Some events just have that electric energy—a pulse that carries the evening from one unforgettable moment to the next. Big City Night benefiting Aspire Chicago was exactly that. Hosted once again at the ever-versatile Morgan MFG, the night embraced a rock-and-roll theme that paid tribute to music legends while celebrating an even greater cause: inclusivity for people with disabilities.
As guests arrived, they were met with the vibrant energy of the evening, set in motion by an incredible Rock and Roll playlist (a genre I found myself adding enthusiastically to my personal spotify playlists for weeks on end) and complemented by stunning rock-inspired floral arrangements from Polly’s Petals. The venue had transformed into an edgy, music-lover’s dream—electric guitars, bold colors, and just the right touch of nostalgia.
While attendees sipped espresso martinis (courtesy of Aspire’s social enterprise Aspire CoffeeWorks) and noshed on delicious hors d’oeuvres courtesy of Paramount Events, the silent auction was already heating up. The real action kicked off when the evening’s program began, led by Raising Paddles’ dynamic auctioneer, Scott Jones. With each bid, every paddle raise, and every generous donation, the room felt more and more alive with Aspire’s mission: fostering a more inclusive world for people of all abilities.
In addition to the Live Auction and Paddle Raise, the program included videos highlighting different aspects of Aspire’s mission, award presentations, and meaningful remarks by Aspires CEO who shared heartfelt words that resonated with every guest in the room (all expertly relayed by the stellar sign language interpreer, Patti Shore Kaden). But perhaps the most unexpected delight was yet to come when, after the final words by the event chair, an unmistakable voice filled the room—Elvis had entered the building! Mystique’s spot-on Elvis impersonator brought the house down, starting with a raucous rendition of “Hound Dog” and ending with guests swaying their phone flashlights to “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” It was a showstopping finale to an already incredible night.
As the energy carried over into the after-party, DJ Sasha Savic kept the dance floor packed while guests enjoyed sweet treats from Paramount and coffee from Aspire CoffeeWorks. With another Big City Night in the books, the impact of the evening was undeniable—not just in funds raised, but in the connections made and the community strengthened.
Once again, Aspire and Five Grain Events pulled off a night to remember, proving that when good people come together for a great cause, the results truly rock.