RIMS 2015 in New Orleans kicked off with an opening reception at Mardi Gras World, located along the Mississippi River. Hundreds of attendees from around the world gathered together to network over good food and rocking entertainment in an atmosphere truly unique to the Crescent City.
Mardi Gras World is a large warehouse where Mardi Gras Parade floats are stored and constructed throughout the year. Attendees walked through the warehouse and saw the floats up close, gazing in awe at their intricate designs and bright colors.
The reception was held outside — or was it? Attendees were led into a room that emulated a charming outdoor area, complete with a sky full of stars and a brisk night chill. There they were able to treat themselves to cocktails and hor d'oeuvres as they networked with other attendees.
The main room of the reception featured entertainment from Rockin' Dopsie Jr. & The Zydeco Twisters, who had the crowd of RIMS attendees on their feet and dancing with their renditions of some classic tunes. Rockin' Dopsie even brought RIMS attendees on stage to show off their dance moves and singing skills, to the delight of the crowd.
Click through to see exclusive pictures from the RIMS 2015 opening reception, and make sure to tell us your favorite part of the reception in the comments below!
Attendees walk towards Mardi Gras World for the RIMS 2015 opening reception.
Attendees had the opportunity to walk through the warehouse where hundreds of Mardi Gras parade floats are built and stored.
Breath-taking floats welcomed attendees to the reception as they passed through the massive warehouse towards the party.
Upon entering the reception, attendees were offered the opportunity to take a glimpse into their futures with a reading from a fortune teller. We think she's getting a vision!
Once inside, the networking began. Attendees met up with old friends and made plenty of new ones while enjoying bites of New Orleans cuisine.
Crawfish beignets or mini muffalettas? Decisions, decisions.
What will it be? How about a Pimm's cup?
Shrimp and grits, anyone?
Outside attendees enjoyed a scenic view of the Mississippi River. Our guess is many attendees from the northern U.S. states went outside to enjoy the warm air.
Artists from New Orleans non-profit arts orginization Young Aspirations/Young Artists (YA/YA) were working on two special RIMS 2015 edition painted chairs at the outdoor portion of the reception.
Back inside Rockin' Dopsie Jr. & The Zydeco Twisters entertained the crowd, bringing attendees up on stage to show off their dance moves and sing along to some classic tunes.
What was your favorite part of the RIMS 2015 opening reception? Let us know in the comments below!
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