The inaugural AquaGala, hosted by the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) on March 9, 2024, was an evening of elegance and culinary excellence in support of marine life conservation. As the caterer for this event, we were honored to contribute to the unforgettable experience.
Guests enjoyed a chef-curated dining extravaganza with a diverse range of exquisite menu options, highlighted below. Proceeds from the evening directly benefited CMA’s core mission: the care of resident and rehabilitating marine animals.
CMA’s vital role in responding to mammal and sea turtle strandings underscored the importance of the fundraiser. Generous support ensured CMA could continue its crucial work, making investments in marine life education, research, rescue, rehabilitation, and release.
In supporting AquaGala, sponsors and donors contributed to the ongoing protection and conservation of marine ecosystems. Their generosity helped secure CMA’s position as a leading institution dedicated to the well-being of marine life.
![Aqua gala 2024 step and repeat](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-00019--683x1024.jpg)
![Clear event decor and seats](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-04639-769x1024.jpg)
![blue upscale event decor](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-04662-1024x683.jpg)
![Branded Ice](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-04816-769x1024.jpg)
![Imagery Pinot Noir 2021](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-04820--1024x769.jpg)
![Sliced Beef Medallion](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-00180-1024x683.jpg)
![Lobster Three Ways](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-00352--1024x683.jpg)
![Fresh family-style salad](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-04764--1024x769.jpg)
![Event at The Clearwater Aquarium](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-00095--1024x683.jpg)
![Seated event at The Clearwater Aquarium](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-00322--1024x683.jpg)
![blue plate ware and table decor](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-09982-1024x683.jpg)
![Crispy tortilla chips](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-00031-683x1024.jpg)
![Beautiful jellyfish event decor](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-04699--1024x769.jpg)
![Garden Salad with Farro & Quinoa](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-00233-683x1024.jpg)
![Chicken shawarma-style](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-04979--769x1024.jpg)
![event passed appetizer](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-00295--1024x683.jpg)
![Skewer passed appetizer](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-00254--1024x683.jpg)
![Delicious event appetizer](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-00188--1024x683.jpg)
![Plated dessert on table](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-04795-769x1024.jpg)
![Animal guests at aqua gala](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-00062--1024x683.jpg)
![Animal guest at gala](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/1-04872-1024x769.jpg)
2024 AquaGala Event Menu
Plated Salad
Chef’s Garden
- Farro & Quinoa “Soil,” Red Oak, Roasted Heirloom Carrot, Spring Beet, Haricot Vert, Roasted Shallot Vinaigrette
Plated Entrées
Surf & Turf
- Beef Medallion, Butter Poached Lobster, Trumpet Mushrooms, Parsnip Potato Puree, Béarnaise
Roasted Beet & Portobello
- Potato Parsnip Puree, White Asparagus, Red Pepper Emulsion
Signature Cocktails
OceanBlue
- Ocean Organic Vodka, Passionfruit Juice, Lemonade
Azul del Fin
- Kula Toasted Coconut Rum, Piña Colada Mix, Amaretto
Espresso Martini
- Ocean Organic Espresso Martini Vodka
Vendors
- Event Planner: Ashleigh Poff, Rich Beyond Wealth
- Décor: YES Event Design
- Menu Design/Graphics: Proof of the Pudding
- Food & Beverage: Proof of the Pudding
- Photographer: Amber Yonker Photography
![](https://www.proofpudding.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Dina-Iglesias.jpg)