A $1M Night of Tropical Glamour, Community & Impact
The Underline Sneaker Ball at Land Rover Coral Gables by The Collection was nothing short of extraordinary. With over $1 million raised to support The Underline’s programs, operations, and maintenance, this high-energy, tropical-glam fundraiser proved that luxury, community, and purpose can beautifully coexist.
Pink Wasabi was honored to design the event’s tablescapes, tall tropical arrangements, and custom neon signage for 460 guests, while our sister company PINK. Marketing & Activations created two immersive brand moments: a customized Tropical Champagne Wall activation and the Jungle Queen Tropical Wall with custom neon signage for the entry photo-op.
Tropical Glam Meets Sneaker Chic
The evening began outdoors along The Underline, where over 425 guests gathered from 6–7 PM before transitioning into Land Rover Coral Gables for dinner and dancing until the early hours.
Inside the dealership, we transformed the space into a vibrant tropical oasis layered in:
- Bold Miami-inspired hues
- Lush, elevated tropical centerpieces
- Custom neon signage moments
- Textural, fashion-forward tablescapes
- High-gloss details to complement the automotive showroom setting
Our design approach embraced the playful spirit of a Sneaker Ball while maintaining elevated sophistication worthy of a seven-figure fundraising night.
Designing for 460 Guests: Elevated Tablescapes with Impact
For 460 seated guests, Pink Wasabi curated immersive tablescapes featuring:
- Layered charger plates with iridescent detailing
- Colored glassware in warm sunset tones
- Gold flatware accents
- Statement-height tropical arrangements
- Custom neon signage integrated throughout the space
The tall tropical centerpieces created visual drama while maintaining sightlines — a crucial balance for large-scale nonprofit galas and fundraising events.
“When design and mission align, the energy in the room becomes unforgettable.”
Immersive Activations by PINK. Marketing & Activations
Beyond the dining experience, the evening featured interactive brand installations designed by PINK. Marketing & Activations:
Customized Tropical Champagne Wall
A lush, tropical-inspired Champagne Wall welcomed guests with a celebratory pour, blending function and photo-worthy design.
Jungle Queen Tropical Wall with Custom Neon
The entry photo-op moment featured the Jungle Queen Tropical Wall, enhanced with custom neon signage to create a high-impact branded backdrop that captured the bold personality of the event.
These activations encouraged social sharing while elevating sponsor visibility — a key component of modern fundraising event strategy.
A Record-Breaking Night for The Underline
According to the event recap:
- Over $1 million raised to benefit The Underline’s programs, operations, and maintenance
- 60 silent auction items secured by lucky bidders, including luxury travel and one-of-a-kind experiences
- 40 sponsors contributed to the evening’s success
- Over $100,000 raised for Park Stewards, an innovative training program supporting previously unhoused adults
The generosity in the room was palpable. From community leaders to corporate partners, the collective commitment to The Underline’s mission and vision was deeply inspiring.
Why Event Design Matters for Fundraising Galas
At Pink Wasabi, we believe intentional event design does more than create beauty — it amplifies impact.
When guests feel immersed in an environment that reflects purpose, energy, and celebration, they give more generously, stay longer, and engage more deeply. Strategic design enhances:
- Sponsor visibility
- Guest experience
- Social media shareability
- Auction participation
- Overall fundraising outcomes
The Underline Sneaker Ball is proof that bold design paired with meaningful mission creates measurable results.
Save the Date: The 2027 Underline Sneaker Ball
Mark your calendars: Saturday, January 23, 2027 will host the next Underline Sneaker Ball. Stay tuned for details and ways to support this transformative organization.
We are incredibly grateful to have contributed to an evening that celebrated community, generosity, and the power of design to elevate purpose-driven events.
Planning a Luxury Fundraising Gala in Miami?
If you’re seeking immersive event design, large-scale tablescapes, tropical installations, or branded activations for your nonprofit gala or corporate fundraiser, Pink Wasabi Events and PINK. Marketing & Activations are ready to bring your vision to life.
