Is there anything more festive than getting ready for a party? | Event Photography in Raleigh, NC

I mean, really? Is there?

Capturing the fun and festivities of the Sir Walter Cabinet’s Gala in celebration of their 100 years of service reminded me that there is no higher calling than contributing to a sense of community, and these members showed me that through my lens.

When I photograph an event, there are details, as well as the atmosphere of the whole event, to capture. We might even go so far as to call it “the vibe” of the event. What vibe did this group give off? It was one of service, one of commitment, and one of integrity.

Allow me to explain.

The goal of the Sir Walter Cabinet is to contribute to the good of the State of North Carolina and its citizens, to stay informed on current issues and to continue friendships established through the years.

It was evident this was no ordinary group. How could I tell? It was the way they greeted one another and the way they introduced their spouses and their friends to one another.

It was the way they embraced a sense of community together for the good of their home and their state.

Most of all, it is the way this group supports one another. It is in the way everyone lends a helping hand.

It’s not surprising then that they are celebrating 100 years. Service to the state is no small feat and seeing this group together shows that it is no one person’s job. It is the work of many concerned and connected citizens.

President Sarah Woodard spoke of all these things in her speech. She asked all present to raise a glass, to toast the work of the members of the organization – all those who have come before and all those who will come forward in the future.

Following the clink of glasses touched together, the warm laughter ran like thread through fabric, pulling everyone together. As these sounds quieted, it was the piano and flute notes that could be heard. With Gibson Barmer playing music for the crowd this evening, the accompaniment was the perfect mix of music and magic in the air. The piano and flute duo of Elmer Gibson and Lori Barmer kept the crowd enchanted all night long.

And so, as this group enters its 101st year, we can see why this 100th gala – and these people, its members – are worth celebrating.

Let’s focus on the good. Let’s focus on what makes us thrive.

Aren’t we all better together?