It was supposed to be a top secret “Shhh” party and it certainly lived up to its name. Organisers promised an event like no other in The Bahamas. Partygoers were expecting to be whisked off in limousines to a lavish estate in Lyford Cay, where they would be treated to an evening of fashion, food, drinks and games. But it quickly became clear that all was not well.
Imagine everyone’s surprise when upon arrival at the proposed meeting place, the parking lot was closed and limousines blocked the roadway causing motorists to honk their horns in fury. Attendants had no choice but to park their cars all over the downtown strip. As the limousines blocked Cumberland Street, scantily-clad party goers had to endure the brisk winds whipping at their backs as they awaited the arrival of organisers. Then after a wait that seemed to take an eternity, people were shuttled haphazardly into the lavish limos and taken, to their dismay, to Fort Charlotte.
It was no surprise that people were complaining about the venue. Then to add insult to injury, tents were just being erected as partygoers arrived on the scene after 10pm for an event slated for 8:00pm. In addition, doors to the dirty bathrooms were ajar, revealing patrons using the facilities. Although the bar was already set up and the deejay played a good selection of music, there was no food in sight. There was supposed to be a guest list including doctors, lawyers, teachers and other professionals between the ages of 25-50, instead the fort was filled with a plethora of ‘near’ adolescents, who seemed barely past the age of twenty-one.
“I am so upset over this fiasco. I tried several times to contact the organisers but not one was here when I checked. I want my money back,” said a partygoer.
“This has to be the worst party ever. Organisers should give refunds if they want to reinstate their good name and goodwill in this small society,” said a partygoer.
Many also alleged that there was supposed to be a “speed dating” feature staged at the event where patrons would have a chance to meet and mingle with other eligible single persons. This claim, however, was refuted by Ranard Henfield, organiser of the event. Henfield also went on to apologize to the public for this party faux pas and takes full responsibility for it. “I’d like to apologize to patrons for the late start and for the delay in the opening of the parking lot,” he said ruefully. “Our contractors, including the limousine drivers, caterers, musicians, deejays and others did their part and are not to blame. They were ready for the event.”
By Betty Vedrine, Nassau Guardian Features Reporter
