A dozen of Huntington Beach, CA's prominent social media influencers and bloggers attended an invite-only 'Be Social at Newland Center' event Sunday, September 8. They represent the well-established affluent coastal community in which Newland Center exists. From a vibrant balloon-and-flower photo backdrop ripe for photo taking to a nationally-known sketch artist creating individual attendee keepsake pictures, guests gleefully mixed and mingled while enjoying signature small bites provided by center eateries.
The group was invited to experience and highlight an array of Newland Center’s retailers and eateries by creating content in the form of Instagram stories and posts that portrayed their on-site experiences using the hashtag, #ShopNewlandCenterHB.
Together, attendees toured the center, first popping into popular Luna B. Boutique for doughnut holes and cake pops, photo opps by an oversized decorative floral wall, before receiving complimentary macrame bags containing designer sunglasses, head scarves and merchant gift cards. Artist Sunny Gu worked her magic while carefully painting individual pieces of attendees.
From there, the group stopped by Luna Grill for complimentary beverages and signature small bites.
California restauranteur and chef Andrew Gruel’s Rawbar by Slapfish was up next with a festive seafood tower and handheld lobster rolls, mini bloody Marys, and gift bags touting Slapfish branded t-shirts, specialty olive oil, and hot sauce.
Authentic Mexican eats awaited guests at Miguel’s Jr., including chile relleno burritos, taco salad, tacos, and strawberry lemonade samples. A step-and-repeat background with copious props set the stage for more photo opportunities.
The 'Be Social' event was an ideal way for us to acknowledge the importance social media plays in promoting a shopping center and its offerings,” said Patrick Conway, VP, Market Officer in Los Angeles. “Working with local and regional influencers and bloggers provides an opportunity for authentic messaging to a targeted audience. The Newland Center event was a great way for us to showcase some of the newer retailers as well as those who are staples in the community.
Attendees also were treated to Italian bites and sips — bruschetta, signature martinis, cannolis and Italian cream soda — at Capone's Cucina.
Hand & Stone Massage provided gifts containing a free 50-minute massage or facial that we randomly raffled off.
To further explore Newland Center, visit its website here.
Photos: Luke Westin of New Norml Media