by Sheila Golrang

Hosted by the Swedish-American, the Australian-American, and the South African-American Chambers of Commerce together with the New Zealand-American Association, the organizations offered an evening with wine, beer and chocolate tasting. The diverse crowd of Bay Area professionals was thrilled about the successful event and the opportunities to expand their international network.

Starting with over 100 registered guests, the evening began with wine tasting, sponsored by Cape Ardor, Old Bridge Cellars and Phillips Hill, and beer provided by Spaten. The occasion offered appetizers from the Fairmont Hotel and chocolate from Tcho. More guests arrived as the evening went on and Fairmont's regal Venetian Room filled with a diverse crowd, including the Australian Consul and SACC-SF/SV’s new business member, Gary Hultquist, principal for NewCap Partners, who purchased several raffle tickets to win the Spa treatment for his wife. SACC-SF/SV’s board was represented by CEO Nils Welin from Cypress Security and Anders de Jounge, Managing Director of private investment firm Legend Merchant Group.
After the satisfied guests had enjoyed the chocolate, wine and beer, it was time to announce the raffle winners. With tension in the air, Lillian Stenfeldt, member of SACC-SF/SV, was the lucky winner of two tickets to the San Francisco Symphony. Another happy winner was Marc Payne, non-member, who won the Spa treatment at Chakra Salon & Spa.
The grandeur of the Fairmont Hotel coupled with its impeccable service delivered a truly memorable experience. As the event turned the moments into memories for all, the attendees left with heightened excitement about their new connections. Even though Mr. Hultquist left without the gift certificate from Chakra Salon Spa, he was all smiles, eager to join the next SACC-SF/SV event. The successful and thrilling evening was greatly appreciated, and hopefully, this is the beginning of many beautiful friendships.