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Patina Catering chef and founder Joachim Splichal preps for the Governors Ball menu tasting.
The Governors Ball tablescape.
The first course: heirloom beets.
A close-up on the beautiful beets.
The beef entree.
And for dessert: Ochoa Flourless Chocolate Cake.
A closer view of dessert.
Dinner wines: Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc from Sterling Vineyards.
In the hands of Sequoia Productions, the 2016 ball will feature the theme "Nature's Elegance."
The design will key on a "nighttime garden" designed to delight the senses.
Inspired both by the beauty of Old World gardens and the natural grandeur of the California landscape, signature elements will include suspended arbors with canopies of cascading lilac, wisteria and ivy; a winding central cobblestone path illuminated by firefly lighting and bordered by lush florals, plants and grasses; rustic walls draped with trellising vines; and multiple-tiered fountains echoing the soothing sounds of flowing water throughout the venue.
A close-up on floral.
A place setting.
Linens in soft pinks.
The Patina team (from left): corporate executive chef Gregg Wiele, executive pastry chef Frania Mendivil and Splichal.
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