Dining in the Dark – What to Expect

We are looking forward to seeing you – here’s what to expect!

We are honored to have you join us for this unique, sensory experience. Dining under
blindfold is the main event, but the evening is really about so much more – ability, adaptation and hope! We thought you might have some questions leading up to the event that we could answer and help you prepare for a wonderful evening.

What to expect before the event

Dining in the Dark will be held at the Wisconsin
Club, located at 900 W. Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee.
Guests are welcome to join us for the Reception beginning at 5:30 pm.
Attire: Cocktail / business casual attire

Night of the event

Where will I park?
There will be valet parking at the Wisconsin Club, and a parking lot at the venue or street parking will be available for guests.

What should I look for during the reception time?
Enjoy complimentary appetizers and beverages as you connect with Vision Forward staff and guests. Cash, check or credit cards will be accepted for our Raffle and Spirits/Wine Pull.

Raffle:
We have many great items up for raffle. Be sure to get your tickets promptly, as the raffle closes at 6:30 pm, when dinner starts. Raffle winners will be announced at the end of the event.

Spirits / Wine Pull:
Back by popular demand, we’ve added Wine to our Spirits Pull! Purchase a ticket for $25 during the reception and everyone goes home as the winner of a bottle of spirits or wine
(value of $20 or more)! Find this opportunity early as we traditionally sell out of bottles!
Collect your bottle at the close of the event.

What to expect during dinner?

Guests will make their way into the dining room by 6:30 pm for the start of dinner. Your table number will be on your name tag. Once seated for dinner, we’ll kick off our program with tips to ensure you have a positive dining experience. Guests will be invited to put on blindfolds (that are adjustable) and our emcees will talk you through each of the courses. After dinner, we’ll be inspired as we hear from Vision Forward advocates share their stories of how Vision Forward is helping them to Be Seen for more than just their vision loss.

Tips for Dining in the Dark

1. After you put on your mask your tendency may be to speak louder. Use a normal speaking tone when talking with guests at your table.

2. Prior to receiving your food, orient yourself to your place setting to locate dishes, flatware and stemware. When locating items on the table, such as your wine glass, move your hand “low and slow.” Place your napkin on your lap.

3. Be sure to keep any of your personal items under your chair.

4. To help get the food on your fork, use your knife placed at the edge of the plate to push your food against with your fork.

5. Always return items such as your water glass or utensils to the same location so they can be more easily located.

6. Relax and enjoy!

Looking forward to seeing you on Thursday, May 14!