For our final challenge “Things”, we chose to do three “Things” by designing three tables and participating in “Dining By Design” a benefit for DIFFA, Design Industries Foundation Fights AIDS. This event was started in Kansas City 20 years ago and now is held all over the nation. Proceeds from this event are kept in Kansas City and used for education for fighting AIDS.

One of our team members, Chuck Matney of Matney Floral Design has been associated with KC DIFFA since it was started in 1990. In addition to designing tables, Chuck and a team of six also raised an additional $200,000.00!

The first table we designed was for the Muriel I. Kauffman and The Muriel Mcbrien Kauffman Foundation, the largest sponsor of the event. The table theme was very formal to tribute Julia Irene Kauffman and her late mother Muriel Mcbrien Kauffman. All the table top china and crystal was donated by Halls. We had the table cloth and chair covers made to add to the overall theme.
The second table was themed very natural and gardeny, using orchids and succulents, natural linen table cloth and raffia for added detail. Our third table was designed by Kim Matthews and her new company Her Majesties Wine Closet. The table represented her companies wine bottle fashions and provided a colorful and fun dining experience. Flowers for all three tables were donated by Matney Floral Design.

The event was held over two nights at the Hyatt convention center. The first night was a “table hop”. For a nominal entrance fee guests could view the tables and enjoy food and beverages donated by local restaurants. Over 500 people attended! The actual dinner was held on Saturday night with over 40 tables designed by local business, groups, designers and schools. Attendance topped 600!