CPA FELLOWS DINNER
Charlie & Sprocket (C&S) had the privilege of partnering with CPA Ontario to bring the prestigious CPA Fellows Dinner to life. This annual event recognizes and celebrates Chartered Professional Accountants (CPAs) who have made exceptional contributions to the profession and their communities. The dinner serves as a platform to honor the newly designated Fellows (FCPAs) and renew pride within the CPA community.
OBJECTIVES & AUDIENCE:
The primary objective of the CPA Fellows Dinner was to celebrate the accomplishments of the 34 distinguished Fellows and create an unforgettable evening for attendees. The event aimed to showcase the significance of the award and inspire other CPAs to make a positive impact. The audience consisted of the Fellows’ family members, friends, nominators, past Fellows recipients, and members of the CPA community.
EVENT VISION & EXECUTION:
As the first in-person event post-COVID, the CPA Fellows Dinner held great significance. C&S worked closely with CPA Ontario to bring the incredible vision to life. The team took charge of production, design, decor, talent management, and entertainment aspects of the event. The Park Hyatt Hotel in Toronto provided a beautiful setting for the evening, creating a VIP atmosphere to honor the esteemed Fellows.
COCKTAIL RECEPTION & AMBIANCE:
The event commenced with a captivating cocktail reception. C&S curated a unique experience, incorporating custom-made outfits for greeters and custom-made pillars showcasing hand-drawn portraits of the award winners. The Canadian crooner Steven Taetz Jazz Band provided live entertainment, adding a delightful musical touch. A fashion illustrator was present to create custom gala portraits, and a bespoke gallery wall of award winners enhanced the ambiance.
AWARDS DINNER & CEREMONY:
Former CBC news anchor and distinguished Fellow, Peter Mansbridge, hosted the awards dinner and guided guests through the ceremony. The evening began with a special land acknowledgment performed through dance and hoop by Indigenous cultural activist, Theland Kicknoswa. Pianist sensation Thompson Egbo-Egbo, known for his illustrious career and performances for esteemed dignitaries, produced a medley tribute to the inductees, featuring renowned artists like Leonard Cohen, Gordon Lightfoot, Oscar Peterson, and Joni Mitchell. The all-female string quartet Bowed Arts entertained the audience with their contemporary and energetic take on classical strings.
IMPACT & INSPIRATION:
The CPA Fellows Dinner left a lasting impact on the attendees and the broader CPA community. The event showcased the outstanding achievements of the Fellows and renewed pride within the profession. The captivating performances, unique ambiance, and the prestigious setting created a memorable experience. By sharing the event on social media and national publications, CPA Ontario aimed to have the award winners become ambassadors and advocates for the CPA, inspiring others to contribute to the profession.
LESSONS LEARNED & FUTURE RECOMMENDATIONS:
Through their collaboration with CPA Ontario, C&S gained valuable insights and recommendations for future events. This includes leveraging personalized and interactive elements to enhance attendee engagement, incorporating diverse and inclusive performances that reflect the values of the profession, and expanding digital marketing strategies to maximize reach and impact. C&S continues to evolve and deliver exceptional event experiences, leveraging their expertise in production, design, and talent management.
The CPA Fellows Dinner, meticulously planned and executed by C&S, succeeded in honoring the distinguished Fellows and creating an evening of celebration, inspiration, and pride. The event’s impact extended beyond the attendees, fostering a sense of unity and dedication within the CPA community. C&S’s commitment to excellence and attention to detail ensured a seamless and memorable experience for all involved.
