Designing Immersive Event Experiences: Nicklaus Children's Diamond Ball

Merging Strategy, Storytelling, and Event Branding to Raise Millions

Event branding isn’t always at the forefront of my work, but when I get the opportunity to be part of a creative team executing a high-impact event, it’s an exciting challenge—especially when the goal is to raise millions for life-saving pediatric care. Since 2023, I’ve helped shape the visual identity and guest experience for Nicklaus Children's Hospital Foundation’s annual Diamond Ball, a premier fundraising event that brings together donors, families, and healthcare heroes.

For Diamond Ball 2023, themed Great Gatsby, I was tasked with creating a mini-brand that bridged the Forward for Generations campaign with the elegance of a Roaring ’20s celebration. The concept of shining stars became the heart of the event, illuminating the names of resilient young patients in lights, symbolizing their strength and hope. The ceiling installation, custom playing cards, and interactive speakeasy entrance were just a few of the immersive elements designed to make the night unforgettable.

For Diamond Ball 2024, themed Dream With Us, the campaign brand Forward for Generations took center stage. This year’s design transformed the event into a fantasy dreamscape, pairing the campaign’s vibrant graphic elements with ethereal clouds and starlit skies. The goal was to inspire attendees to dream big for the future of pediatric healthcare, reinforcing the hospital foundation’s vision of innovation and care for generations to come. The event’s visual identity was woven into every detail—from environmental graphics to stage design—creating a cohesive, immersive experience that brought the theme to life. This monumental event marked a record-breaking evening as philanthropists from across South Florida raised $6,914,644 to directly benefit patients and families served by Nicklaus Children's Hospital.

Every detail in these events tells a story, and it’s been an honor to bring these stories to life through thoughtful, strategic design. Excited to share a behind-the-scenes look at the process that made these nights so impactful!

👉 See how event design helped bring this night to life below!

Photography and Videography are property of Nicklaus Children’s Hospital.