Fabulous HIFF Kick-off Party at Montauk's Famous Gurney's Inn
by Evelyn J. Mocbeichel

Driving along Old Montauk Highway, approaching the magnificent Gurney’s Inn Resort, Spa and Conference Center, it was instantly apparent that this was going to be a special night! Blazing across the clear, star-studded sky were crisscrossing spotlights, reminiscent of a Hollywood premiere. This was the perfect commencement for the five-day Hampton International Film Festival (HIFF). Now it is 15th year, the HIFF kick off reception truly sets the tone for the fabulous events, movies and celebrity guests lined up for the thousands of attendees coming to the Hamptons to be part of the festival.

Decorative trees and plantings, courtesy of Marder’s Bridgehampton Nursery, Inc., were artfully placed, landscaping Gurney’s entranceway. A red-carpeted walkway welcomed guests, as if they were attending an award ceremony. Stretch limousines were parked everywhere and Valet Service attendants were busy moving cars and accommodating the constant flow of guests coming to the party. Inside the huge reception area were some of movie land’s best, as filmmakers, producers, writers, directors, actors and guests came out to mingle and celebrate. According to Ingrid Lemme, Marketing and Public Relations Director at Gurney’s Inn, the affair had been sold out, and was one of the hottest tickets in town! It was truly an affair not to be missed!

Invigorating music, never ending passed hors d’oeuvres, platters of delectable foods, and an open bar, continued until midnight. Quite unusual for October, the warm summer-like evening afforded guests the opportunity to walk out on the extensive surrounding terraces.

This was the perfect time to peek at the majestic Atlantic Ocean stretched out in front of Gurney’s breathtaking property. Back inside observers could watch the influx of noted film industry guests coming to be interviewed in the special reception area. Among the Montauk notables attending the party that evening were Gurney’s CEO and General Manager, Paul Monte with Venus Yunker, Legislator, Jay Schneiderman, Chamber of Commerce Director, Laraine Creegan, PJ Monte, of Don Fashions, Montauk Sun Publisher, Ken Guistino and the personable, Ingrid Lemme, Gurney’s Public Relations Director. The ever-busy Ms. Lemme was constantly greeting guests, mingling and snapping some memorable photos of the partygoers! Judging by the warm and wonderful start up party held at Gurney’s, guests would easily be guaranteed a fabulous time attending the Hampton International Film Festival over the next five days ahead!