Hats & High Tea a Hit At Marriott

The newly refurbished Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort & Spa played host one of the Gold Coast’s most glamorous social events yesterday – The 2012 Magic Millions Hats & High Tea.

Over 150 fashion-savvy ladies, racing VIP’s and media descended on the award-winning resort that has just completed a $20 million makeover and was recently voted as one of the top 10 Resorts in Oceania at the 2011 Conde Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice Awards.

Channel Nine’s Alison Ariotti wore over $400,000 worth of Calleija diamonds to host the exclusive event, and Marina Mirage showcased the latest in designer race-day fashion in a stunning parade by the renowned Anna Stokes.

Held in support of the Marriott Resort’s chosen charity, Arundel Park Riding for Disabled, the social soiree was an occasion of high fashion and high stakes with prizes for Best Hat and Best Dressed Lady hotly contested for.

Renowned international award-winning jeweller, John Calleija, donated a stunning diamond necklace valued at $5,800 which made the day of one lucky guest who proudly wore the beautiful piece home around her neck.

Marina Mirage, famous for its international and Australian designer labels, hosted a salon-style showing, giving guests a preview of exceptional collections by iconic legends George Gross Harry Who and Carla Zampatti, along with vibrant new race wear and cocktail wear collections from Howard Showers, Bliss Emporium, Queenspark, John Cavill and Max & Co., all accompanied by exquisite handcrafted headwear designed by Tracy Mackinnon of Hats by Tracy-Mac.

Marriott Executive Chef, Andrew Fraser designed a beautiful selection of decadent high tea items together with a selection of summer salads, gourmet sandwiches, lavender scented macaroons, hand made chocolates filled with cherry ganashe and sunflower cup cakes – a feast enjoyed by all guests as they sipped on glasses of Moet and Chandon.