By: NYABJ Staff
The New York Association of Black Journalists (NYABJ) kicked off the holiday season in style by hosting a sold-out Winter Wonderland holiday party at the Manhattan Mirage. This festive gathering aimed to celebrate Black-owned brands while raising funds for NYABJ's First Take program, which supports high school students interested in journalism. The Manhattan Mirage, one of the few Black-owned event spaces in New York City, provided an ideal backdrop for this joyous occasion. The venue was beautifully decorated to evoke the magic of winter, setting the perfect stage for an evening dedicated to networking and celebration.
NYABJ's commitment to uplifting Black-owned businesses was evident in the event's impressive lineup of sponsors. Notable contributors included Doc’s Cake Shop, ButACake, Villion Cognac, and Good Trouble Bourbon. Doc’s Cake Shop, known for its decadent desserts, brought a sweet touch to the celebration. Founded by the talented pastry chef Doc, the shop specializes in custom cakes that blend creativity with southern flavors.
ButACake, another prominent sponsor, is one of the first Black and female owned to sell Legal baked goods with weed infused. No weed infused products were given out at the party, but for those looking to try some ButACake is located in Atlantic City.
Villion Cognac, a premium brand named after a poet fit right into a room filled with journalists. The spirit is named after François Villon, a medieval poet who lived in Paris in the 1400s, and wrote about love and sex, money trouble, dirty cops, lewd monks, and the thieving rich, according to Sovereign Brands.
Rounding out the sponsors was Good Trouble Bourbon, a brand that pays homage to the legacy of civil rights leader John Lewis. This bourbon is not only crafted with care but also embodies the spirit of resilience and social justice, making it a fitting partner for the NYABJ's mission.
The party brought together both founding members and new members of NYABJ, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. A special toast was made to honor alumni board members, who were recognized for their contributions to the organization and presented with the book "Courage By Design". No holiday gathering would be complete without a bit of fun, and this event featured an ugly sweater contest that delighted attendees. Winners walked away with an array of prizes, including a scented candle, a pressure cooker, and a luxury book bag. As the night unfolded, guests enjoyed delicious drinks, upbeat music, and the warm camaraderie of fellow members, all while supporting a worthy cause.
The Winter Wonderland holiday party was more than just a celebration; it was a testament to the power of community and the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses. With the funds raised, NYABJ will continue to empower the next generation of journalists through its First Take program, ensuring that diverse voices are heard and represented in the media landscape.
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