The breathtaking Las Vegas skyline was the perfect backdrop for attendees of the inaugural Gift for Life “Up on the Roof” charity cocktail reception on opening night of Summer 2011 Las Vegas Market, Aug. 1. The SkyView Terrace rooftop event resulted in more than 500 tickets sold, raising more than $12,000 in proceeds benefiting the Design Industries Foundation Fighting Aids.

Buyers, designers, manufacturers, journalists and VIPs gathered on the roof of World Market Center Las Vegas’ Building B for an evening of fun and fundraising, soaking up the sun and Las Vegas party atmosphere.

“I have been the emcee of this event since the late ’90s and the vibe here in Las Vegas is fun and positive,” said Tom Sullivan, host of the Gift for Life event. “People are buying, shopping and partying, just as you would expect. Here at Gift for Life, the mood is also upbeat because it’s all for a good cause.”

The supportive turnout of industry leaders and gift attendees enjoyed cocktails, appetizers, live music and prizes. Among the VIP guests were design stars Roger Thomas and HGTV’s Monica Pedersen. Prizes were also star-worthy, including raffle items such as a Peter Lik photo, autographed Bill Clinton books, and show tickets. An impressive $2,350 was raised selling raffle tickets.

Steven Williams, Director of Community Relations for DIFFA, was pleased with the success of the event. “DIFFA is thrilled that the Las Vegas Market’s first event on behalf of Gift for Life raised more than $12,000 for persons living with HIV/AIDS and we look forward to our next endeavor together. Now more than ever such support is critical to the future of the organizations DIFFA helps to fund.”

Thanks to everyone at Las Vegas World Market for the fun party and wonderful support. We had a blast!