats. They provide all necessary medical treatments for shelter cats and seeks loving, permanent homes for them. And because Aloft is a pet-friendly hotel, Nine Lives brought two adorable, 10-week old kittens for guests to enjoy (and cuddle!)… and entice someone to adopt.
Also on-board for this festive soiree was Roti Indian Bistro, serving a mini buffet of chicken tikka masala, naan, Basmati rice and vegetable pakoras. Sunny from Roti was kind enough to bring two rounds of food from the restaurant, located across 101 in Burlingame. "Great pakora," hollered Dorothy L, "I could not stop eating that stuff!" Like Santa with his bag of toys, Peter's Kettle Corn "never ceases to amaze Sheena T, with 8 different flavors of freshly popped goodies, including horchata, Saigon cinnamon sugar, chipotle lime and crème brûlée. Not to be outdone, The Ultimate Sin Cheesecake Company brought three varieties of holiday-themed minis, including "Eggstravagant!"egg nogg and chocolate.
To keep spirits bright, Aloft's Xyz bar staff mixed some holiday libations made with baller booze. First on the list, a Cherry Mojito comprised of Grey Goose Cherry Noir, which Yelpers couldn't get enough of. Also on the lineup was a Bombay Sappire gin cocktail made with rosemary and strawberry. "But, the real star of the bar scene were the beers provided courtesy of San Francisco's 21st Amendment. The Fireside Chat and Hop Crisis, were both fantastic," said beer connoisseur Bryce B.
Because this was a Very Yelpy holiday party, Farrah Javed brought her homemade henna, complete with tinsel-like sparkles. "It was my first time getting a henna tattoo and I was really nervous about getting one done but I'm so glad I did," sqealed Ly D with delight. "So cute and quaint! Thank you, Farrah, for my wonderful tattoo!" Last but certainly not least, Elites' new favorite photo booth, Snap Yourself! was there to capture the cheer in picture form. They provided a customized backdrop, allowed guests to control the shutter and had some rad Christmas *and* Hanukkah props! "We all had a rockin' time taking pics with the hats and props from SnapYourself. Way cool since you can snap away once you're ready, and do multiple takes if you don't like the result," bragged Denise L.
As with all good Elite events, this Very Holiday Party was over in just the (Saint) Nick of time. Before bidding aideu to Yelpers, Aloft was generous enough to raffle off a a one-night's stay to those who donated to Nine Lives Foundation and those cute kittiens. Almost $900 was collected from our cozy little crew, so Santa hats off to everyone who contributed to the cause!
A very merry thank you Aloft Hotel SFO, Roti Indian Bistro, Peter's Kettle Corn, The Ultimate Sin Cheesecake Company, 21st Amendment, Grey Goose Cherry Noir, Bombay Sapphire, Snap Yourself!, Farrah Javed and Nine Lives Foundation. They helped make this party a 5-star event!
Good tidings to you and all of your kin!
Abby S, South Bay-Peninsula Community Manager (with the Aloft SFO crew!)
