The Deal: The Young Affiliates of the Mint held the Annual Black and White Gala at the Mint Museum Uptown on Friday. Nov. 12. The cause: Project Ten Ten Ten, an initiative to bring 10 works by 10 of the world’s most innovative craft artist’s to the Mint.

The Good: The evening’s inspiration was Truman Capote’s 1966 Masquerade Ball. The inspiration turned into reality at the Black and White Gala. The atmosphere was alive with a diverse crowd of young and older attendees, which made for a fun and vibrant evening. The evening started off with a downstairs reception including a silent auction with great gifts including artwork, gift certificates to fitness classes and specialty stores — there was just about something for everyone. A beautifully arranged dessert table was on display with a handcrafted black and white cake and decorative cupcakes (including vegan and gluten free ones too!). An open bar kept guests mingling downstairs until the party moved up to the fifth floor of the museum. Swanky lighting, beautiful flower bouquets and familiar tunes, from a local band, filled the air. A variety of extremely appetizing heavy hors d’oeuvres were served buffet style while guests gathered around tables to chat. Others chose to dance the night away on the floor or catch some fresh air and exquisite views on the large out door balcony.

The Bad: Location: perfect. Food: delicious. Guests: fun. What more do you need?

The Verdict: This is a must-attend annual event in Charlotte! While it’s a great way to promote the arts, it’s also one of the few, true class-act events held in the Queen City.